Limerick’s young creatives are set to take centre stage at this year’s Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards
Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards (IYFTYs) will take place at Omniplex Cinema in Rathmines, Dublin this Thursday, April 10 at 8 pm. The ceremony will also be broadcast on YouTube for the first time, allowing audiences worldwide to watch the action unfold.
Among the lineup of nominees is ‘Barracuda’ by Izzy Dalton, representing the vibrant Emerging Limerick Filmmakers collective based in Limerick City. Also flying the Limerick flag is 13-year-old Mikey Mahon from Corbally with his short film ‘Cinemaniacs’, a finalist in the Junior category. Kilmallock Primary School students are also in the running with their short production, ‘Dial S for Sandwich,’ proving that age is no barrier to bold creativity.
In partnership with Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, The Arts Council, and Omniplex Cinema Group, the festival aims to focus on young creative talents and encourage them to explore filmmaking as a career path. Jayne Foley, Artistic Director of Fresh Film, expresses her excitement: “With a record-breaking number of entries, it’s clear that young filmmakers are thriving.
“We’re thrilled to bring this celebration to a global audience through our YouTube premiere,” she shares.
This year sees a fresh wave of talent take centre stage, including comedian and viral content creator Justine Stafford, who will host alongside RTE and BBC regular Hannah Mamalis. Faye Shortt will bring viewers behind the scenes from Omniplex Cinema.
In its 29th year, the IYFTYs continue to be a launching pad for Ireland’s brightest young creatives. Past participants include Oscar-nominated director Vincent Lambe and acclaimed filmmaker Dónal Foreman.
Mark Anderson, Director of Omniplex Cinema Group, comments on the “fantastic” opportunity for young talent to see their work on the big screen. “We are delighted to support Fresh Film in showcasing the creativity and ambition of young filmmakers. Cinema has always been a place for storytelling, and it’s inspiring to see the next generation share their voices on the big screen.”
The awards will be handed out afterwards in several categories, including Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Most Sustainable Production. There are also special recognitions like the RTÉ Factual Award and the Radharc Trust Award for documentaries.
You can watch the IYFTYs live on YouTube on Thursday at 8 pm.
More info at freshfilm.ie and omniplextheatres.ie
Link to broadcast: https://www.youtube.com/@freshfilmfestival