The Irish short film ‘Whatever Turns You On’, directed by Declan Cassidy, has been selected as a finalist in the USA’s Aspen Shortsfest - while Danann Breathnach’s short film, ‘Foireann Codladh’ (Team Sleep), has been selected for upcoming international film festivals.
‘Whatever Turns You On’ at Aspen
This old and prestigious festival is considered as one of the ‘Oscar Qualifiers’ festivals – a win here sees one’s film eligible for entry to the Academy Awards.
The film has already notched up an impressive festival record, winning Best Film at Florence Film Festival in Italy, Best Film at Filmstock Film Festival in Britain and Best Irish Short at Kerry Film Festival.
“This is great news,” said Cassidy. “The film has thankfully been really well received at festivals around the world but Aspen always attracts a huge number of entries because it’s a stepping stone to the Oscars so to be a finalist here is particularly exciting.”
The Irish Film Board funded short tells the story of a homeless man who arrives at a large electronics store on a mission to make a purchase – much to the discomfort of the security guard and the bemusement of the shop assistant.
Short film ‘Rip and the Preacher’ which tells the story of a challenged street preacher has also been selected to screen at the festival. The short was produced through Northern Ireland Screen's Digital Shorts Programme.
‘Foireann Codladh’ (Team Sleep)
Danann Breathnach’s short film, ‘Foireann Codladh’ (Team Sleep), has picked up a few Official Selections in major upcoming international film festivals including the Chicago Irish Film Festival, USA, Cleveland International Film Festival, USA and Roma Independent Film Festival, Italy.
Since premiering at the Cork Film Festival last October and the IFB funded short won not only the Best Short in the Irish Language, but also received a Special Mention in the Best Irish Short category.
