Michael Sheen stars in new Welsh sci-fi film Out There inspired by personal loss.

Get ready for a journey of discovery and connection in the new Welsh sci-fi caper ‘Out There’. Director Simon Ryninks and star Michael Sheen reveal their personal connections to this heartwarming story about grief, aliens, and finding meaning.

Personal Connections

For director Simon Ryninks, the idea for ‘Out There’ came from a place of personal loss. His mother’s passing inspired him to write a story about grief and searching for answers. “The idea came about from my mum’s passing and knowing that I wanted to write something about grief,” he tells us.

Meanwhile, Michael Sheen was drawn to the project by his love of emerging Welsh voices and his own fascination with UFO sightings. As a fan of Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Ryninks knew he had found the perfect star for the role of Shifty Gruff – himself.

“I was very moved by seeing the portrait of my father in that,” says Sheen of a photograph taken by Roo Lewis. “so this script really pushed buttons for me.”

The connection between Ryninks and Sheen goes beyond just their shared passion for sci-fi. Both have a deep love for Wales and its rich history, which is woven throughout the story. “The town has a history with the steelworks and real challenges of deprivation,” adds Sheen, “but to look to the skies and to believe there’s something up there is a very powerful metaphor for a lot of things.”

With a star-studded ensemble including Aneurin Barnard, Iwan Rheon, and newcomer Nerys Amber Stocks, ‘Out There’ promises to be an unforgettable journey. Don’t miss the world premiere at Edinburgh Film Festival on Friday.