A Northern Irish short film is gaining major attention as it reaches the top 15 in the 'Live Action Short' category at the 2023 Oscars.
An Irish Goodbye, written and directed by East Belfast filmmaker Ross White and his creative partner Tom Berkeley, is one step closer to an Academy Award after being selected from over 200 films.
The Academy of Motion Pictures will choose between three and five short films to go forward and compete at the Oscars in March with the nominations being announced on January 24.
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It is the only film from the UK and Ireland to make the top 15 in the category this year.
Commenting on their Oscars success so far, Ross and Tom said: “The whole team is absolutely overwhelmed that An Irish Goodbye has been recognised by the Academy in this way.
"It’s completely surreal to think that a wee film shot in Templepatrick is now rubbing shoulders with our cinematic heroes on an international stage.
"Only time can tell how far we will go, but we’re honoured to be representing the UK & Ireland in the category.
"We cannot wait to introduce the film to a wider audience – thank you to everyone who has supported us in the journey so far!"
Set against the backdrop of a working farm in rural Northern Ireland, An Irish Goodbye is a black comedy following the reunion of estranged brothers Turlough and Lorcan following the untimely death of their mother.
Under the watchful eye of odd-ball parish priest Father O’Shea, the brothers’ pained reunion is worsened by the fact Turlough must now make new care arrangements for Lorcan, who has Down Syndrome.
A robust and dedicated farmer, Lorcan’s dream of continuing to work the land he grew up on is thwarted when Turlough decides he’s sending him to live with their Aunt on the other side of Ireland.
But when the brothers discover an unfulfilled bucket list belonging to their late mother, Lorcan senses an opportunity: he’ll only agree to leave the farm once he and Turlough have themselves completed every single wish on their mother’s list…all one hundred of them.
The film stars Seamus O’Hara (The Northman, Game of Thrones), James Martin (Marcella, Ups and Downs), Paddy Jenkins (Hunger) and Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones, Fortitude).
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, added: "We are incredibly proud of Tom and Ross and all the talented crew that made this wonderful short film.
"Special mention must also go to James who is an inspiration to so many and his starring role can only encourage more people from diverse backgrounds to follow their dreams and consider opportunities within the screen industry."
An Irish Goodbye is the second short film from the duo and is produced by Floodlight Pictures with support from Northern Ireland Screen and BFI.
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