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A new docudrama titled "Matt Talbot: Urban Mystic" is set to explore the life of an Irish laborer who is on the path to sainthood. The film, produced by Catholic filmmaker Bill Rose and his company Joyful Films, highlights Matt Talbot's journey from a teenage alcoholic to a devout man known for his piety. This transformation occurred long before modern addiction recovery programs were developed.
Bill Rose noted that Talbot's story laid important groundwork for recovery methods that came later. "Talbot’s 'legacy and inspiration really laid the groundwork for recovery in many ways, before AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) and … before people even knew what mental health was,'" he said.
Born in Dublin in 1856, Talbot started working at age 12 and soon developed an alcohol addiction. In 1884, he took a pledge of abstinence at Holy Cross College in Dublin and remained sober until his death. His lifestyle included prayer, penance, and charitable acts despite limited resources.
Talbot died in 1925 while hurrying to Mass, with penitential chains found on him posthumously. His canonization cause began in 1937, and he was declared "Venerable" by St. Pius VI in 1975. Pope Francis venerated his relics during the 2018 World Meeting of Families.
Father Douglas McKay, an executive producer of the film and a Philadelphia-based addiction recovery chaplain, recalled skepticism about Talbot's suitability for sainthood due to his relatable appearance.
The project uses crowdfunding alongside major donations for financing, a strategy similar to that used by Dallas Jenkins for "The Chosen." Filming took place in Dublin with actor Matt Hayes playing Talbot. The production team plans to return to Ireland for events marking the centenary of Talbot's death.
Ken Johnston and Father McKay have seen devotion to Talbot aid those seeking sobriety through their work at Our House Ministries in Philadelphia. They lead "Matt Talbot Retreats," which provide spiritual support for recovery.
Rose expressed hope that the film will inspire change and healing among its viewers. “God’s got a special place in his heart for this,” he remarked.
Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X @GinaJesseReina.
