Mayo screenwriter plays key role in new film about stuntman's tragic death

A Mayo screenwriter has played a major role in the soon-to-be-released film, 'One Last Show in Taghmon.'

Balla-based James Vincent was executive producer of the movie, which explores the tragic death of stuntman, John Condron, and the events leading up to it.

John was among a group of stuntmen performing risky acts during the 1980's period.

He performed a jaw-dropping stunt by free-falling from the four storey Taghmon Castle Tower, Co. Wexford, in mid-August 1982.

To protect John during his fall, safety boxes and padding were strategically arranged around the drop zone.

John felt uneasy that sunny afternoon. Something didn't feel right.

But because of the already gathered crowd of spectators and other external pressure, John ignored his 'gut' feeling. He decided to go ahead and perform the stunt.

Sadly, that decision led to the end of his life.

Alan Walsh is both the writer and director behind the 'Taghmon' story.

He is a professional stuntman and has worked extensively as such over the past decades. He was also a colleague of John Condron.

The Mel Gibson movie, Braveheart, is just one example where Alan worked as the stunt 'coordinator.

"One Last Show in Taghmon" elicited the interest of six-time Oscar nominee, Jim Sheridan. Jim also came onboard the project as an 'executive producer'.

While filming at the castle, some of the residents stood exactly where they were on the day of the fatal accident.

They even informed the directors that they needed to adjust their shooting position for a more accurate retelling of the event.

The help and support from the local Wexford community is borne out by a humorous experience.

After moving to another shooting location, the director could not find the cast or crew.

Eventually, he found them inside a quaint house that was painted purple. They were drinking tea and eating cake.

Overwhelmed by the hospitality of a friendly woman in her eighties, they had little choice but to submit to her request.

John Condron's experience is a stark reminder of the importance of listening to our inner voice and prioritizing safety over external pressures.

While we all enjoy watching movies, the 'Taghmon' incident serves as a cautionary tale about the risks and dangers involved in the world of 'stunt performance'.

Although based on 'real events', some scenes were fictionalized for dramatic impact.

The movie is due for public release at the end of next June.