Major Awards & Upcoming Movie for ‘The Chancer’ by Galway Author Fiona Graham

The Chancer, written by Galway-based author and screenwriter Fiona Graham, has picked up its second award since publication last year, with a movie reportedly in the works. Find out more here...

The Chancer recently won the category for Popular Fiction at the IndieReader Discovery Awards 2024. IndieReader’s review described The Chancer as "sparkling with comic energy. An engaging and entertaining treat of a read." The book also won the Bronze Medal for Comedy Fiction at the Readers’ Favourite International Book Awards 2023.

Fiona has also written a screenplay for The Chancer, which Galway-based production company Éiru Films has optioned. Éiru Films is a full-service production company based in Galway, dedicated to championing and partnering with new and established creative cinematic voices to produce high-end original, exciting, and innovative cinema and television drama for international audiences.

The story of The Chancer is set in Ireland and LA in 1989, where a small-town misfit from the west of Ireland chances everything to become a Hollywood star.

Ivan McMahon, Producer at Éiru Films, explains why they have chosen the screenplay for their production slate; "The Chancer is a funny, feel-good story about following your dreams. It will appeal to a broad audience seeking an upbeat, punchy and fun cinematic experience. We’re delighted to have ‘The Chancer’ on our slate. Fiona Graham's achievements with this novel are showcasing the talent and creativity in our region. Éiru Films is committed to fostering local talent, and is excited to spotlight stories that resonate globally while maintaining a strong local connection."

In addition to the awards for the book, the screenplay has received eight accolades in various international screenwriting competitions, including the Los Angeles International Screenplay Awards, Dallas International Film Festival Competition, and Atlanta Film Festival Screenplay Competition.

Fiona Graham previously wrote and produced the award-winning Irish feature film Songs for Amy starring Sean Maguire. The Chancer is her debut novel, which she also adapted into the screenplay.

"I am thrilled that The Chancer has been recognised with another international award, and I’m excited Éiru films have optioned ‘The Chancer’, ‘ she says. ‘Going into development for a movie is exciting, and Éiru Films are full of energy and enthusiasm to bring ‘The Chancer’ to the screen.’