Produced by Taunt Studios, Nollaí invites viewers into a magical, heart-warming adventure led by Nollaig, an ordinary deer with an extraordinary secret.
It is set to premiere on December 14 in Irish on TG4 and Cúla4, BBC Two Northern Ireland and BBCiPlayer, and in Welsh on S4C.
The movie follows Nollaig or Nollaí as he is affectionately known, after he is found by a human family in the mountains and promptly adopted.
Nollaí does not quite fit in given his exceptional size, leading to a moment of self-realisation when he discovers he may well be the last living Megaloceros giganteus (giant deer) in existence.
Image: TG4
From here begins his journey alongside human family member Sadhbh to retrace his roots which introduces him to Stoca, a slightly chaotic Christmas-loving bat who is more than happy to join them on their quest.
“This collaboration brings together an extraordinary blend of creative talent and cultural storytelling from Ireland and Wales, resulting in a festive film we believe will enchant families for years to come,” said TG4 commissioning editor, Máire Uí Choisdealbha.
Commissioning executive for BBC NI, Karen Kirby, described the movie as “a delightful tale of love and belonging” capable of translating across any language.
S4C content commissioner, Sioned Geraint, said it will be the highlight of the channel’s festive schedule for children and families for years to come.
“It’s been great working with our Celtic friends again and build on the ever growing relationship between TG4 and S4C, and being able to launch this film in Irish and Welsh on the same day on both channels is perfect,” she said.
Tom Getty of Taunt Studios said the production process was like “a dream come true”.
“None of this would have been possible without the support of BBC NI, TG4 and S4C, as well as our funders ILBF, Northern Ireland Screen and Coimisiún na Meán. We hope you all like it as much as we do.”
Nollaí will air on both TG4 & Cúla4in Irish on December 14 at 5.05pm. S4C will also play it on December 14 at the same time in Welsh
The film has also been voiced in English, and BBC Two NI and BBC NI iPlayer will show it in Irish too on December 14 at the slightly later time of 6.40pm.
