The Dawn of Irish Cinema
The first known Irish film, "The Lad from Old Ireland," was produced by the Kalem Company. Directed by Sidney Olcott, it marked the beginning of Ireland's journey in the cinematic world.
1910
1916
Cinematographic Record of the Easter Rising
During the Easter Rising, British Pathé produced newsreels that documented the events, providing an early example of cinema's role in recording historical events in Ireland.
1936
Establishment of the Irish Film Society
The Irish Film Society was founded to promote the appreciation of film as an art form and to support the development of Irish cinema.
1948
Formation of Ardmore Studios
Ardmore Studios was established in Bray, County Wicklow, becoming Ireland's first major film studio and a significant hub for film production.
1959
Release of "Darby O'Gill and the Little People"
Walt Disney's "Darby O'Gill and the Little People" showcased Irish folklore and featured a young Sean Connery, bringing international attention to Irish-themed cinema.
1975
Foundation of the Irish Film Board
The Irish Film Board (Bord Scannán na hÉireann) was established to support and promote the Irish film industry through funding and development initiatives.
1982
Release of "The Dead"
Directed by John Huston and based on James Joyce's short story, "The Dead" was a critical success and highlighted Ireland's literary and cinematic heritage.
1993
Success of "The Snapper"
Directed by Stephen Frears and based on Roddy Doyle's novel, "The Snapper" became a beloved Irish film, known for its humor and portrayal of Dublin life.
1996
International Acclaim for "Michael Collins"
Neil Jordan's "Michael Collins," starring Liam Neeson, depicted the life of the Irish revolutionary leader and received widespread acclaim, further establishing Irish cinema on the world stage.
1998
Oscar Win for "The Crying Game"
Neil Jordan's "The Crying Game" won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, highlighting the global impact of Irish filmmakers.
2003
Success of "Intermission"
"Intermission," directed by John Crowley, became a critical and commercial success, showcasing the talents of Irish actors like Colin Farrell and Cillian Murphy.
2006
Release of "The Wind That Shakes the Barley"
Ken Loach's "The Wind That Shakes the Barley," depicting the Irish War of Independence, won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, bringing international recognition to Irish historical cinema.
2015
Success of "Brooklyn"
Directed by John Crowley and based on Colm Tóibín's novel, "Brooklyn" received multiple Oscar nominations and showcased the talents of Saoirse Ronan, further solidifying Ireland's presence in global cinema.
2018
Release of "The Favourite"
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and featuring Irish actress Olivia Colman, "The Favourite" received critical acclaim and numerous awards, highlighting the contributions of Irish talent to international cinema.
2020
Global Success of "Normal People"
The television adaptation of Sally Rooney's novel "Normal People," produced by Element Pictures, gained international acclaim and brought attention to contemporary Irish storytelling.
2023
Oscar Nomination for "An Cailín Ciúin"
"An Cailín Ciúin" (The Quiet Girl), an Irish-language film directed by Colm Bairéad, received an Oscar nomination for Best International Feature, marking a significant milestone for Irish-language cinema.
