Immersive cinema experiences have become a major trend in the entertainment industry, with fans eagerly stepping into the recreated worlds of popular movies and TV shows. However, one unlikely film is gaining attention in the immersive cinema world: Martin McDonagh’s Irish comedy, “The Banshees of Inisherin.”
Luke Mee, the owner of Mee’s Bar in Kilkerrin, Ireland, has taken the concept of immersive cinema to a new level by painstakingly rebuilding the iconic pub set from the film. Mee was initially inspired to recreate JJ Devine’s, the traditional pub where the friendship between characters Padraic and Colm goes sour, after visiting the film set on the island of Achill. When he learned that the set pieces were sitting in his wife’s sister’s backyard, thanks to her husband who had worked as security on the film, Mee decided to bring them home instead of letting them go to waste.
Over the course of several months, with the help of his friends, Mee reconstructed the entire pub using images from the film as a guide. While the original set lacked electricity and functioning beer pumps, Mee’s version includes these modern amenities, giving visitors an authentic pub experience. Even the beer taps have been sourced from Guinness owner Diageo to add to the historical accuracy of the project.
The resurrected JJ Devine’s has generated a storm of interest, attracting visitors and tourists from nearby Galway. Mee’s hope is to now attract the cast of the film to give their endorsement to the pub. Brendan Gleeson and Pat Shortt have already expressed interest and Colin Farrell’s endorsement would be a major coup. However, there is one celebrity that Mee has his eyes set on: Taylor Swift. During a conversation with McDonagh, Swift expressed her love for the Banshees pub and mentioned that she would support any effort to recreate it. Mee hopes that by extending an invitation to Swift, he can entice her to visit Kilkerrin and enjoy a free drink at JJ Devine’s.
The recreated pub has not only captured the attention of fans and tourists but has also brought a sense of pride to the small town of Kilkerrin. As a non-tourist area, the influx of visitors has been surprising but welcomed. Mee has even included a special touch to maintain authenticity by introducing a “resident donkey,” Holly, owned by one of the regulars at Mee’s Bar.
The project was kept strictly under wraps until its unveiling in June, adding to the excitement and intrigue surrounding the recreated pub. Mee’s dedication to preserving the film’s legacy and giving fans an immersive experience has paid off, as the Banshees of Inisherin pub has become a must-visit destination for cinema lovers.
The Hollywood Reporter had the opportunity to visit the recreated pub and explore the attention to detail that went into the project. The wooden beams for the roof, window panes, and pictures on the walls have all been faithfully replicated, creating an atmosphere that transports visitors back to the film’s setting in 1923. The authenticity and historical accuracy of the recreated pub have impressed both fans and industry professionals.
As the word spreads about the Banshees of Inisherin pub, Mee hopes to continue attracting visitors and potentially even host events related to the film. The recreated pub stands as a testament to the enduring impact of cinema and the power it holds to bring communities together. By recreating the pub, Mee has not only preserved a piece of film history but also created a unique and immersive experience for fans and tourists alike.
In a world where technology dominates and virtual experiences are becoming increasingly popular, the Banshees of Inisherin pub stands as a reminder of the magic that can be created through physical spaces. The recreated pub offers a tangible connection to the film and its characters, allowing visitors to step into their world and experience it firsthand.
Luke Mee’s dedication and passion for cinema have transformed his pub into a living tribute to “The Banshees of Inisherin.” As the project continues to gain recognition and attract visitors from near and far, Mee’s Bar stands as a testament to the profound impact that films can have on individuals and communities. The Banshees of Inisherin pub is proof that cinema can transcend the screen and come to life in unexpected and extraordinary ways.