Aidan Gillen Leads Eccentric Troupe in Irish Road Movie 'Trad'

Key facts

• Aidan Gillen plays the character Harky, a free-spirited chancer.
• Megan Nic Fhionnghaile stars as Shona McAnally, a young fiddle player.
• The film is directed by Lance Daly, known for 'Black ’47' and 'Kisses'.
• 'Trad' premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh in 2025.
• The film won the audience prize at the Galway Film Fleadh.
• Sarah Greene and Peter Coonan play Shona's parents.
• Cathal Coade Palmer appears as a guitarist named Ray.

A Road Trip Through Irish Tradition and Rebellion

Lance Daly's latest film, 'Trad', embarks on an unlikely journey through the Irish road movie genre, a territory often constrained by the island's geography. The director, previously known for 'Black ’47' and 'Kisses', crafts a crowd-pleasing narrative that culminates in a vibrant traditional music session. While some characterizations are noted as one-dimensional, the film is lauded for its ability to send audiences out on a high note. The story centers on Shona McAnally, a gifted young fiddle player from Gaoth Dobhair in the Donegal Gaeltacht, portrayed by striking newcomer Megan Nic Fhionnghaile. Shona appears to have lost her passion for traditional music, an estrangement linked to tensions with her mother, played by Sarah Greene in a feisty performance. These familial dynamics, a familiar theme for many, form the emotional core before an eccentric troupe of travellers disrupts their lives. Trouble, or perhaps escape, arrives in the form of a wandering band of eccentrics, led by a distinctively garbed Aidan Gillen. His character, Harky, a free-spirited chancer, poses a question to Shona: "Do you want to be in a band?" Her initial, defiant reply – "Sorry, I f**king hate trad" – sets the stage for her eventual departure with her younger brother, Mickey (Dallán Woods), and the irritating new companions.

The Allure of the 'Alternative' Lifestyle

The travellers themselves are presented as a complex, perhaps even pretentious, group, embodying a self-important aspect of "alternative" lifestyles. Their actions, such as nailing a phone to a car dashboard, are questioned as acts of radical rebellion. Nevertheless, they offer Shona a respite from her teenage anxieties and, as the narrative unfolds, a potential path back to the music she secretly loves. This encounter sparks a series of picaresque adventures as the group moves through picturesque locations. The film functions as a rite-of-passage story for Shona, with Nic Fhionnghaile, in her first major acting role, convincingly portraying a reluctant acceptance of compromise. The relationship between the gang and their new disciple generates agreeable, if sometimes quirky, experiences. Supporting roles add depth to the narrative. Peter Coonan appears as Shona's father, and Dallán Woods returns as Mickey, a sharp child who understands the story's trajectory. Cathal Coade Palmer is touching as a more affluent child with a talent for acoustic guitar. Sarah Greene's portrayal of the abandoned mother draws parallels to Frances McDormand's role in 'Almost Famous', with the hippies in 'Trad' effectively kidnapping her child.

Aidan Gillen's Role as the Free-Spirited Leader

Aidan Gillen's character, Harky, serves as the catalyst for Shona's journey. He is depicted as a charismatic, free-spirited individual who leads his band of followers, described as "hippy-dippy," on their travels. Their ethos revolves around the "session," a concept that resonates with Shona, despite her initial resistance to traditional music. Harky's troupe is not solely focused on music; they represent a lifestyle choice that contrasts sharply with Shona's upbringing. Their "alternative" ways, while sometimes viewed critically, provide Shona with the freedom to explore her own identity and musical inclinations. Gillen's presence adds a layer of established talent to the film, anchoring the more unconventional elements of the narrative. His portrayal of Harky is central to the film's exploration of rebellion, self-discovery, and the magnetic pull of a different way of life.

Musical Heartbeat and Festival Acclaim

Ultimately, the musical sequences are what truly elevate 'Trad'. Director Lance Daly masterfully cuts to the rhythms of the performances, capturing the audience's joy and the players' intense concentration. The film's ability to convincingly convey the energy of traditional Irish music is a significant achievement. 'Trad' premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh in 2025, where it was met with enthusiastic applause. The film's vibrant musical performances and crowd-pleasing narrative resonated strongly with the festival audience, ultimately securing it the event's audience prize. The film's success at the Fleadh suggests its appeal lies in its energetic presentation of traditional music, combined with a relatable coming-of-age story. It is a film best experienced, according to critics, with a similarly enthusiastic crowd, mirroring the celebratory atmosphere of its premiere.

A New Voice in Irish Cinema

The film is particularly notable for introducing Megan Nic Fhionnghaile, a talent discovered from Gaoth Dobhair. Her performance as Shona McAnally marks her debut in a significant acting role, having never before participated in a school play. Her portrayal of a young musician grappling with familial expectations and personal desires is central to the film's success. Nic Fhionnghaile's ability to convey Shona's journey from estrangement to reluctant acceptance is praised. The narrative, while sometimes slow to establish a cohesive rhythm, ultimately channels a sweet, crowd-pleasing story through the dynamic power of traditional Irish music. 'Trad' taps into a timeless theme: teenagers finding their voice through song. By grounding this universal narrative in the specific, vibrant context of traditional Irish music, the film offers a fresh and engaging take on the genre, marking a significant contribution to contemporary Irish cinema.

The bottom line

• Aidan Gillen stars as Harky, a leader of an eccentric travelling troupe.
• Newcomer Megan Nic Fhionnghaile delivers a breakout performance as a young fiddle player.
• Director Lance Daly's 'Trad' blends a road movie narrative with traditional Irish music.
• The film premiered and won the audience prize at the Galway Film Fleadh in 2025.
• Sarah Greene and Peter Coonan provide strong support as the protagonist's parents.
• 'Trad' explores themes of rebellion, family, and finding one's artistic voice.