In pictures: Lenny Abrahamson and others in Cork for launch of Fastnet Film Festival

Director Lenny Abrahamson and his daughter Nell Abrahamson at the Fastnet Film Festival launch party at The Crane Lane. Picture: Gerard McCarthy.
The spotlight will be on Schull this May as the Fastnet Film Festival returns with a stellar line-up from May 21 to May 25.
The Fastnet Film Festival’s programme was recently unveiled at a launch party at Crane Lane in Cork city.

This year promises a mix of Hollywood stars, screenings, panels, masterclasses, and special guest events in the stunning village of Schull.

The Fastnet Film Festival is a short film festival without a cinema, providing those who attend with many alternatives, from screenings on Cape Clear, the village hall, local hotel, cafés, and numerous local pubs and restaurants in town.

The Festival focuses on the craft of filmmaking, hosting seminars, workshops, and masterclasses with industry experts on all aspects of the film industry.

Fringe events include a film quiz, live music, and family entertainment.

Over 500 short films from over 40 countries are entered into competition each year for a share in the cash prize fund of €45,000.

As part of this year’s celebration of film, stars including Maria Doyle Kennedy, who has starred in more than 50 films and TV series including The General, Wolfwalkers, The Tudors, Downton Abbey, Orphan Black, Outlander, Kin, and Father Ted; Barry Keoghan, multi-award winning actor revered for his intense and versatile performances; and Domhnall Gleeson, whose career spans critically acclaimed films such as Star Wars, Ex Machina, Brooklyn, and The Revenant, will join in the festivities in Schull.

Irish film director Lenny Abrahamson was among the guests in attendance at the Fastnet Film Festival launch event in Cork city last week.

The festival will take place from Wednesday, May 21 to Sunday, May 25.