Four Letters of Love: Brosnan and Bonham Carter romance filmed in Co Antrim hits cinemas this summer

Pierce Brosnan on set in Ballycastle, County Antrim.

(Images: Anne Kelly)

Vertigo Releasing has announced the upcoming release of Four Letters of Love, a sweeping romantic drama adapted from Niall Williams’ internationally bestselling novel.

Starring acclaimed British and Irish actors Pierce Brosnan, Helena Bonham Carter, and Gabriel Byrne, the film will premiere in cinemas across the UK and Ireland on 18 July 2025.

The feature was filmed extensively on location across County Antrim, with key scenes shot in Ballymena, Ballycastle, and Carrickfergus.

The old farmhouse in Ballymena used for filming

Locals may recognise familiar sights including an old farmhouse on Moorfields Road, Ballymena, and The Diamond in Ballycastle, where crews were spotted during filming earlier this year.

Production also took place in Woodburn Forest, Carrickfergus, showcasing Northern Ireland’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Filming at The Diamond in Ballycastle

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Polly Steele (Let Me Go, Elton John: Tantrums & Tiaras), Four Letters of Love tells a lyrical and emotionally stirring tale of fate, family, and the endurance of love. The film is produced by Debbie Gray (Good Luck to You, Leo Grande), Douglas Cummins (Let Me Go), and Martina Niland (Once, Sing Street), and is backed by Northern Ireland Screen, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, and WRAP.

The cast brings together some of the most celebrated talents in British and Irish cinema. Pierce Brosnan (James Bond franchise, Mamma Mia) plays William, a father who upends his family’s life after a divine revelation.

Helena Bonham Carter (The Crown, Harry Potter) appears as the poetic and intuitive mother of Isabel, while Gabriel Byrne (Hereditary, War of the Worlds) portrays her father.

Rising stars Fionn O’Shea (Normal People, Dating Amber) and Ann Skelly (The Nevers, Kissing Candice) play Nicholas and Isabel—two young lovers whose destinies intertwine across time, tragedy, and chance.

“Niall Williams’ debut novel is beguiling, and utterly irresistible,” said producer Douglas Cummins. “It’s an enormous privilege to be transposing it to the screen so that new audiences can join the scores of existing fans from many countries across the world who have already succumbed to its countless charms and delights.”

Producer Debbie Gray added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing this beautiful piece of work from writer Niall Williams and director Polly Steele to the screen. A seminal piece of Irish literature and I couldn’t be more pleased with the cast and creative team that have joined us on this journey.”

First published in 1997 and translated into over 30 languages, Four Letters of Love has captivated readers around the world. Williams himself adapted the story for the screen, maintaining the novel’s lyrical prose and tender heart.

The film explores themes of faith, grief, passion, and the serendipitous nature of love. As Nicholas and Isabel’s lives unfold separately—shaped by personal loss and the decisions of their parents—they are ultimately drawn together in a moment that feels nothing short of miraculous.

The production’s ties to Northern Ireland are significant, not only through its filming locations but also via the support of Northern Ireland Screen, which continues to play a pivotal role in bringing high-profile projects to the region.

As anticipation builds, Four Letters of Love is poised to join the ranks of celebrated Irish literary adaptations, combining a powerful narrative with stunning landscapes and world-class performances.

The film features original music by Anne Nikitin, with an original song performed by actor and musician Johnny Flynn, and contributions from an award-winning crew including cinematographer Damien Elliot and editor Chris Gill ACE.