Next weekend she’ll walk the red carpet for the world’s biggest film awards. And last night Cork animator Nora Twomey was in celebratory mode at the Irish premiere of her acclaimed new film.

The rude health of the film industry in this country is underlined by the presence of 10 Irish offerings at the prestigious festival, writes Esther McCarthy

With a wealth of prestigious awards, including several Oscar nominations, under its belt, the Irish animation industry worth an estimated €100m continues its rise to the top.

Yesterday saw the release date of a film by Kilkenny-based Cartoon Saloon, entitled Song of the Sea, which earlier this year was nominated for an Academy Award.