Local film maker says Oscar nod will showcase Meath on the world stage

The Longwood film maker whose feature film was nominated for an Oscar this week says she is "thrilled" that Meath will be showcased on the world stage.

On Tuesday it was announced that 'An Cailín Ciúin' a feature film made in Co, Meath by Longwood film maker Cleona Ní Chrualaoi was one of the nominees for The 95th Academy Awards in the ‘International Feature Film’ category of the Oscars. The film makes history as the first Irish-language feature film to be nominated in this category.

Based on Claire Keegan's novella Foster, An Cailín Ciúin is an intricate, deeply felt coming-of-age drama that delves into the meaning of family through the eyes of a neglected young girl.

Much of the film was shot on location by Breakout Pictures in Summerhill, Moynalvey, Curraghtown, Garlow Cross, Trim and Clonymeath.

Last week it was announced that the film was also nominated for two Baftas including best film not in the English language and for adapted screenplay for its writer-director, Colm Bairéad.

The film has had even more success recently with Gormonston native Kate McCullough receiving the award for Best European Cinematography for An Cailín Ciúin at this year’s European Film Awards. Kate is the first Irish woman to receive this award and the fourth female in the world to get the gong.

Gormonston native Kate McCullough receiving the award for Best European Cinematography for An Cailín Ciúin at this year’s European Film Awards.

Speaking to The Meath Chronicle this week, Cleona Ní Chrualaoi said the nomination is "the stuff of dreams," she added:

"I don't think it has properly sunk in yet to be honest.

"It's amazing, we were so nervous beforehand and we had all gathered together in Dublin so it was the waiting and the expectation but it was just incredible when we saw The Quiet Girl come up on the screen.

"We were the last to be called, we knew it would because it goes in alphabetical order. But then it was complete elation, we all jumped up and down and were hugging, we were just ecstatic!

"It's just dream stuff really. Occasionally myself and Colm would go let's just dream for a minute, imagine being nominated for an Oscar but we never really allowed ourselves to go there.

"You never think that far ahead making a film.

"We always knew that there would be a possibility that we would be Ireland's selection with IFTA but you just take the journey as it comes."

Cleona's love for the Irish language has roots in her time as a student of Coláiste Pobail in Ráth Chairn as she explains.

"I always had a real gra for Irish and became fluent when I went to Rath Cairn. I used to stay with a Bean An Ti there during the week so I was really immersed in the language. There was a seed sown at that time for sure. My mum is a native speaker from Donegal. Irish has always been a part of my life."

The film producer says it's a bonus that Meath where the film was made will also get its moment of glory.

"It's so lovely for Meath to get that recognition, the film is travelling the world, it is being shown in cinemas in Australia, Korea and it will be in the States and across Europe and the beautiful locations of Meath will be showcased."

The Quiet Girl

It's a busy few weeks ahead for the husband and wife team who have a host of award ceremonies coming up.

"We have the Baftas as well, that's coming up on the 19th of February. The film is being released in the States at the end of next month so there's a huge amount going on and it is being released in other territories as well like Italy and Spain and other countries after that. February is going to be a very busy month!

"There are different occasions as well that you have to go to as part of the Oscars. There is a luncheon that will be held in LA where all the nominees come together so there's a lot to look forward to!"