A first look image from the upcoming film Saipan – based on Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy's infamous clash ahead of the 2002 World Cup – has been revealed, starring Cork actor Éanna Hardwicke as Keane, and Steve Coogan as McCarthy.

The film, described by Variety as a 'comedy biopic', is also set to feature Irish actors Alex Murphy, Jamie Beamish, and Peter McDonald, alongside Alice Lowe and Harriet Cains.

Principal photography for Saipan – directed by Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’Sa – began in Belfast in August.

The official synopsis, as reported by Variety, is as follows:

"On the surface, the feud was all about standards, but deep down it was a hugely emotive story of two men whose rivalry and contempt came to surpass the sport they loved. This is the definitive account of one of the most fractious falling-outs in the history of sport.”

Steve Coogan – who has been nominated for two Academy Awards, and has won multiple BAFTA Awards – has recently appeared in the likes of Joker: Folie à Deux, The Reckoning (playing Jimmy Savile), and The Lost King.

IFTA Award-winning actor Éanna Hardwicke, meanwhile, has featured in the likes of Normal People, Vivarium, The Sixth Commandment, Lakelands, and A Very Royal Scandal. He also recently starred in Irish singer-songwriter Junior Brother's music video for 'Take Guilt'.

Ireland and UK rights for Saipan have been acquired by Wildcard Distribution and Vertigo Releasing – with plans to release Saipan to cinemas in 2025.

See the first look image of Steve Coogan and Éanna Hardwicke in Saipan below:

Exclusive: First look at Steve Coogan as Mick McCarthy and Éanna Hardwicke as Roy Keane in SAIPAN, about Keane's infamous 2002 World Cup exit. Cannot wait to see this. pic.twitter.com/tKwIetzKQO

— Alex Ritman (@alexritman) October 30, 2024