Buckle up, movie buffs—because Colin Farrell is about to bring a whole new level of danger to the priesthood in an electrifying action-thriller that's sure to spark debates and keep you on the edge of your seat!
We're diving into the exciting world of 'Ordained,' a fresh take on faith, crime, and redemption, where Farrell will take center stage as Father Roy Craig. Produced by the dynamic Russo Brothers—those masterminds behind blockbuster hits like the Avengers series—under their AGBO banner, this project promises high-stakes thrills that blend gritty storytelling with heart-pounding action.
Drawing inspiration from the comic book world, 'Ordained' is adapted from the Bad Ideas Comics title of the same name, crafted by the talented team of Robert Venditti and Raul Allen, along with Antonio Del Hoyo and Trevor Hairsine. If you're not familiar with comics like this, think of it as a modern twist on classic tales where heroes grapple with moral dilemmas in a dangerous underworld—much like how characters in films such as 'The Departed' navigate the blurred lines between good and evil in organized crime settings.
But here's where it gets controversial... According to reports from The Hollywood Reporter, which broke the news of Farrell's casting, Father Roy's story kicks off when he administers last rites to a powerful mob boss on the brink of death. Miraculously, the boss pulls through—but not before spilling his guts about a lifetime of heinous crimes during confession. Suddenly, Father Roy becomes the target of a ruthless army: hitmen hired to eliminate loose ends, crooked police officers looking to protect their shady dealings, and hardened gangsters all sent by the mob boss desperate to keep his secrets buried.
And this is the part most people miss—Father Roy isn't just any ordinary man of the cloth. He harbors a hidden violent past that transforms him from a seemingly vulnerable target into a force to be reckoned with. Imagine a character like John Wick, who appears unassuming at first glance but unleashes a storm of skill when pushed to the limit. This layers the plot with intriguing questions about redemption, forgiveness, and whether someone with a bloody history can truly serve as a beacon of faith. It's a bold choice that could divide audiences: Is it empowering to see a flawed hero, or does it undermine the sanctity of religious roles? We love how it adds depth, making you root for someone who's both saint and sinner.
Farrell isn't stopping at starring—he's also stepping into the producer role alongside his sister, Claudine Farrell, through their production company, Chapel Place. This family-driven approach adds a personal touch, reminiscent of how sibling teams like the Wachowskis have shaped iconic franchises with their shared vision.
Penning the script is none other than Derek Kolstad, the genius behind the 'John Wick' series. With his knack for crafting intense, action-packed narratives, expect 'Ordained' to deliver pulse-racing sequences that feel authentic and explosive. The director hasn't been announced yet, but whoever it is will have big shoes to fill in bringing this high-octane tale to life.
For comic book fans eager to dive in first, the first issue of 'Ordained' hits shelves on December 10th. It's a great way to get a sneak peek into the world before the movie adaptation rolls out.
In the meantime, you can catch Farrell in his current Netflix gem, 'Ballad of a Small Player,' where he shines in a different kind of dramatic role.
For more scoop on the latest in movies, head over to our dedicated section (https://www.rte.ie/entertainment/movies/).
What do you think—does mixing violence with a priest's backstory make for a compelling hero, or is it too risky? Could this film challenge your views on forgiveness and morality? Drop your opinions in the comments below; we'd love to hear if you're team for this twist or if it crosses a line for you!
