Film Ireland Podcast

Gene Wilder with an Irish brogue? In this very special episode of the Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh chats with New England filmmaker Frank Durant, who has travelled to Dublin to explore the locations featured in the 1970s Gene Wilder film Quackser Fortune Has a Cousin in the Bronx. Joining him on this nostalgic journey is Ireland-based filmmaker Meghan Mickela, who is documenting the experience. Later in the episode, we were very privileged to catch up with Quackser director Waris Hussein, who shares his memories of filming on the streets of Dublin and gives his insights into bringing this cult classic to life. Quackser Fortune Has a Cousin in the Bronx is a 1970 comedy film, shot on location in Dublin, directed by Waris Hussein, written by Gabriel Walsh, and starring Gene Wilder and Margot Kidder. It focuses on a poor Irish manure collector (Wilder) who falls in love with an American exchange student (Kidder) after she almost runs him over. The film opened in Ireland on 9th June 1972.

In this Film Ireland podcast Gemma Creagh talks to Alessandra Celesia, Director of The Flats. Joe and his Belfast neighbors reenact childhood memories from the violent Troubles era in their Catholic district, exploring the collective experiences that shaped their lives and community. The Flats is in cinemas from 23rd May 2025. https://filmireland.net/

In this special Film Ireland podcast, Naemi Victoria talks to Feargal Ward (Tin City) & Sophie Somerville (Fwends), whose films both premiered at Berlinale in 2025.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Director Lorcan Finnegan & Writer Thomas Martin about their film The Surfer. A man returns to the idyllic beach of his childhood to surf with his son, but is humiliated by a group of powerful locals and drawn into a conflict that rises with the punishing heat of the summer and pushes him right to his breaking point. Starring  Nicolas Cage, Julian McMahon, Nicholas Cassim, Miranda Tapsell, and Alexander Bertrand. The Surfer is up in Irish cinemas from 9th May 2025. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Director & Co-Writer Mark O'Connor and Co-Writer & Actor Luke McQuillan about their film 'Amongst The Wolves'. Also we chat to Finglas teenager Emma Whelan who was recently named Ireland's Young Filmmaker of the Year at the annual Fresh Film Festival for her film Abhaile, which she wrote, directed, and starred in. Co-written by O'Connor and McQuillan Amongst The Wolves follows a homeless former soldier who, haunted by PTSD, forms an unlikely bond with a troubled teenager, while he navigates the dangers of life on the streets. The visceral and gripping crime thriller stars Golden Globe® nominee Aidan Gillen (Game of Thrones, Kin, Love/Hate), Luke McQuillan (Darklands, Game of Thrones), Jade Jordan (Twig), Louise Bourke (Let The Wrong One In), Helen Behan (This is England) and newcomer Daniel Fee. Produced by Bread and Circus Productions and Stalker Films. Amongst The Wolves is in cinemas from 2nd May 2025. https://filmireland.net/

In this episode of the Film Ireland podcast, we are excited to look the TRANS IMAGE / TRANS EXPERIENCE (TITE) FILM FESTIVAL, which takes place from 25–27 April 2025 at the Light House Cinema in Dublin.  We begin by speaking with James Hudson, the festival founder. Then we are joined by Theda Hammel, whose remarkable debut feature, Stress Positions, will close this year's programme. Finally, we speak with Garry McHugh, director and CEO of Young Irish Film Makers, who have been nominated for a Global Production Award at Cannes – a significant recognition of their contribution to youth engagement and creativity in film. About TITE This year's festival presents 8 feature films, 40 shorts, a workshop, filmmaker Q&As, and more to be announced. From award-winning Sundance darlings to low budget DIY extravaganzas, soft-spoken dramas to hyperpop explosions, dozens of Irish premieres and a special archive screening from 1989; whatever you picture when you think about ‘trans film', think again. Check out their programme now at TITE.ie.

We are delighted to partner with the Writers' Guild of Ireland to bring you 2 very special podcasts of panels and discussions from the 2024 World Conference of Screenwriters, an international gathering of screenwriters and Writers Guilds from all around the world, which took place in Galway, 2 – 3 October 2024. This first podcast features Day 1's proceedings, beginning with: Irish Retrospective Bringing together some key players in the building of the Writers' Guild of Ireland gather for a lively discussion on its origins, the long austerity years, and the current brighter climate Speakers Thomas McLaughlin Jennifer Davidson John Lynch Sean Moffatt Building Creative Relationships An in-conversation session with Element Picture's Emma Norton, exploring their long term relationships with writers. (from 52mins) Speakers Emma Norton Michele Mulroney Soaps in the Era of Prestige TV Soaps have traditionally propped up local production ecosystems, draw huge audiences and fulfill an important public service remit. But they often don't get respect. With the demise of shows like BBCs Doctors, the cutting back of episodes and budgets for soaps globally, can they survive? (from  1hr 49mins) Speakers Jennifer Davidson Carl Austin Peter Mattessi Damon Rochefort Jessica Joy Wood The Power of Stories: Screenwriters Tackling Global Issues Join us for an exploration into the dynamic role of screenwriters in driving social, environmental, and political change through their storytelling. This panel will delve into how screenwriters harness the power of narrative to address pressing issues such as climate change, social injustice, and political upheaval. Gain insights into the intersection of art and activism as we analyse the impact of screenwriting on shaping public consciousness and inspiring action towards a better future. (from  2hr 47mins) Speakers David Donoghue Terry George Nicola Guaglianone Marianne Wendt RESOLUTION OF THE 2024 WORLD CONFERENCE OF SCREENWRITERS, GALWAY, IRELAND Those Guilds with experience in organising the power of their members to create a better world for writers and their stories will commit to helping their sister Guilds to begin organising training with the goal of Writers Guilds organising globally.

In the Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Stephen Bradley , Director of 'Fran the Man'. Comedy mockumentary Fran the Man is based on the much-loved original TV show ‘Fran' which aired on Setanta Sports and TV3 from 2009-2011. Darragh Humphreys reprises his starring role as Fran Costello which sees him working undercover to save the beautiful game from match-fixing. Humphreys is joined by an ensemble of Irish comedic talent including Ardal O'Hanlon, Amy Huberman, Risteárd Cooper, Toni O'Rourke and Deirdre O'Kane. Directed by Stephen Bradley & Written by Richie Conroy. Fran the Man is produced by Collie McCarthy of Forty Foot Pictures with support from Screen Ireland and RTÉ. In cinemas from 11th April 2025.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Darren Thornton, Director/Co-Writer of Four Mothers. Over a chaotic weekend, Edward has to juggle his burgeoning career with the care of four eccentric, combative, and wildly different ladies. Four Mothers is a tender and heartwarming comedy that is set to delight cinema audiences next year with a stellar cast including James McArdle, Fionnula Flanagan, Dearbhla Molloy, Stella McCusker, Niamh Cusack, Paddy Glynn,  Rory O'Neill, Gordon Hickey and Gearoid Farrelly. In cinemas from 4th April 2025. Ahead of that, Film Ireland's Young Peoples' correspondent, Maximilian Driver caught up with Trevor Courtney at a special screening of Holt, a new Irish animated series screening onto RTÉ2 this April. Three mismatched teens from planet Éire, shipwrecked on a dangerous world, must help save the universe from the Blight if they're ever to return home. https://filmireland.net/

In this podcast, Film Ireland is delighted to partner with the National Talent Academy for Film & TV and GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival as we're joined by three participants from their fantastic starGAZE programme. This is a platform for LGBTQIA talent that provides access to Irish and international creatives, full festival access, and mentorship with an established LGBTQIA filmmaker. In this episode we are joined by Pradeep Mahadeshwar, Ian Fallon & Liadán Roche to talk about their craft and career and their experiences on starGAZE. starGAZE 2025 Applications Are Now Open GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival has announced the second year of their professional development programme starGAZE, supporting by the National Talent Academies. The initiative which will support six emerging LGBTQIA filmmakers is now open for applications. starGAZE provides a platform for LGBTQIA talent through an internationally recognised film festival by giving participants access to Irish and international creatives, full festival access and a mentorship with an established LGBTQIA filmmaker. starGAZE 2025 will accept applications from LGBTQIA people of all backgrounds, particularly encouraging applicants from the global majority, trans and non-binary people, people from working-class communities, the Travelling community, people with disabilities and all equity-seeking individuals facing additional challenges within the film industry. starGAZE is supported by the National Talent Academy Film & TV Drama and by the Arts Council of Ireland. starGAZE's ambition is to increase the number of Irish LGBTQIA stories on screen and showcase the next generation of Irish queer and trans voices. Apply by Monday 14 April, 5pm. https://www.nationaltalentacademies.ie/courses-activities-programmes/stargaze-2025 https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to John Farrelly, Writer/Director of An Taibhse. An Taibhse unfolds in the bleak landscape of post-famine Ireland,exploring the profound hardships faced by its people. The narrative centres around Éamon (Tom Kerrisk) and his daughter Máire (Livvy Hill), who take on the task of maintaining a remote mansion , only to be driven to  the edge of sanity by the horrors lurking within. Their task, initially serene, veers into terror as they encounter inexplicable phenomena. The film explores the depths of human resilience in the face of unspeakable horror, presenting a nuanced portrayal of survival and the complex ways the mind adapts to protect itself. In cinemas from 28th March 2025. Produced, Written & Directed: John Farrelly Executive Producers: Jim Sheridan, Tom Kerrisk Starring: Tom Kerrisk, Livvy Hill, Anthony Murphy John Farrelly - Writer & Director John Farrelly is an acclaimed Irish filmmaker, best known for directing An Taibhse (The Ghost), the first-ever horror feature film in the Irish language. At the age of 17, Farrelly was named Ireland's Best Young Filmmaker for his short film Choice. Throughout his later school years and college, he went on to direct the award-winning feature film The Sleep Experiment and the Irish language short Difriúil. An Taibhse, set in post-famine Ireland, has garnered critical praise at international festivals, with six-time Oscar nominee Jim Sheridan serving as Executive Producer.

In this podcast, Film Ireland is delighted to partner with the National Talent Academy for Film & TV and GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival as we're joined by three participants from their fantastic starGAZE programme. This is a platform for LGBTQIA talent that provides access to Irish and international creatives, full festival access, and mentorship with an established LGBTQIA filmmaker. Listen back as cinematographer Alba Fernandez, producer and screenwriter Philip Emo, and director and screenwriter Hiram Harrington talk about craft, career and what makes a film great.  starGAZE 2025 applications are now open GAZE International LGBTQIA Film Festival has announced the second year of their professional development programme starGAZE, supporting by the National Talent Academies. The initiative which will support six emerging LGBTQIA filmmakers is now open for applications. starGAZE provides a platform for LGBTQIA talent through an internationally recognised film festival by giving participants access to Irish and international creatives, full festival access and a mentorship with an established LGBTQIA filmmaker. starGAZE 2025 will accept applications from LGBTQIA people of all backgrounds, particularly encouraging applicants from the global majority, trans and non-binary people, people from working-class communities, the Travelling community, people with disabilities and all equity-seeking individuals facing additional challenges within the film industry. starGAZE is supported by the National Talent Academy Film & TV Drama and by the Arts Council of Ireland. starGAZE's ambition is to increase the number of Irish LGBTQIA stories on screen and showcase the next generation of Irish queer and trans voices. Apply by Monday 14 April, 5pm here: https://www.nationaltalentacademies.ie/courses-activities-programmes/stargaze-2025 Read more about these creatives here: https://filmireland.net/2025/03/21/podcast-introducing-stargaze-participants-alba-fernandez-philip-emo-hiram-harrington/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to filmmaker, screenwriter, marketing specialist and long-time Film Ireland friend Chris Brennan about his journey into filmaking and his move into marketing, professional communication, and branding. Chris Brennan Chris Brennan is an accomplished filmmaker, screenwriter, and marketing specialist. He co-directed the feature drama Keys to the City and wrote the feature comedy The Light of Day. Combining dynamic storytelling with marketing expertise, Chris now helps screenwriters and creative professionals reach their goals through expert strategies in marketing, professional communication, and branding. Visit http://www.writingchops.io/ for more, and check out Writing Chops on YouTube for more tips, strategies and guidance https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAHcYDu5lAPn5y1B6WgILBA Subscribe to the Film Ireland podcast on your favourite platform here. https://linktr.ee/filmireland

In this Film Ireland Podcast, award-winning writer director and documentary filmmaker Roisin Kearney talks to actor Travis Nelson. Travis has been acting internationally since 2009 and has starred in Netflix's The Recruit, and Amazon's The Lake. Recently he's been working in Ireland, having starred in dlr First Frames funded short Conveyance, and Blumhouse horror Drop, which hits cinemas 11th April 2025. One of only seven shorts in the FrightFest Showcase, Conveyance screens at Glasgow Film Festival on 8th March 2025 at 1pm in Glasgow Film Theatre.

In partnership with Screen Ireland, we are delighted to present Screen Sessions – a series of in-depth conversations on craft between talent from the Screen industries. In this very special podcast, Director & Editor Breege Rowley talks to fellow Editor Jérôme Eltabet, who worked on one of the standout films of 2024, The Substance, which received 5 Oscar nominations, including best picture.  Breege and Jérôme discuss the building of scenes in The Substance as well as the craft of editing as they share advice on breaking into the industry. Screen Sessions are supported by the Audience Development Fund. https://www.screenireland.ie/ https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Chelsea Morgan Hoffmann, Producer of 'September Says'. Sisters July and September are thick as thieves, though very different. September is protective and distrustful of others, while July is open to and curious about the world. Their dynamic is a concern to their single mum, Sheela, who is unsure what to do with them. When September is suspended from their school, July is left to fend for herself and begins to assert her own independence - which does not go unnoticed by September. Tension among the three women builds when they take refuge in an old holiday home in Ireland, where July finds her bond with September shifting in ways she cannot entirely understand or control - and a series of surreal encounters test the family to their limit. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Remi Alfallah, Co-Director, Producer of Dollar Baby's, which screens at this year's Dublin International Film Festival. Struggling to make ends meet in a run-down LA motel, Maedbh is torn between her Irish roots and the new life she is fighting to build for herself in the U.S. Encouraged by her girlfriend Frankie, they venture into the ‘Girls Club' of the LA Sugar Baby scene in one last attempt to survive in the city Maedbh has always dreamed of living in. Since its creation, Dollar Baby's has gained significant traction, with over 1.5 million views and saves on social media. The film screens as part of the DIFF Shorts: In Transit programme on February 25th at the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF). The 2025 Dublin International Film Festival runs 20th February – 2nd March.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Claire Frances Byrne, Director and Ruth Coady, Producer of 'Ready or Not', which screens at this year's Dublin International Film Festival. Dublin, 1998. Teenagers are all attitude, high ponies and low-waist jeans. Everyone is talking about sex, but no one is talking about consent. What Katie (Ruby Conway Dunne) thinks will be a summer of hanging out in the estate, blaring her favourite tunes and playing football with her best mate Steo (Alex Grendon), becomes a summer of expectations, of crossing lines she didn't know existed. Byrne's debut feature is a bursting coming-of-age story with a twist, revealing the grey areas we create to make sense of the world. Ready or Not screens on February 22nd 20:30 at the Light House Cinema. Book Tickets https://diff.ticketsolve.com/shows/873668897/events The 2025 Dublin International Film Festival runs 20th February – 2nd March. Exlore the Programme  http://www.diff.ie/ https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Robert Byrne, Film Preservationist and Restorer. This year's Dublin International Film Festival is hosting Silent Cinema: Restoration & Celebration. From conservation to ongoing screenings to composing and playing live musical accompaniment, this discussion will dissect the world of silent cinema and its place on our screens today. The panel features Serge Bromberg and Robert Byrne. Bromberg is a renowned French film restorer and accompanist, as well as a producer, writer and director. Byrne is the President of the Board of the San Francisco Film Preserve and has spent his life in dedication to the restoration and preservation of films. Silent Cinema: Restoration & Celebration takes place at The Complex on 23rd February. Tickets  https://www.diff.ie/programme/silent-cinema%3A-restoration-%26-celebration%EF%BF%BD The 2025 Dublin International Film Festival runs 20th February - 2nd March. https://www.diff.ie/ https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Vera Drew, Director & Co-Writer of ‘The People's Joker, which has a special Trans Image/Trans Experience (TITE) Film Festival preview screening at the Light House Cinema on 14th February 2025. The People's Joker is a DIY parody film and hilarious reimagining of the classic autobiographical coming-of-age story follows an unconfident, closeted trans girl as she moves to Gotham City to make it big as a comedian by joining the cast of UCB Live – a government-sanctioned late night sketch show in a world where comedy has been outlawed. As mainstream success eludes our heroine, leading her to unite with a ragtag team of rejects, misfits, and a certain love interest named Mister J, “Joker the Harlequin” is born again as a confident (and psychotic) joker on a collision course with the city's fascist caped crusader. Vats of feminizing chemicals, sexy cartoon interludes, scarecrow psychiatrists, CGI Lorne Michaels, and psychedelic gender dysphoria all play supporting roles. Helmed by writer/director/editor/star Vera Drew and using her own life experiences as a basis for the film, The People's Joker is a deeply personal journey that's as much documentary as it is parody. Trans Image/Trans Experience (TITE) Film Festival https://tite.ie/

In this DIFF 2025 podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to 4 filmmakers whose films are screening at this year's festival. Sophie Meehan (A Little Bird Told Me), Fatoumata Gandega (I Belong), Conor McCormick (Baby Bunker) and Táine King (The Wilde Sisters).

In this Film Ireland podcast, Mick Jordan talks to Grainne Humphries, Executive Festival Director at Dublin International Film Festival. The 2025 Dublin International Film Festival runs 20th February - 2nd March. Explre the full programme and book tickets at https://www.diff.ie/programme https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Mick Jordan talks to Sinéad O'Shea, Director of Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien is a candid portrait of one of the world's greatest and most charismatic writers, Irish author Edna O'Brien. Her books were banned and burned in her native Ireland. In London and New York, she had illicit love affairs, hosted star-studded parties, and made and lost a fortune. In her final year, aged 93, she shares her diaries and gives one last interview to filmmaker Sinéad O'Shea about her extraordinary life. Her diaries are read aloud by Oscar nominated actress Jessie Buckley. Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien is an SOS Production in co-production with Tara Films, with backing from Fís Eireann/Screen Ireland, Sky and the UK Global Screen Fund. It is directed by Sinéad O'Shea, produced by Claire McCabe, Eleanor Emptage and Sinéad O'Shea with Katie Holly and Barbara Broccoli serving as Exec Producers.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Ciarán Ó Cofaigh, Producer of Na Féilte Tine: Imbolg. Na Féilte Tine (The Fire Festivals) a four part series commissioned by RTE which explores the four indigenous Irish festivals of Samhain, Imbolg, Bealtaine and Lúnasa. Each festival is a welcome to the new season. The Fire Festivals have been celebrated for millennia in Ireland and this series explores their history and continual evolution as they respond to the spiritual and communal needs of Ireland in the 21st century. The series delves into the symbolism and mythology central to each festival, and the impact that these ancient traditions have on Irish culture and identity. Imbolg the second programme airs on St. Brigid's Day, Monday 3rd February 6.30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Megan K. Fox, Director of comedy horror series ‘Video Nasty'. Three mostly normal, slightly weird teens go on an epic quest for a cult VHS collection. But on the way, they somehow get mixed up in a murder. Available to watch on Virgin Media Play from 20th January 2025. On BBC iPlayer from 8th January 2025.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to 'The Damned' Director & Co-Writer Thordur Palsson, Actor Odessa Young & Co-Writer Jamie Hannigan. 'The Damned' is a tense psychological horror film that follows 19th-century widow, Eva. Tasked with making an impossible choice when a ship sinks off the coast of her isolated fishing outpost during the middle of an especially cruel winter. With provisions running low, Eva and her close-knit community must choose between rescuing the shipwrecked crew and prioritizing their own survival. Facing the consequences of their decision and tormented by guilt, the inhabitants wrestle with a mounting sense of dread and begin to believe they are all being punished for their choices. In cinemas from 10th January 2025. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Naemi Victoria talks to Conor McMahon about his journey  into film and the inspirations behind it. REWRITE!!! This podcast was made possible with the support of Coimisiún na Meán, Ireland's agency for developing and regulating a thriving, diverse, creative, safe and trusted media landscape. Conor McMahon is a former Film Ireland contributor, director and editor of feature-length and short films, from Zombie Bashers to Dead Meat to Stitches. He studied filmmaking at the Irish National Film School in Dun Laoghaire and has worked in broadcast television. McMahon is best known for his work in horror and has been making people laugh while terrified for over two decades.  Naemi Victoria is a writer and visual artist. She loves art, cinema, and a good laugh. Having completed an undergraduate degree in English and American Studies at the University of Hamburg, she moved to Dublin for a master's degree in Film Theory at Trinity College. Her research interests are working-class cinema, gender representation, and the study of neoliberalism in popular media. Naemi is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Konstanz. Her research project will investigate the impact of neoliberal ideology on the representation of working-class identity in popular cinema from the late 1990s to the present day.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Mick Jordan talks to Paul Duane about his influences and inspiration and his love of the horror genre.

In this podcast, Hayley Jorja talks to TV/Film Critic and Culture Journalist Gavia Baker-Whitelaw. Gavia Baker-Whitelaw is a film critic and culture journalist living in Scotland. Previously a staff writer at the Daily Dot, she now freelances for a variety of outlets including TV Guide, Inverse, Vulture and BBC Radio 4, in addition to co-hosting the film podcast Overinvested and co-editing the fan culture newsletter The Rec Center. Hayley Jorja is a Dublin born writer and script editor. While she's excited to bring great stories to life through her own writing and editing, she's also passionate about media analysis. Her main ambition is to encourage people to open their minds to the media they consume. You can find her essays asking pointed questions  about the entertainment that shapes our real world on her Substack. You can also get updates on her other writing through her Linkedin. This podcast was made possible with the support of Coimisiún na Meán,  Ireland's agency for developing and regulating a thriving, diverse, creative, safe and trusted media landscape. https://filmireland.net/

In this episode of The DocArena Podcast, Ross Whitaker talks to Maurice O'Brien about his film Chasing the Light. Chasing the Light tells the story of charismatic hippie Peter Cornish who founded Dzogchen Beara, a world-leading Tibetan Buddhist centre on the cliffs of West Cork. For five decades, this former clifftop farm has transformed the lives of thousands who receive solace from the Buddhist teachings. But as the devoted community attempts to build Ireland's first Tibetan Buddhist temple, their revered teacher, Sogyal Rinpoche, is accused of serious misconduct. In cinemas from 13th December 2024. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast Dolapo Agunbiade talks to Actor Clinton Liberty, one of the new regulars in House of The Dragon. Clinton stars as Addam of Hull, one of the new regulars in HOUSE OF THE DRAGON. He is known for playing the lead role of Linus in Graham Norton's HOLDING for ITV. He can also be seen in BBC drama NORMAL PEOPLE and as the regular role of Marcus in RTE show RUSSIAN ELECTION. Other credits include the role of Max in family thriller SMOTHER for BBC Studios / RTE and the role of Jamie in feature film TOUCHDOWN. Clinton is a recent graduate of the BA Acting course at The Lir, Dublin. https://filmireland.net/

In partnership with Screen Ireland, we are delighted to present Screen Sessions – a series of in-depth conversations on craft between emerging and established talent from the Irish Screen industries. In this episode, Niall Murphy and Ed Guiney reflect on Ed's career in production, which includes co-founding film and television production company, Element Pictures, 3 Oscar nominations and global success. Screen Sessions are supported by the Audience Development Fund.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Colin Hickey, Writer/Director of 'Perennial Light'. In coastal Ireland, a young boy makes the journey from childhood to adulthood, where the haunting memory of his best friend's sudden death triggers a turbulent inner struggle. As he grapples with dark and existential thoughts, the young fisherman embarks on a quest for healing and redemption. In cinemas 29th November 2024.

In this Film Ireland podcast, we spotlight the Dublin International Comedy Film Festival, which is taking place 27-30 November 2024. First off, Gemma Creagh talks to Festival Director Mo O'Connell and Co-director Cathal Feeney about what we can look forward to. Followed by Mo talking to Tara Norris, whose comedy short Proposing to Ciara screens at the festival. Dublin International Comedy Film Festival Ireland's funniest film festival returns 27-30 November 2024 for its 5th iteration and promises some much needed winter levity with a programme of films, industry Q&A's, a live script comedy competition, networking events, live stand-up competition and awards. SCHEDULE: https://www.dublininternationalcomedyfilmfest.com/ TICKETS: https://filmfreeway.com/DublinInternationalComedyFilmFestivalDICFF/tickets The Dublin International Comedy Film Festival hits the Lighthouse Cinema once more on the 27th and 28th of November, then heads to the Complex for the first time! It will share its programme between the Lighthouse Cinema, the Complex in Smithfield, Dublin 7, the IFI, the Hendrick Hotel and Tailors Hall, D8. Activities take place from the 27th to the 30th November with a jam packed programme of comedy films, shorts & sketches from Ireland & around the globe. There's also a terrific line up of comedy acts with Bernard O'Shea, Kevin McGahern and Joe Rooney. Joe Rooney will also judge the inaugural DICFF Stand-Up Competition that DICFF have been running throughout the year, culminating in the finals on 28th & 30th November at the Hendrick Hotel & the Complex, respectively. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Moe Honan, Producer of The Magic Reindeer - Saving Santa's Sleigh. Christmas is on the horizon, and it looks like it's going to be the best one yet for Niko the Reindeer as he sets off to fulfil his biggest dream - taking his place next to his father on Santa's Flying Forces. However, he faces unexpected competition from Stella, a mysterious new challenger. Then one night, things go from bad to worse when Santa's sleigh is stolen! Now it's down to Niko, joined by friends old and new, to venture to the frozen North on a daring mission to save the holidays. In cinemas 22nd November 2024. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to 3 filmmakers whose films are screening at the Cork International Film Festival: Julia Wysocka (Skirmish), Freddie Leyden (Farmers!?) and Sam Ahern (Night Glances). The Cork International Film Festival runs 7-17November 2024. https://corkfilmfest.org/ https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Chris Cottam, Director and Producer ofT'he Problem With People', plus Gemma checks in with Co-Writer and Producer Paul Reiser and Actor Colm Meaney. Colm Meaney (Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Layer Cake) and Paul Reiser (Mad About You, Aliens) star as two estranged cousins, who having never met before, must try and put to rest a generation's worth of family disputes – before they start another one! Honouring his father's last wish to reunite with the American side of his family, Irishman Ciáran calls his cousin, Barry, out of the blue with the offer for him to visit his homeland. Barry, keen to escape from the daily grind of his New York real estate firm, agrees to make the long trip over. However, after an initially warm welcome, tensions soon boil over when it's discovered that Barry has unexpectedly been left half the money in Ciáran's father's will. With the two men now torn apart by greed and jealousy, resulting in a feud that spirals into a series of pretty squabbles and disastrous hijinks, will they ever be able to give peace a chance again? The Problem With People opens at cinemas nationwide on 8th November 2024. https://filmireland.net/

In partnership with Screen Ireland, we are delighted to present Screen Sessions – a series of in-depth conversations on craft between emerging and established talent from the Irish Screen industries. In this episode, Abby Greene and Richard Baneham discuss the world of VFX. Richard reflects on his career to date his career, which includes 2 Oscar wins for his work on Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water, and provides insight into the industry and his art. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Paul Farren talks to Assistant Director David McGiffert about the film industry and his book Best Seat in the House – An Assistant Director Behind the Scenes of Feature Films. Shooting a feature film is a fascinating and complex process. With his uniquely personal insight and experience, David McGiffert offers a captivating and entertaining view of moviemaking from the Best Seat in the House. Drawing from over three decades as an assistant director, McGiffert charts a revealing and informative journey through the making of many major studio productions working with noted directors such as Robert Zemeckis, Tim Burton, Cameron Crowe, Sydney Pollack, Milos Forman, Peter Weir, Steve Zaillian, Jon Avnet, and Terry Gilliam, and top actors like Tom Cruise, Michael Fox, Robert Redford, Dustin Hoffman, Michelle Pfeiffer, Paul Newman, Natalie Wood, Christopher Walken, and Robin Williams. Illustrated with photographs from across the author's cinematic career, this behind-the-scenes book is a must-read for casual moviegoers and committed film lovers alike. Best Seat in the House – An Assistant Director Behind the Scenes of Feature Films Buy the Book https://www.davidmcgiffert.com/available-at Buy on Audible https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Best-Seat-in-the-House-Audiobook/B0CW6KB74J

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Mark Forbes, Director of Quiet on Set: The Class Division in the Film Industry. Filmmaker Mark Forbes examines classism that has plagued the UK film industry for decades and through the lens of individuals from working-class backgrounds as we observe the challenges they encounter when attempting to enter the field. The film features actors Maxine Peake and Vicky McClure, writer Paul Laverty and filmmakers Sean McAllister and Kolton Lee. Filmed between July 2023 & July 2024, Quiet on Set: The Class Division in the Film Industry is currently being edited.

In this Film Ireland podcast Dolapo Agunbiade talks to Writer/Director Eva Birthistle and Actor Hazel Doupe; and Gemma Creagh talks to Producer Claire McCaughley about their film Kathleen Is Here. Kathleen (Hazel Doupe) is 18 and fresh out of foster care. She returns to her hometown to take ownership of her deceased mother's house. She gets a job and even a friend; but the emptiness of Kathleen's life cannot be filled by social media and reality shows. Alone and desperate for a mother figure, she sets out on a destructive path to find one. Starring Hazel Doupe, Clare Dunne, Peter Coonan, Aaron Monaghan and Liadán Dunlea. Kathleen Is Here is written and directed by Eva Birthistle and produced by Claire McCaughley for Treasure Entertainment with backing from Screen Ireland. In cinemas from 18th October 2024. Read a review of Kathleen Is Here https://filmireland.net/2024/10/18/review-kathleen-is-here/ https://filmireland.net/

In this podcast Dale Kearney talks to Patrick Willems, a filmmaker and video essayist based in New York.  Patrick Willems' new short film, The Dinner Plan, will be released by Nebula next year. Subscribe to the Film Ireland podcast on your favourite platform at https://linktr.ee/filmireland This podcast was made possible with the support of Coimisiún na Meán https://www.cnam.ie/

In this Film Ireland podcast, in partnership with access>CINEMA, Gemma Creagh talks to Niels Arden Oplev, Writer/Director of 'Rose', which is screening currently screening throughout Ireland, as well as access>CINEMA's Special Projects Officer Stephen McNeice. Set in the late '90s, Ellen and her new husband Van decide to tak e Ellen's older sister Inger on a bus trip to Paris where Inger once lived. Inger is schizophrenic, and lives in a care home coddled by her overprotective mother. Ellen sees their holiday as an opportunity to reconnect, and to find out if Inger might be able to live more independently. Inger herself has a hidden agenda for the trip – hoping to track down a lost love. 'Rose' is based on director Niels Arden Oplev's own family history and is full of feeling. Sofie Gråbøl's performance is the film's highlight. She inhabits Inger, bringing her to life and presenting all her complications, impulses and anxiety with grace. https://programme.accesscinema.ie/movie/rose-1 https://www.accesscinema.ie/ https://filmireland.net/

In this episode of The DocArena Podcast, Ross Whitaker talks to Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie about their film 'Sugarcane'. A stunning tribute to the resilience of Native people and their way of life, Sugarcane, the debut feature documentary from Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie, is an epic cinematic portrait of a community during a moment of international reckoning. In 2021, evidence of unmarked graves was discovered on the grounds of an Indian residential school run by the Catholic Church in Canada. After years of silence, the forced separation, assimilation and abuse many children experienced at these segregated boarding schools was brought to light, sparking a national outcry against a system designed to destroy Indigenous communities. Set amidst a groundbreaking investigation, SUGARCANE illuminates the beauty of a community breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma and finding the strength to persevere. https://filmireland.net/ "Welcome to The DocArena Podcast in association with Film Ireland. My name is Ross Whitaker and in this series of pocasts I want to dig deeply into the motivations of documentary filmmakers – how do they choose their subject material and what approaches and strategies do they employ to fund, craft and distribute their work…

In  this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Maurice O'Carroll, Writer/Director of Swing Bout. Swing Bout is an intense crime/thriller set backstage at a major boxing event, tracing Tony Gale's (Ciara Berkeley, The Deceived, Normal People ) tumultuous journey from the dressing room to her ring walk in a night of deceit, betrayal, and life-altering decisions. Toni, like most boxers at the beginning of their fight career, has dreams of being a world champion ,but, here on fight night, amid the bright lights and the chance to box in front of a huge TV audience on a major fight card, reality strikes hard and Toni finds herself low on confidence and even lower on cash. She becomes entangled in a web of corruption spun by her promoters, The Casey Brothers. They and her conniving coach tempt her into taking a dive against a hot prospect with connections to the underworld in exchange for a lucrative payoff. As tensions mount in the dressing room, Toni wrestles with her conscience; a betting scandal brews within the underworld; illicit affairs are exposed involving her coach; The Casey Brothers face a potential murder inquiry; and Toni's only real friend fights for her life due to inadequate medical attention after collapsing post-fight. Pushed to her physical and emotional limits, Toni confronts the brutal truths of the underworld and the sacrifices demanded by her dreams. With its gripping narrative and bold characters, Swing Bout is an independent Irish made film that keeps the audience on edge. In cinemas from 20th September 2024. https://filmireland.net/

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Elisabeth Hopper, Head of Talent Initiatives at WDM Entertainment and Lead Producer on the Netflix Documentary Talent Fund. Netflix are looking for the best and brightest documentary talent from across the UK and Ireland. There are five funds of £30,000.00 up for grabs, so whether you've applied before or this is the first you've heard of it, Netflix would love to hear from you… Applications will close on the 27th September 2024 at 1pm. Full details can be found at https://www.netflixdocfund.co.uk/ https://filmireland.net/

In this episode of Film Ireland presents, Gemma Creagh talks with BAFTA-nominated writer/director Virginia Gilbert about her powerful and evocative film Reawakening. Virginia Gilbert is an award-winning, BAFTA and IFTA nominated writer and director. Her screenwriting work has been placed on the BritList and she was named as a 'Star of Tomorrow' by Screen International. Her debut short as writer-director, Hesitation, won numerous awards internationally and was nominated for a BAFTA and an IFTA. Her debut feature A Long Way From Home, starring Academy-Award winner Brenda Fricker, BAFTA winner James Fox and Natalie Dormer, was nominated for the Michael Powell award for Best British Feature. Recent work includes the two-part series finale of BBC One's Silent Witness – Betrayal; award-winning Screen Ireland short Day Out, starring Martin McCann and Alisha Weir and Home, starring Max Irons, currently on the festival circuit. Previous television credits include Lord Haw-Haw for RTE 1; Money, Money, Money, RTE 2; the award-winning series Whores and IFTA-nominated series An Irish State of Mind for TG4. Virginia is also a published author. Her fiction work has featured on BBC Radio 4 and her debut novel, Travelling Companion, has been optioned for screen. Reawakening is her second feature as writer-director and her first as producer.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Irish Street Artist Asbestos and Ross Killeen, Director of Don't Forget to Remember. Subscribe to the Film Ireland podcast on your favourite platform here - https://linktr.ee/filmireland Don't Forget to Remember follows the Irish street artist Asbestos as he and his family learn to navigate his mother's diagnosis of Alzheimer's and cope with her fading memories.  The film is at once a moving portrait of one woman's memory loss but also a celebration of a family coming together in the face of this condition.  Throughout this process, Killeen turns the lens on Asbestos, investigating his artistic process and examining the role that art can play as a tool to heal throughout even the most turbulent times of our life. In cinemas from 6th September 2024. https://filmireland.net/ World Alzheimer's Month takes place every September and World Alzheimer's Day is on 21 September each year. It's a global opportunity to raise dementia awareness and support people affected by the disease. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/world-alzheimers-month

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Damian McCarthy, Writer/Director of Oddity. Oddity follows a blind medium who uncovers the truth behind her sister's death with the help of a frightening wooden mannequin. The cast includes Gwilym Lee (Bohemian Rhapsody), Carolyn Bracken (An Cailín Ciúin), Tadhg Murphy (The Northman), Caroline Menton (Altar Boys), Steve Wall (Dune: Part Two), Johnny French (The Rock in the Sea), Joe Rooney (Killinaskully), Shane Whisker (The Pope's Exorcist), and Ivan de Wergifosse (The Last Duel). Since its world premiere at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin, Texas, earlier this year, where it won the Midnighter Audience Award, the horror has gone on to win the Audience Award at the Overlook Film Festival in New Orleans and was nominated for Best Feature Film at the Neuchâtel International Fantastic Film Festival in Switzerland. The film is produced by Katie Holly (Extra Ordinary), Evan Horan (Caveat), Mette-Marie Kongsved (I Don't Feel at Home in This World Anymore), and Laura Tunstall (Come To Daddy) for Shudder, Keeper Pictures and Nowhere. In cinemas 30th August 2024

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Aoife Kelleher, Director of Mrs Robinson. Mrs Robinson tells Mary's story, in her own words, for the very first time - illuminating battles for justice and equality over half a century; on the streets, in the courts, at the ballot box, and in backroom corridors of power. A reforming constitutional lawyer and senator in her early career, Mary Robinson detonated an electoral earthquake by winning the Irish Presidential vote in 1990. Later, as a crusading UN High Commissioner, she built a lasting legacy; fearlessly challenging perpetrators of human rights abuses all over the world.To this day, she exerts power and leadership as the Chair of The Elders; the independent group of global leaders (founded by Nelson Mandela) who work for peace, justice and human rights. As an influential global voice, Mary Robinson is also spearheading Project Dandelion: a women-led climate justice campaign. Mrs Robinson was directed by Aoife Kelleher and produced by Cormac Hargaden and Trisha Canning for Loosehorse. Executive Producers on the film include Pat Mitchell (co-founder of Project Dandelion), Geralyn Dreyfous, Lyn Lear, Regina K. Scully, Ruth Ann Harnisch and Melony Lewis. The film was funded by Fís Éireann /Screen Ireland and the Fiscal Sponsorship programme of the Utah Film Center.

In this Film Ireland podcast, Gemma Creagh talks to Kevin O'Regan and Tommy Flavin, the co-founders of Crewless, a new platform for finding crew in Ireland created by industry professionals for industry professionals. Subscribe to the Film Ireland podcast on your favourite platform here - https://linktr.ee/filmireland Crewless was created by Kevin O'Regan and Tommy Flavin. They've been Founders and Creative Directors of The Reelists, a video production company based in Dublin, since 2015. As video producers, Kevin and Tommy have always been frustrated by how difficult it is to find freelance crew for their productions. Years of dealing with this problem inspired them to launch Crewless. They aim to transform the industry in Ireland, helping connect Producers with the thousands of talented freelancers up and down the country. Visit https://crewless.ie/ Contact Crewless at hello@crewless.ie https://filmireland.net/