Fright night at the cinema

Monaghan actors, Declan Reynolds and Matthew McMahon, who have trod the boards together since their local youth theatre days, have had all their Halloweens come at once, as they both feature in an upcoming gothic horror, set to hit Irish cinema screens on November 6.

For both actors, ‘The Restoration of Grayson Manor’ marks a significant career milestone. Matthew landed his first feature-length film role after years building experience across theatre, television and short films.

Declan was initially cast in a minor part in the film, which was shot at the atmospheric Stradbally Hall in Co Laois. However, during a cast read-through, Glenn McQuaid (co-writer and director) asked him to fill in for an absent actor, an opportunity that ultimately changed the course of the production for him.

“I had read the script the night before so I knew the character and I just had fun with it.”

The following day he was invited back to audition for the larger role and, on his 44th birthday, received a phone call from the director confirming he had secured the part.

“I was ecstatic. I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “I went from six days to 26 days on set. I was suddenly working in scenes with all of the lead actors and it became a real masterclass.”

Declan plays Lee, a healthcare professional who becomes a confidant and caregiver to the film’s troubled central character.

“At its heart, it’s really a story about somebody searching for love and care that they didn’t receive growing up.”

Although The Restoration of Grayson Manor is firmly rooted in the horror genre, Declan believes audiences will find far more than scares within the film.

“What attracted me to the script was the emotional story underneath it. The mother-son relationship is really powerful.”

Matthew, meanwhile, plays John, a character he describes as a man leading a double life who becomes entangled in a situation that rapidly spirals beyond his control.

“He’s probably the sort of man who has a wife and children at home, but this other side of his life is something he keeps hidden. He finds himself in a terrible predicament that’s awkward, dangerous and completely out of control.”

Like Declan, Matthew found himself immersed in the unique atmosphere of Stradbally Hall, joining the production just days before filming began.

“It all happened very quickly,” he recalled. “I think I signed the contract on a Tuesday or Wednesday and was on set by the Friday. Stradbally Hall was the perfect venue for this kind of movie. It’s every bit as spooky as it looks on screen.”

For both actors, the setting became an unforgettable part of the experience.

“I don’t think you could recreate that house as a set,” Declan said. “It’s absolutely breathtaking and was the perfect location for the film.”

The production also reunited the pair professionally. Having previously shared local stages in Monaghan, Declan recommended Matthew for a role in the film after seeing his performance in The Memory of Water.

“When I got the bigger role I suggested Glenn have a look at him. Thankfully he loved Matthew and he got the part.”

The film marked Matthew’s first feature-length movie role, an experience he said provided a steep but rewarding learning curve.

“I remember one of my first solo shots and realising very quickly this wasn’t a small-budget short film,” he laughed. “We were playing in the big leagues. It was a fantastic experience and I learned a lot.”

Matthew also spoke warmly of working alongside actor Chris Colfer and director Glenn McQuaid.

“When you’re doing a project like that it feels very family-oriented,” he said. “You get incredibly close to people very quickly. Everyone was very supportive and I felt able to explore the character and bring my own ideas to the role.”

Since filming wrapped, both actors have joined the cast and crew on the international festival circuit, attending screenings in Texas, Dublin and Glasgow ahead of the Irish release.

“It’s been great bringing the film to audiences and seeing their reactions,” Matthew said. “To be able to experience all of that has been very special.”

After more than 26 years pursuing acting opportunities, Declan said the project has already inspired other performers.

“You just keep showing up, keep auditioning and don’t give up. Sometimes all it takes is the right person seeing something in you. It’s a dream come true,” he said. “I still can’t quite believe it.”

The Restoration of Grayson Manor opened in Irish cinemas on November 6 and has been submitted for the Irish Film and Television Awards (IFTAs) in the categories of: Film, Director, Writer, Supporting Actor (Declan Reynolds), Director of Photography, Production Designer, Editor, Original Score, Sound and VFX.