IFB Features and Shorts in the Spotlight at Seattle International Film Festival
The Seattle International Film Festival is now underway, with a dynamic choice of IFB-funded feature films and shorts screening in the Emerald City.
Gerard Barrett’s acclaimed Glassland which was released in Irish cinemas in April is amongst the lineup. The film received strong reviews, in particular for the performances of lead actors Jack Reynor, Toni Collette and Will Poulter. Glassland is Barrett’s second film as writer and director after Pilgrim Hill.
Corin Hardy’s The Hallow follows a happy couple and their newborn baby as they move to an old house on the edge of an Irish forest controlled by an ancient race of mythical creatures—and they do not like to be disturbed. The Hallow is Hardy’s debut feature film and premiered in Official Selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
Aoife Kelleher’s documentary One Million Dubliners was released in late 2014 to critical acclaim and a strong reaction from viewers. Exploring the necropolis of Glasnevin Cemetery in North Dublin, the film has won multiple awards since its premiere, including as the joint winner of the Best Irish Feature Documentary award at last year’s Galway Film Fleadh.
Strangerland also debuted in Official Selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Directed by Kim Farrant, Strangerland stars Nicole Kidman, Joseph Fiennes as parents whose relationship is pushed to the brink when their two teenage children disappear into the remote Australian desert. Also starring Hugo Weaving.
In the Short Film section of the festival, Brian Deane’s Céad Ghrá (First Love) is screening, which follows two best friends who embark upon a friendly rivalry in pursuit of their mutual first crush. Céad Ghrá will also play in Starbucks Coffeehouses across the US during the festival.
Tom Sullivan’s short Personal Development also screens, which follows a father whose already fragile relationship with his youngest daughter is put to the test with the arrival of some unexpected news. Personal Development was chosen for Official Selection at the Tribeca Film Festival in April.
The Seattle International Film Festival takes place from May 14 to June 7 2015.