The show Heated Rivalry aired in December 2025, and since its release, fans have been desperate for more and an Irish short film might just deliver.
Although Ar gCluiche Fein (our own game) was not inspired by Heated Rivalry, the storylines both share the challenging journey of being gay in sports.
Homosexuality remains largely stigmatised within the sporting world, but shows that focus on this topic is helping to bring attention to the problem.
Ar gCluiche Fein began filming in late 2024, with the short film’s world premiere to be shown at Filmpride this Saturday 14th of February. Filmpride is an annual event to showcase independent queer cinema from around the world, this is a huge achievement for An gCluiche Fein.
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The short film, which was written and directed by Medb Johnstone, follows the story of a GAA footballer who is struggling to separate his relationships from his sport.
The film is also as Gaeilge (in Irish), which gives the film a unique, powerful identity. The plot focuses on themes of sexuality, community and what it really means to be a part of a GAA Club, an experience many Irish people are familiar with.
Ar gCluiche Fein was filmed in a series of locations around Dublin, and specific scenes were filmed in the village of Donard in County Wicklow.
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The cast includes Cormac De Bhal as Tomas, Oisin Thompson as Sean, Paddy C.Courtney as An Banisteoir (coach), Donncha Crowley as Pat and Gearoid Kavanagh as Cian.
This is a very exciting Irish project and should be highly praised.
Words by Nia Hayden