Ireland’s Lighthouse Studios visits Savage Town for adult animated series

Marcus Fleming (left) and Declan Shalvey

Irish animation company Lighthouse Studios is developing an animated series for adults based on Declan Shalvey and Philip Barrett’s graphic novel Savage Town.

The 2D animated crime drama is loosely based on real events that took place in Ireland at the turn of the 21st century during a period of economic growth that transformed it from one of Western Europe’s poorer countries into one of its wealthiest.

In this period, known as the Celtic Tiger, many ordinary people suddenly had cash to spare, and with cash came opportunity. Savage Town follows one local gangster who sees a chance to make a major play to control the city but finds himself trapped between two rival gangs with the same intention.

Marcus Fleming (Dominion Creek) will serve as head writer on the adaptation.

Lighthouse Studios MD Claire Finn said: “With Savage Town, Declan, Philip and Jordie [Bellaire – the novel’s colourist] have created a compelling story that touches on societal themes that are relevant today the world over, including what happens to those that get left behind, the struggles of the working class, discrimination and gang violence.

“The graphic novel gives us a gritty backdrop to further develop the story and delve into the plot lines to create a bingeworthy adult animated series that will resonate with audiences around the globe.”