May 15, 2025: The much-anticipated biopic Lucia, directed by Aisling Walsh and starring Maya Hawke as Lucia Joyce, has already secured major international deals ahead of its Cannes Market debut. Within hours of being introduced by sales company The Veterans, the film was acquired by ARP Sélection for France and Vertigo Films for Spain.
The film, a psychological drama, centers on the life of Lucia Joyce, the daughter of legendary Irish author James Joyce (portrayed by Rhys Ifans). The narrative explores Lucia’s aspirations to become a professional dancer and her tumultuous relationship with her father, who regarded her as both muse and confidante.
Born in 1907 in Trieste, Lucia spent her formative years in cosmopolitan European cities such as Zurich and Paris. In the cultural vibrancy of 1920s Paris, she pursued a career in dance while navigating her own inner struggles and the emotional weight of her father’s literary legacy.
Scripted by Michael Kinirons, the film dives deep into themes of creativity, familial bonds, and mental health. Maya Hawke takes on the complex role of Lucia, whose life was marked by both artistic ambition and emotional hardship.
Director Aisling Walsh, known for her nuanced portrayals of artists in films like Maudie and A Poet in New York, brings her signature sensitivity to the project. Her previous works include the award-winning Elizabeth Is Missing, and the recent BBC adaptation Miss Austen.
Lucia is being developed and produced by John Kelleher Media and EZ Films with support from Screen Ireland. Casting is handled by Amy Kate Dolan, whose credits include The Pope’s Exorcist and Juliet and Romeo.
With strong early interest in Cannes and a talented cast and crew, Lucia is shaping up to be a powerful portrait of a forgotten yet fascinating figure from literary history.