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  • James Hickey Welcomes Recent Debate on Irish Film and Speaks about his Optimism for the future of the Industry

James Hickey Welcomes Recent Debate on Irish Film and Speaks about his Optimism for the future of the Industry

Welcoming the recent debate over the Irish film industry, James Hickey, Chief Executive, Bord Scannan na hEireann/the Irish Film Board has spoken to the Sunday Independent and the Irish Times with regard to his thoughts on the sector. James Hickey's full statement is here:

"Over the last week the comments of director John Michael McDonagh have sparked a heated and interesting debate about the current state of the Irish film industry, a debate which is healthy for the industry and to be welcomed. I have already commented on Calvary which is a very successful Irish film, telling an exciting and challenging Irish story with Irish creative talent in front of and behind the camera.

"John Michael McDonagh is entitled to his opinion on Irish film. The role of the Irish Film Board is to invest in the development of Irish talent in front of and behind the camera and to ensure that Irish audiences have the opportunity to see Irish stories on film. I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to work with the wonderful creative talent working in the sector and I would not agree with John Michael McDonagh's comments on Irish film.

"The Irish Film Board has been investing in Irish stories on film for over twenty years and the industry has come a very long way during this time.  Not every film will become a major hit and the same can be said of independent and studio films from countries across the world, including Hollywood.  But there is a strong body of work which we can be proud of. Important Irish stories have been produced on film for a wide variety of audiences including 'What Richard Did', 'The Secret of Kells', 'Pilgrim Hill', 'Adam & Paul' 'The Hardy Bucks Movie', 'Good Vibrations', 'The Summit', 'The Stag', 'Rough Rider', 'His and Hers', 'Garage' and 'Adam and Paul' amongst many others.

"These films have been enjoyed by Irish audiences and have been recognised across the globe for their excellent work.  I'm also proud that Irish actors, who have established themselves internationally such as Brendan Gleeson, Colin Farrell, Saoirse Ronan, Cillian Murphy, Domhnall Gleeson, Jack Reynor and many more have gone on to represent Ireland in major international films. 

"Because of Irish Film Board investment Irish children for generations to come will also have the opportunity to see Irish stories on film, including the Oscar nominated 'The Secret of Kells' and the upcoming animated feature film ‘Song of The Sea' directed by Tomm Moore, which is one of the most beautiful animated films I have seen, based on Irish folklore and stories.

"I am very optimistic about the future of the Irish film industry. I am looking forward to seeing what filmmakers such as Lenny Abrahamson, Ken Wardrop, John Butler, John Carney  and Tomm Moore amonst many other directors make next. I'm looking forward to seeing the work of Irish actors including Saoirse Ronan, Domhnall Gleeson and Colin Farrell in the Irish films they made this year. And I'm looking forward to Irish audiences having the opportunity to see upcoming Irish films including 'Brooklyn' directed by John Crowley with Saoirse Ronan and Domhnall Gleeson, ‘Glassland' directed by Gerard Barrett starring Jack Reynor, and Tom Moore's 'Song of the Sea'.  

"I believe in the importance of a national cinema, the opportunity for Irish filmmakers to make Irish stories on film and I believe the future for Irish film is bright."

If you want to read more about the recent debate the following links may be of interest: