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Ennis-based production company Magpie 6 Media has started the development of a new animated project, drawing deeply from Irish mythology.
With a particular focus on bringing Irish legends to life in a modern and accessible way this exciting venture is expected to hit screens by 2026, with both television and feature film plans in the works
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At the heart of the project is an ambitious animation series that takes inspiration from Ireland’s rich mythological heritage. The central character, inspired by the legendary Irish hero Cú Chulainn, promises to capture the imagination of both Irish and global audiences.
The show’s creators, based in Ennis, spoke passionately about their desire to introduce these age-old stories to a wider audience. “We’re trying to tap into something that’s really special, but it’s important not to make it too ‘Irish’ for international appeal,” said Clifford Parrott, animator with Magpie 6 Media. “The challenge is balancing the Irish identity without alienating a global audience. Yes, there will be some Irish language, but not so much that it gets in the way of reaching broader audiences. But there will be an Irish language version for those interested”.
While the story takes inspiration from Irish mythology, the creative team is keen to ensure that it resonates beyond Ireland’s shores. “We want to make sure the stories are universally relatable,” the creator added. “That means taking these ancient tales and weaving them into a narrative that anyone can connect with, regardless of where they’re from”.
The central character, based on Cú Chulainn, begins as a young man with incredible strength and powers, yet unaware of his true heritage. The plot unfolds as he discovers his identity and the dark forces that are trying to manipulate him for their own gain.
“The basic first story is that he doesn’t know who he is. He’s being hidden by his family for reasons he doesn’t understand. He’s really strong and reckless, but has no idea of his true purpose,” said Cliff. “He has to discover who he is, learn to control his powers, and ultimately save humanity from an evil force”.
While the project has roots in ancient mythology, the show’s creators are working hard to make sure it feels fresh and exciting for modern audiences. “We’re drawing from Irish mythology to create a superhero narrative that will speak to the current generation,” said the creator. “Cú Chulainn, for instance, is the original Hulk. He goes into his warp spasm and just kills everybody. It’s the ultimate superhero transformation.”
The creative team has also placed a strong emphasis on animation style. Drawing inspiration from the success of Netflix’s Klaus, the show will blend 2D characters with 3D backgrounds to create a visually stunning world. “We want to bring something fresh to the screen with 2D characters in a 3D world,” said the creator. “It’s something visually exciting, and it will keep the story engaging.”
Music plays a critical role in the project’s atmosphere, and the team has already begun collaborating with local musicians from Ennis and other parts of Clare to incorporate contemporary Irish music. “We want music from current bands, from all different styles. It’s important that the music feels modern, not just traditional Irish music,” said the creator. “There are a lot of talented musicians in Ennis and across Clare, and we’re looking to bring some of that energy into the project”.
The involvement of the local community is crucial, as the project aims to give back to Ennis. “This project has the potential to shine a spotlight on Ennis and Clare in a way that could bring international attention to the area,” said Cliff. “We want to create something with a local heart but a global reach. This isn’t just about telling an Irish story, it’s about making it something the world can see and appreciate.”
Once financing is secured, the team plans to start full production, with a target release date of late 2026. The project’s scope includes both a television series and a feature film. With the goal of achieving global recognition at prestigious events like the Annie Awards and the Oscars, the team is committed to producing a high-quality project that can stand out on the world stage.
“We’re getting there,” the creator said. “Once we know we have the green light, we’ll start pushing forward. Until then, we’re sharing behind-the-scenes content and staying active on social media to keep the public engaged.”
For Ennis and County Clare, this project represents not just an exciting new chapter for local animation but a chance to showcase the richness of Irish culture to the rest of the world. With a blend of mythology, animation, and local talent, this project is set to make waves both at home and abroad.
