2016 began in unprecedented Oscar glory for Irish film talent and continued to be a phenomenally successful year for Irish film with major international exposure for major titles and breakout hits with local audiences.
Building on the success achieved through films like Room, Brooklyn, The Lobster, Love and Friendship, The Young Offenders and A Date for Mad Mary, actors, directors, producers and animators have continued to be recognised for their work by both audiences and critics at home and abroad throughout 2016.
In recognition of the success of Irish film talent, and of the phenomenal growth potential for film and TV content globally, the audio-visual sector is identified as a priority area by Government in its ‘Action Plan for Jobs’, and throughout 2016 Irish Film Board has been working with partners in the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the IDA to drive and support sustained growth in the industry, and to promote Ireland internationally as a premier film location.
James Hickey, CEO, of the Irish Film Board:“Established and emerging Irish film talent have been making their mark in both the international and domestic markets in 2016. The success is not only measurable in box office figures and awards, but also in deserved recognition from critics and industry peers. Much has been achieved in 2016 and in our five-year strategy which we launched this July, we remain ambitious in our plans and aspirations for industry.”
