What was your reaction when you first found out that Rupert Grint was cast as Malachy? Did you have any preconceptions about him, and did he fulfill your expectations?
Robert: I was delighted to hear Rupert was on board, and I tend not to expect anything from a person until I have met them in person and come to know them a little bit; so no preconceptions further than the knowledge of who he was and what he had done. He is a dynamite package to have in a film though, because not only did he give a fantastic performance in the film, but he’s also a profoundly sweet, affable character to have around, and his international profile will undoubtedly help to draw more interest to the film.

Luke and Malachy are best friends. Did you have time to bond with Rupert, considering the tight filming schedule — did you go out together, did you discuss the relationship between Malachy and Luke and what they’re going through?
Robert: Of course we had time to bond, and a grueling schedule on a film set would mean that you would be in the company of fellow cast and crew for 10-12 hours, 5 days a week; and since none of us out of the three were indigenous to Belfast, we would spend the weekends together too. So I’m happy and lucky to say I made some great friends on the shoot. And The Rotterdam was a bar which became our local after we used it as a location! That’s “The Lifeboat” in the film, great spot!