THE shooting of an £11 million film has brought a financial windfall to the Sixmilebridge area of Co Clare.
Hotels, rented accommodation and guest houses have been taken over by the 80 actors and crew of Serpent's Kiss. The 16th century period film is being shot at Mount Ivers, a Georgian mansion near Sixmilebridge.
About 300 extras are taking part in the production, set in England.
The film stars Pete Postlethwaite, who was nominated for an Oscar in his role as Giuseppe Conlon in The Name of the Father, and Greta Scacchi who currently stars in White Mischief and co-starred in Presumed Innocent. Richard E. Grant, who appeared with Bruce Willis in Hudson Ha is also taking part.
The film is being made by John Boorman's Marlin Films. The producer is Robert Jones of the award winning The Usual Suspects.
Mount Ivers was chosen after a search in several countries when it was seen by the film makers in the book Stately Homes of Ireland. Security is strict and media and sightseers are not being allowed near the filming.
The production, according to the chairman of Sixmilebridge parish council, Mr Kevin Hoban, has given employment to local tradesmen and people acting as extras.
Filming began earlier this month and continues until August 23rd.