Logline – The true story of Patrick O’Connell, a gifted, charismatic Irish footballer who, prioritises the beautiful game over the competing demands of his personal life.

Synopsis
Patrick O’Connell rose from humble beginnings in Dublin to play for Belfast Celtic and Manchester United where he was involved in the most notorious match fixing scandal of his generation. On retirement from playing, he abandoned his wife Ellen and his four children and moved to Spain to become a very successful football manager. The story intertwines from Patrick’s triumphs in Spain to the poverty-stricken family he left behind in Manchester. 

Patrick became the first and only manager to win La Liga with Real Betis before managing FC Barcelona. He then marries again but without seeking a divorce, which leads to disastrous consequences.

At the outbreak of the Spanish civil war in 1936, the President of Barcelona,

Josep Sunyol, was assassinated leaving the club in crisis. Don Patricio as he was affectionately known took the club on tour to Mexico, Cuba and New York and

the money they raised ensured the club’s survival.

After the civil war he returned to work in Spain before heading to London where, unable to find work and abandoned by his second wife, after she uncovers the truth that he was bigamous, he dies destitute in 1959.

Based on the biography ‘The Man who saved FC Barcelona’ The remarkable true story of Patrick O’Connell’ by Sue O’Connell. 

Recommendations for Don Patricio on WESCREENPLAY/COVERFLY

Rating = Recommend
Top 1% = Concept
Top 1% = Characters
Top1% = Plot

Unique Hook
This film grabs our attention immediately with its compelling premise of an underdog hero who saves FC Barcelona against all odds. The concept of delving into the life of Patrick O’Connell, a lesser-known yet pivotal figure in football history, is not only entertaining but also educational. What I truly loved about this film is that the combination of historical depth, personal struggles, and the dramatic backdrop of early 20th-century football creates what is an epic drama. This unique blend of sports, history, and personal redemption makes the script, to my mind, intriguing from the outset.

Concept
The screenplay masterfully blends historical authenticity with rich character development, creating a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and thrilling. I genuinely feel that the audiences will be drawn to the tale of a flawed yet heroic figure whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

 Dialogue
The dialogues are masterfully crafted, capturing the essence of the characters and their complex relationships with powerful and dramatic lines. Firstly, it’s not easy to stay true to the era all while ensuring that you’re differentiating between British and Irish humour and colloquialisms. The way you’ve nuanced the script is terrific.

Target Audience
The buzz this film would create is unimaginable. It would entice viewers who are interested in epic romances, world war films, sports dramas–frankly, this film has a little bit of everything for everybody. I’m confident that this film will find its audience.

Genre Impact
It’s safe to say that this film can definitely garner interest from A-list directors, studios, and streaming platforms. It has immense festival potential; plus, it’s commercially viable. 

For further information and expressions of interest please contact andrew@mainroadfilms.co.uk

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Main Road Films is currently looking for investment on the feature length film ‘Village of the Scammed’ to be filmed in 2024.