GALLOWGLASS
Gallowglass: A mercenary warrior...
Gallowglass is a network prime-time, historical drama told across 10 feature length episodes about a 16th century warrior’s quest for vengeance, justice and meaning in the turbulent world of the emerging British Empire, Europe and the Americas. No-one is safe in these desperate times. Greed challenges good. Villains prosper, heroes' perish, who prevails? Gallowglass follows the fortunes of David MacSweeny as he pursues arch-enemies Francis Cosby and James Blake across the globe. Set against a backdrop of Ireland’s upheaval during the Tudor period, the series speaks to all ages of the lone warrior’s search for meaning and connection in a turbulent world.
Whilst this adventure employs as a backdrop some of the most iconic events globally of the time - historical accuracy should not get in the way of a good story.
THE QUEST:
Lured to a trap in the guise of a peace treaty Eithne’s father, along with other chieftains, were slaughtered. It gets worse for Eithne – The Chieftain’s seal of office was stolen from her father as he lay dead. The offenders? Cosby and Blake. Eithne, rescued from the jaws of death by McSweeny, O’More and Senan, vows to avenge her father and retrieve the seal. David, smitten by Eithne and with a strong desire to keep her close he offers his help. O’More, whose own family were caught up in the slaughter wants in. Senan self-appointed mentor to David, goes where he does.
David’s quest will take him from Elizabethan Ireland through some of the earliest colonial settlements of North America (Canada, Roanoke Island, Santa Fe, El Paso, Mexico) and Europe (Spain, France and England)
The pace of the show can be maintained by cutting back and forth between hunters (David, Eithne, Rory and Senan) and prey (Cosby and Blake).
In many cases, we will revisit locations as our heroes follow the trail of their prey. This allows us to maximise the use of each location and impart with greater ease and clarity, the historical backdrop of each episode.
MacSweeny and his motley crew keep a low profile as they pursue Cosby, employing FATHER SENAN, God’s disciple, as an advance guard to scout the towns and settlements. RORY can connect with the native American nations, to help keep them on the right trail. They will, from time to time, offer their services to replenish funds and supplies.
PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS
David MacSweeny:
Of Irish Chieftain stock, he was raised in Scotland by his grandparents until he was old enough to become apprentice to his father Rohan , who plied his trade across Europe as a mercenary and master swordsman.In his late twenties, he’s now a seasoned fighter - a Gallowglass. Although fearless and noble, he has never been in love and his first encounter with Eithne turns his world upside down.
EITHNE O’MALLEY
She is feisty, intelligent and sexy as hell. Schooled by her father in the arts of diplomacy and discretion, she can fight, ride and track as well as any young man in the clan. A chance encounter with MacSweeney forms a strong allegiance between them. Her attraction to him is obvious to all except MacSweeney, much to her frustration and at times, anger.
Could be described as the inspiration for Lara Croft.
FATHER SENAN
Before donning the monks habit, Father Senan was a fearless soldier of fortune. Despite having renounced violence in pursuit of God’s will, he falls back on the skills from his past when the needs arise.
A friend of MacSweeny’s late father Rohan, his loyalty and affection is now transferred to our hero.
RORY O’MORE
Descended from Celtic magicians, Rory is an enigmatic shape shifter who can take the form of both animals and birds.
This gift, coupled with his skills as a warrior make him a formidable ally and a fearsome enemy.
His ability to gather intelligence without provoking suspicion, makes him invaluable in the hunt for Cosby and Blake.
FRANCIS COLBY
His courage and charm belie the callous and cunning tyrant underneath. An accomplished swordsman, he picks his battles wisely and will run as quick as fight. Currently exiled by the crown, the fruit of his ill-deeds has blossomed and vengeance awaits. The death of Eithne’s father must be paid for and with MacSweeny after his blood, he can’t run forever…
JAMES BLAKE
A seasoned spy, well versed in the dark arts of espionage and court politics. Loyal to the highest bidder, he is an accomplished liar and irascible rogue. Having made playing both sides his preserve, he has a knack for uncovering secrets to use for blackmail. Unscrupulous but resourceful, he has thrown in his lot with Cosby. He needs Cosby but not as much as Cosby needs him…