Limerick City of Culture in partnership with Behind the Scenes have announced the creation of a unique and exciting scheme, titled Film Limerick. This scheme offers an opportunity for new and emerging filmmakers to have their films produced with both funding and industry support.
Two successful applicants will receive up to €15,000 towards production of their film. The only stipulation being that filming must take place in Limerick. Each of the selected applicants will also receive advice and support during production. The first screening of the two completed films will take place in Limerick as part of Limerick City of Culture 2014, and the filmmakers will be encouraged to submit the films to festivals both in Ireland and abroad.
Film Limerick Project Manager Ronan Cassidy explains, “This funding initiative aims to nurture creative filmmaking. At the heart of the Film Limerick project is the aim to shine a spotlight on Limerick as a film destination and to enable Limerick to realise its potential as a film producing hub. This will facilitate the long term goal of encouraging both established and emerging filmmakers to use Limerick as a location. It also aims to develop a number of projects that form part of the legacy for Limerick in 2014, during its year as National City of Culture.”
Welcoming the scheme Naoise Barry, Film Commissioner with the Irish Film Board, said “Bord Scannán na hÉireann welcomes the establishment of Film Limerick and also the appointment of Ronan as Project Manager. Local knowledge and on the ground support is very important when trying to attract indigenous and international filmmakers to a region. It is very encouraging to see that both Limerick City of Culture and Behind the Scenes recognise the importance of supporting both local and incoming filmmaking talent. We look forward to working with Ronan to promote Limerick as a potential location for film and television through the IFB’s Network of Regional Film Offices”.
Since its inception in 2011 Behind the Scenes has worked to promote film, TV and video production in Limerick and the Mid-West area. The Film Limerick Scheme, which is testament to the professional network that Behind the Scenes now represents in the region, will showcase a unique opportunity to cement Limerick as a film making hub of the Mid-West.
Film Limerick is now open for entries. The closing date for applications is: Monday 1st September 2014. For more information check out the Behind the Scenes website or email filmlimerick@behindthescenes.ie.