Four Mothers, a heartwarming comedy-drama starring James McArdle (Mary Queen of Scots, Mare of Easttown, Ammonite) and Fionnula Flanagan (The Guard, The Others, Waking Ned Devine), premiered in Official Competition at the 2024 BFI London Film Festival, winning the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature. On 4 April it was released in UK/Irish cinemas by BFI Distribution and Break Out Pictures. It is now coming to Blu-ray, BFI Player and digital in June with special features including an audio commentary by director Darren Thornton and writer Colin Thornton, a filmed interview with James McArdle and two short films directed by Darren Thornton.

Edward (James McArdle), a novelist responsible for caring for his elderly mother, now finds himself on the brink of literary success. With pressure to go on a US book tour mounting, the last thing Edward needs is his friends jetting off to the Canary Islands for an impromptu Pride holiday, leaving their mothers on his doorstep. Over a chaotic weekend, he has to juggle his burgeoning career with the care of four eccentric, combative and wildly different ladies.

This uplifting film follows an unlikely found family on an emotionally charged journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The cast includes Dearbhla Molloy (Nominated for Olivier Award, The Ferryman) Paddy Glynn and Stella McCusker. Niamh Cusack makes a cameo appearance as a medium and Rory O’Neill, aka Panti Bliss, one of Ireland’s best known drag performers, plays a therapist. 

Four Mothers will be released on Blu-ray, BFI Player, Apple TV and Amazon Prime by the BFI on 16 June 2025 at the RRP of £19.99 for the Blu-ray.

BLU-RAY FEATURES:

• Presented in High Definition
• Audio commentary by Colin and Darren Thornton
• The Absurdity in These Moments: an Interview With James McArdle (2025, 25 mins): the actor discusses his upbringing, training and collaboration on Four Mothers
• Frankie (2007, 12 mins): a 15-year-old schoolboy prepares to become a father
• Two Hearts (2011, 18 mins): when a man from Lorna’s past is released from prison, she begins to spiral out of control
• Behind the scenes (2024, 5 mins): onset clips and interviews with the cast and director
• Trailer
• First pressing only: Illustrated booklet with new writing on the film by Simon McCallum and director Darren Thornton, writing on Frankie and Two Hearts by Rachel Pronger and original review by Nick Davis; notes on the special features and credits