FilmOffaly in association with Filmbase announces the FilmOffaly Award 2010
FilmOffaly and Filmbase have announced the FilmOffaly Award for 2010. The FilmOffaly Award is designed to support and encourage filmmakers to undertake innovative, creative projects. FilmOffaly are looking for unique, original stories by talented new filmmakers, professional and novice alike. The only stipulation is that the filming must take place in Offaly!FilmOffaly operates under the aegis of Offaly County Council and presents the scheme in association with Filmbase, a support organisation for the independent film and video sector in Ireland. In addition to a prize of €8,000 towards production costs, the winning entry will also be granted a premiere in the Tullamore Omniplex Cinema, one year's Filmbase membership, 50% discount on production equipment and/or editing facilities from Filmbase for the project, and Filmbase's production insurance to cover the shoot.
The scheme was introduced in 2009 and attracted in excess of 100 scripts. The prize was scooped by Domhnall Gleeson for his short comedy Noreen. During the cold spell in January award winning actor, Brendan Gleeson, and the cast and crew filmed on location in and around Shannonbridge. Noreen will premiere exclusively in the Tullamore Omniplex in the coming months.
Announcing the award, Mr. Pat Gallagher, County Manager, Offaly County Council noted the importance, even in such difficult economic times, of supporting the creative arts and the important role a vibrant arts scene plays in the general well-being of a community's life. He also remarked on the practical benefits attached to supporting creative industries in Offaly and to the FilmOffaly Award. "The winning entry and subsequent production will showcase the county on a national and international stage. Local or visiting production companies will use local resources to meet their requirements, generating significant inward investment", said Mr Gallagher.
The closing date for the receipt of completed applications is 3.30pm on Friday, 14th May 2010. Further details, guidelines and an application form are available to download from http://www.filmoffaly.ie/, or by emailing filmoffaly@offalycoco.ie, or by calling Offaly County Council Arts Section 057 9357400.