Martin Sheen is set to begin filming in for ‘Stella Days’ in Fethard, County Tipperary not far from where his families home town.

Sheen’s mother, Mary Anne Phelan, emigrated to the United States from that area and Sheen still has residents in the village of Kilbarron. Sheen spent a great deal of time in Ireland four years ago when he completed an Arts degree from the National University of Ireland, in Galway City.

The actor who has starred in such hits as “Apocalypse Now”, “Wall Street” and “The West Wing” is set to start filming over the coming weeks.

“Stella Days” tells the story of a newly-arrived parish priest (Sheen) who wants to open a cinema in the small town in the 1950s. His plans attract opposition from his bishop and some locals who fear the effect this outside influence might have on their way of life.

Thaddeus O’Sullivan, the director, has already been spotted in the picturesque town over the last month selecting locations for filming. O’Sullivan’s latest project, “Into the Storm”, starring Brendan Gleeson as Winston Churchill won a host of awards.

It is believed that filming will take place in the famous McCarthy’s Bar, the town hall and the Holy Trinity Church. Extras for the crowd scenes will be cast from the locals in the town.