Sun shines in Schull as Fastnet Film Festival brings star power to West Cork 

Stars and industry figures mingled with aspiring filmmakers and movie fans in the village over the five-day event 

Film director Brendan Canty pictured in Schull for the Fastnet Film Festival with Lorraine Hogan and Ayla Amano. Picture: Larry Cummins

The comparisons to Cannes come easily on a sunny weekend in Schull as at the Fastnet Film Festival sees the West Cork village become the centre of the Irish movie world. And while Schull may have the stars, the weather and the beautiful sea-side views, one equivalent doesn’t have with the concurrent French event is the fuss.

‘The world’s friendliest film festival’ takes place in a hugely-relaxed environment, with big names strolling unbothered along the main street, and a sense that all concerned are here because they genuinely enjoy it.