Directed and written by Maurice O’Carroll, Swing Bout is a crime-thriller set in the world of boxing, specifically women’s boxing, with each fighter waiting for their next opportunity to enter the ring. The film’s title comes from the boxing world and is described in the press notes: “Swing Bout – A series of quick knockouts at a boxing event can cause a gap in the TV schedule, and these holes are plugged with Swing Bouts. The swing bout boxers may or may not fight, but they are expected to put their lives on the line at a moment’s notice.”
Short Synopsis: Set backstage at a major boxing event, a young boxer is plunged into a tumultuous journey from the dressing room to her ring walk in a night of deceit, betrayal, and life-altering decisions.
Swing Bout is an awe-inspiring film for being described as an independent film without a huge budget. The script is well written, and the actors who portray each of the principal characters are excellent in their performances, from the swing bout fighters to the “men in charge” (promoters). No matter how professional or upstanding these men try to pretend to be, there is no doubt they are involved in things outside the law. The filmmakers should be recognized for their excellent work in having a good story, actors, and cinematography to deliver a film that appears authentic and can resonate with a diverse audience.
It is creative in that it is set in the world of boxing. Still, it shows the audience what is often not seen “behind the curtain” of this “entertainment” business, as one character describes where they find themselves, instead of being completely limited to the sport. Is there a fight? Oh yes, many and not the ones in the ring that we usually see in boxing films. Instead of focusing on the fighters in the ring, the viewers see what transpires in the moments before, especially by those who seek to line their pockets.
Swing Bout stars Ciara Berkeley, Ben Condron, Frank Prendergast, Chrissie Cronin, and Sinead O’Riordan, who also produces.
The film notes for the film’s release include this quote from the filmmaker (Maurice O’Carroll): “Swing Bout is a film that thrives on tension, character, and a relentless pace. We made it for cinema lovers who enjoy smart, high-stakes storytelling, and it’s been brilliant to see how audiences in Ireland responded. Now, I’m looking forward to sharing that experience with UK and international viewers.”
Swing Bout was entirely filmed at Pairc Ui Chaoimh Stadium in Cork.
Run Time: 90 mins.
This film won the 2024 Paladino D’Oro Best Picture award and will be available on digital download in the UK from May 12th, 2025.
Source: Orion Productions, distributed by Orion Pictures