Original article published on HotPress.com
Finn House Films is proud to announce the release of the music video for “Bright Star,” a poignant and visually stunning piece directed by Irish filmmaker Finn Boylan. The video accompanies the latest single by composer and harpist Emer Kenny, which tells the powerful stories of Ukrainian women who fled the war and have since resettled in Dundalk, Ireland.
“Bright Star” is more than just a song; it’s an emotive tribute to the resilience and struggles of those impacted by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Developed during Kenny’s residency at the Táin Theatre in 2023, the song brings the experiences of Ukrainian women to the forefront, shedding light on their journey and the challenges they continue to face.
The music video, directed by Finn Boylan, adds a compelling visual narrative to the haunting single. It features three Ukrainian women, Iryna, Yara, and Maryna, who shared their stories with Kenny and appear as audience members in the video. The video also stars contemporary dancer Polina from Donetsk and harpist Rosie Murphy—Emer’s daughter—performing in An Táin Theatre, creating a delicate balance between art and the harsh realities of war.
Boylan’s direction skillfully interweaves these performances with frontline footage from Ukraine, which he personally filmed. As a documentary filmmaker renowned for his work in conflict zones around the world, Boylan’s inclusion of these scenes offers a stark contrast to the ethereal beauty of the dance and harp performance, serving as a chilling reminder of the brutality that continues to unfold in Ukraine.
The video for “Bright Star” was produced with the help of John Murphy, who captured Emer Kenny’s distinctive harp playing and emotional vocal performance. The juxtaposition of the serene and the severe in the video creates a powerful commentary on the impact of war, making it a must-watch for anyone moved by the ongoing struggles in Ukraine.
Finn House Films is honored to have played a role in bringing this important piece of work to life. The collaboration between Emer Kenny and Finn Boylan has resulted in a music video that not only resonates emotionally but also serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing conflict and the stories that must continue to be told.
You can watch the music video for “Bright Star” below: