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WATCH: Strong Irish showing for 2016 Academy Awards

President Michael D Higgins is leading the congratulations to what is being billed as a triumph f...
Newstalk
Newstalk

13.44 14 Jan 2016


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WATCH: Strong Irish showing fo...

WATCH: Strong Irish showing for 2016 Academy Awards

Newstalk
Newstalk

13.44 14 Jan 2016


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President Michael D Higgins is leading the congratulations to what is being billed as a triumph for Irish film at the 2016 Academy Awards.

Saoirse Ronan and Michael Fassbender feature among the Irish nominees.

"I am delighted to send my warmest congratulations to the Irish nominees on the occasion of the unprecedented strong Irish representation at the Oscars 2016", President Higgins said.

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"This year's Oscars shortlist is a remarkable testimony of the vitality and diversity of the talent available to the Irish film industry".

He said he welcomed the recognition for talents such as that of Saoirse Ronan, Michael Fassbender, Lenny Abrahamson and Emma Donoghue.

"To have Irish nominees represented in several categories indicates the depth of the international recognition for the talent that now exists", he added.

Ronan is up for Best Actress for her role in 'Brooklyn', while Michael Fassbender is up for the title role of 'Steve Jobs'.

In a statement, Saoirse Ronan said 'Brooklyn' "is the most personal film I have ever done, the hardest one too. I am honoured to represent this film with my friends... This has all been a dream". 

"An incredible day"

Irish co-production 'ROOM' is up for both Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Picture. While Brie Larson took a Best Actress nomination for her role in the picture.

Speaking on the nominations, 'ROOM' director Lenny Abrahamson said: "This is an incredible day for everyone involved in ROOM. Thank you to the Academy for honoring us with four nominations - it’s beyond all our wildest dreams". 

While 'ROOM' producer Ed Guiney added: "We are truly ecstatic. To get four nominations from the Academy especially these categories is truly amazing and beyond our wildest dreams".

"I am especially pleased for Lenny’s director nomination. He has done such an extraordinary job and its so brilliantly deserved. We are so grateful to our amazing cast and crew and to all our partners and financiers including of course the Irish Film Board".

'Brooklyn' is also up for the title of Best Picture. A Best Director nomination also went to Lenny Abrahamson for 'ROOM'.

The Arts Minister Heather Humphreys has also congratulated the nominees.

"I am delighted to see so many Irish actors and filmmakers nominated for this year’s Academy Awards. The Irish Film Industry is on a roll at the moment, having enjoyed numerous award successes in recent months, thanks to the hard work, talent and dedication of those in the sector".

"These Oscar nominations further enhance our reputation in the film industry internationally".

James Hickey, chief executive of Bord Scannán hÉireann/the Irish Film Board, said: "What a triumph for Irish film. It's a staggering achievement for the Irish film industry to be recognised amongst the very best in the world".

"For two independent feature films developed and produced in Ireland to be recognised amongst the best eight films in the world is phenomenal. It's a day for the Irish film industry and the entire country to be very proud. It truly is a golden age for Irish film".

The ceremony for the 88th Academy Awards will take place in Los Angeles on February 28th, hosted by comedian Chris Rock.

See all the nominees here


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