Awards celebrate young Derry filmmakers

The awards, which are held annually in Brunswick Moviebowl and sponsored by City of Derry Crystal, acknowledge the best work produced by Moving Image Arts GCSE and A Level students across Northern Ireland in seven categories.

Louis Christopher Kerr from St. Columb’s College received the top prize award in the GCSE Best Film Category, while Louise Adair from Foyle College took home second prize for A2 Best Film.

The winning films and animations were also given their first cinematic screening during the ceremony in Brunswick Moviebowl which was attended by Ingrid Arthurs Education Manager at Moving Image Arts and Journalism CCEA, Michael Bond of City of Derry Crystal and representatives from the Foyle Film Festival.

Congratulating the winners, Bernie McLaughlin, Foyle Film Festival Director and Programmer said: ‘This year’s winners represent the future of Northern Ireland’s filmmaking industry and as the regions only Oscar-affiliated festival, it is our pleasure to show their work on the big screen. We wish all the students continued success in their studies and careers.’

Foyle Film Festival is funded by the Department of Communities through Northern Ireland Screen and by Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Speaking at the event, Bernard McCloskey, Head of Education at Northern Ireland Screen said: “Congratulations to all the students who have had their work screened at this year’s Moving Image Arts Showcase, you all have so much to be proud of. At Northern Ireland Screen we want to continue to cultivate this immense talent and keep Northern Ireland as a prominent base for film making and animation. Events such as the MIA showcase is a stepping stone for many of these students to a future career in the ever-growing industry.”