Man of the Sword
An epic story of one man's quest for freedom
A sweeping historical drama based on the astonishing life of Thomas Francis Meagher — Irish rebel, convict, Civil War general, and acting Governor of Montana, whose life was dedicated to lifting up others.
After leading a failed rebellion in Ireland, a young revolutionary is exiled to Tasmania, escapes to America, and rises again as a Civil War general — only to disappear under mysterious circumstances.
The story is relevant in our world today as it speaks to the ongoing struggle for human rights.
Quick Facts:
Format: 6-Part Limited Series
Genre: Action drama/Thriller/Suspense
In Development: Abu Media/ Kinvara Productions
Based On: The novel “Man of the Sword” by Paul Kenney
Synopsis
Thomas Francis Meagher was born to wealth and privilege in 19th-century Ireland, but chose revolution. At just 25, he led a failed uprising against British rule and was sentenced to exile in the harsh penal colony of Van Diemen’s Land. From there, he escaped to America, rising again — this time becoming a decorated general in the U.S. Civil War and commander of The Irish Brigade, one of the most highly decorated units in US history.
By the time of his mysterious death in Montana, Meagher had touched three continents, defied two empires, and redefined the cost of liberty.
Framed by a meeting between two soldiers on a train in 1918 during World War I, Man of the Sword is both an epic and a reckoning — a journey through violence, charisma, idealism, and consequence.
Based on real events. A story that reshaped nations.
Why This Story Now?
History has never felt more urgent and some stories echo louder.
In a world still wrestling with nationalism, migration, and identity, Meagher’s story cuts through time.
His rebellion wasn’t just political — it was personal. His transformation mirrors our own questions about freedom, sacrifice, and legacy. Meagher sacrificed much for many.
A forgotten legend for a new generation
Global resonance with a universal theme of helping others
A tale of resistance and redemption
Timely, universal, and deeply human
Production Partners
Man of the Sword is being co-produced by Kinvara Productions and Abu Media, an international partner in production and global television.
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Galway-based Abú Media is a multi-award-winning film and television production company working across drama, feature film, documentary, and international co-productions. The company produced the acclaimed historical drama An Klondike (Dominion Creek) and has developed projects for international audiences and broadcasters.
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Greg Phillips is an international television executive with extensive experience in content financing, co-production, and global distribution. As Co-CEO of Rainmaker Content and former President of Kew Media Distribution, he has worked across premium television projects for broadcasters and streaming platforms worldwide.
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Pierce Boyce is Managing Director of Abú Media and producer of the award-winning drama An Klondike. He leads international co-production initiatives for the company and works on development, financing partnerships, and production strategy.
Visit Pierce’s IMDB
Technical Notes
Visual Style & Tone
A cinematic tour from Waterford and Dublin, to the Battlefields of America — A Story Made for the Screen
Key Worlds
Ireland, 1848 — Revolution begins
Tasmania — Exile and betrayal
America — War, politics, and the price of leadership
Expect sweeping landscapes, tactile realism, and intimate character arcs. Imagine The Crown meets The Revenant with the emotional depth of A Very English Scandal.
Cast
TBD
Director
TBD
Seeking Partners
We are actively seeking conversations with:
Streamers and broadcasters
Festival allies and pre-sale partners
Contact us
info@manofthesword.com