Sundance boost for Irish films

IRELAND’S filmmakers are set to shine at next year’s Sundance Film Festival after two Irish feature films were selected from more than 9,000 international submissions.

Irish comedy thriller The Guard starring Brendan Gleeson, and Irish documentary Knuckle, directed by Ian Palmer, will both have their world premieres at the world-famous festival which takes place from January 20.

The Guard is a comedy about a small-town cop with a confrontational personality, a subversive sense of humour and a fondness for prostitutes; while Knuckle tells the story of a 12-year journey into the world of an Irish Traveller community.

These films follow on from the Irish success at the 2010 festival, when Irish box office hit His & Hers scooped the prize for Excellence in Cinematography and received a host of positive reviews.

The Sundance Film Festival, which was founded by Robert Redford, is a world-renowned showcase for the best in new independent cinema.

Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport, Mary Hanafin, described the selection of the two films as “extremely positive” for Irish culture.

“The Irish film industry is a real beacon for the economy as it contributes both to employment and in generating foreign income both directly and indirectly.

“It is a marvellous achievement for film-makers, actors and all involved in the industry and once again shows the great track record that Irish film-makers have internationally.”