Caitríona Balfe to Star in Colm Tóibín Adaptation Film

The feature film is set to premiere at the upcoming Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival, positioning the prestige drama firmly on the awards-season radar.

Cast and Creative Team Behind the Adaptation

Alongside Outlander and Belfast star Caitríona Balfe—the production features an ensemble cast. Fred Hechinger of Gladiator II and Thelma plays Mike, while Ebon Moss-Bachrach of The Bear and The Fantastic Four: First Steps stars as Lester, according to production disclosures. The cast also includes Kit Connor of Heartstopper and Warfare, alongside D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai of Reservation Dogs and Warfare, who appears as a mysterious stranger, as reported by VIP Magazine.

Behind the camera, director Andrew Haigh—known for his work on All of Us Strangers and 45 Years—adapted Tóibín’s story himself, bringing another prominent work by the Enniscorthy author to the big screen.

Plot Details and Production Locations

Filmed on location in Alberta, Canada, A Long Winter is set in the mountains as autumn draws to a close and a family prepares for the long winter ahead, according to production notes.

Festival Premieres and Release Outlook

The film is scheduled for dual festival bows this autumn, taking in a Canadian premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and a New York premiere at the New York Film Festival. However, a specific release date for Irish cinemas has yet to be announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who directs A Long Winter?

The film is directed by Andrew Haigh, who also adapted Colm Tóibín’s short story for the screen.

Who stars in the film adaptation?

The cast is led by Caitríona Balfe, Fred Hechinger, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Kit Connor, and D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai.

Where was A Long Winter filmed?

The movie was filmed on location in Alberta, Canada, representing a mountain setting.