The Boyne Valley International Film Festival turns two this week with screenings, workshops, awards and a close-up on filmmakers in the region.
After a successful debut in 2022, the festival is back in Drogheda's Droichead Arts Centre from Friday 11 to Sunday 13 August, showcasing work from filmmakers including Mia Mullarkey, Hannah Mamalis, Derek Ugochukwu, Pollyanna McIntosh, Myles O'Reilly, Aaron Monaghan and Clare Monnelly, among others.
Businesses in Drogheda have been invited to dress their windows in a film theme to support local talent and welcome visitors.
As part of the festival's programme of national and international short films, the Made in the Boyne Valley award will celebrate shorts from the region.
The awards for Best Irish Narrative Short, Best International Narrative Short, Best Animated Short and Best Documentary Short will also be presented.
The filmmakers shortlisted for the festival's 2023 bursary are: Katie Murphy (The Queen of Puck), Fionnuala Gygax (The Island), Tania Notaro (Men of Fighting Age) and Conor McCormick (Baby Bunker).
This year, the work of filmmakers Aaron Monaghan and Clare Monnelly will be in focus during the festival.
"We have been impressed by their work as actors, writers and directors over the years, both individually and together," explained festival co-directors Frank W Kelly and Collette Farrell in a statement.
"Their talent, work ethic, and capacity to collaborate is impressive. Their ability to create quality work that further develops the field of short filmmaking is inspiring.
"Also, as a couple, who are parents working in this industry, we hope to discuss how creative families navigate an artist's life, especially in the film industry."
For full details of the festival programme and tickets, visit: droichead.com.
