IFTAs – Boorman to get lifetime award

Despite being born in London, John Boorman has called Ireland home for nearly 40 years. In recognition of his extra-ordinary contribution to Irish cinema the Irish Film and Television Academy will bestow a special lifetime-achievement honour on the man.

Boorman, who directed such cinematic delights as Deliverance and Point Blank, has a particularly strong connection with Irish film having being the first Chairman of the Irish Film Board.

Numerous Irish stars and directors can trace their roots in cinema to this great man, including Liam Neeson, Gabriel Byrne and Ciaran Hinds who starred in his 1980 movie Excalibur, which was shot in Ireland. Neil Jordan also got his break from Boorman with the legendary director producing Jordan’s first feature film, Angel.

The General star, Brendan Gleeson, will be lead the tributes to Boorman at the IFTAs on February 20th, in The Burlington Hotel, Dublin, is quoted as saying “John Boorman has been at the centre of film-making in Ireland and has graced us with his vision and humanity.”

A thoroughly deserving winner, I applaud you Mr. Boorman.