Tara O’Callaghan is an Outsider
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Director Tara O’Callaghan chooses Outsider for her first UK representation.
The thought provoking and emotive storytelling director Tara O’Callaghan has joined Outsider, her first representation outside of Ireland.
Blending technique, visual flair and powerful narratives, O’Callaghan is a star in the making. Having made her name with Motherland in her native Ireland O’Callaghan is ready to bring the prowess that has made her such an exciting name over the pond to the British market.
Born in Dublin and raised between Serbia and Ireland, O’Callaghan grew up caught between two worlds. Surrounded by stories that crossed borders, this perspective would later shape her instinct and passion for honest, immersive storytelling. She has since directed work for brands including Jameson, RTÉ and Sport Ireland, and made her mark with the bold documentary Call Me Mommy, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and earned numerous awards for its unflinching portrayal of a mature sex worker. The project is currently being developed into a Screen Ireland–funded narrative feature with Motherland. Her latest short, No Time Wasters, has received multiple nominations for its powerful depiction of the sex-for-rent crisis in the rental market.
Speaking about the decision to join up with Outsider, O’Callaghan said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Outsider and their incredible roster of directors who are pushing things forward in this rapidly changing industry. What excites me is that Outsider isn’t stuck in the old, they’re embracing the shift towards work that’s agile, bold and genuinely plugged in. This feels like the right place for me and the kind of films I want to make.
For me, this feels like the perfect home to push my storytelling further, work that’s visceral, character-driven and grounded in authenticity. I can’t wait to collaborate with their talented team and add to their legacy of making films that aren’t just seen, but felt.”
Outsider EP Otis Denison and Bella Murray (Partner) mirrored O’Callaghan's excitement. “Ever since industry legend Daf (GABHA Studios) told us we had to meet Tara for ourselves we were hooked. From the first zoom it was clear that Tara is plugged into culture and knows exactly what stories she wants to tell, not shying away from the heavy stuff alongside some of the lighter work that put her on the map. Her work is honest, interesting and leaves you wanting more and it’s no surprise she already has plenty of personal projects in development that will only enhance her already impressive reputation. To be Tara’s first home in the UK is a real honour and a challenge nonetheless. We know how tough the market is right now but having nimble, hungry and ambitious talent like Tara ready to work enables us to focus on the new variety of content briefs and socials coming through alongside the traditional TVCs. We want it all!”
O’Callaghan is represented by Outsider in the UK and Amsterdam and has a new home in the works in Ireland, an exciting and refreshing addition to the market.
