Northern Ireland’s short film ‘An Irish Goodbye’ wins big at the Baftas

Congratulations 👏

Author: Emma DicksonPublished 20th Feb 2023

An Irish Goodbye, written and directed by Tom Berkeley and Ross White, won the BAFTA for Best British Short Film at last night’s BAFTA awards ceremony in London.

The film stars Seamus O’Hara (Game of Thrones), James Martin (Marcella), Michelle Fairley (Game of Thrones) and Paddy Jenkins (Hunger).

Filmed entirely in Northern Ireland, An Irish Goodbye, is a black comedy about the reunion of estranged brothers Turlough and Lorcan following the untimely death of their mother.

Under the watchful eye of odd-ball parish priest Father O’Shea, the brothers’ pained reunion is worsened by the fact Turlough must now make new care arrangements for Lorcan, who has Down Syndrome.

A robust and dedicated farmer, Lorcan’s dream of continuing to work the land he grew up on is thwarted when Turlough decides he’s sending him to live with their aunt on the other side of Ireland.

When the brothers discover an unfulfilled bucket list belonging to their late mother, Lorcan senses an opportunity: he’ll only agree to leave the farm once he and Turlough have themselves completed every single wish on their mother’s list…all one hundred of them.

WATCH the moment 'An Irish Goodbye' wins 👇

The short is also nominated for an Oscar next month, in the 'Best Live Action Short Film' category.

Speaking ahead of the red-carpet ceremony on March 13th, writers and directors Tom Berkeley and Ross White commented, “The whole team is absolutely overwhelmed that An Irish Goodbye has been recognised by the Academy in this way.

“It’s completely surreal to think that a wee film shot in Templepatrick is now rubbing shoulders with our cinematic heroes on an international stage. Only time can tell how far we will go, but we’re honoured to be representing the UK & Ireland in the category.

“We cannot wait to introduce the film to a wider audience - thank you to everyone who has supported us in the journey so far!”

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