All eyes on the Oscars for Meath stars of hit movies

Excitement is building throughout Co Meath ahead of this weekend's Oscar ceremony as hopes for a locally made film to win an Academy Award mount.

‘An Cailín Ciúin’ a feature film shot in locations around the county by Meath film maker Cleona Ní Chrualaoí has been nominated for the 95th Academy Awards in the ‘International Feature Film’ category of the Oscars.

The Longwood producer says she is “thrilled” that Meath will be showcased on the world stage. Much of the film was shot on location by Breakout Pictures in Summerhill, Moynalvey, Curraghtown, Garlow Cross, Trim and Clonymeath.

Speaking to the Meath Chronicle about the nomination Cleona said it was “the stuff of dreams.”

Up to 50 students from Lismullen National School took part as extras in the Meath made movie during its filming in 2020 with students said to be “buzzing with excitement” ahead of the awards.

Meanwhile John Reilly owner of Fagan’s pub in Moynalvey, used as a filming location says he has had scores of people in since the movie's release.

"It's fantastic for the community to be involved in such a huge film," he said. "We've had plenty of people in asking if this is the pub where it was filmed."

Kate McCullough from Gormonston's work on the film has already been recognised after winning Best European Cinematography for An Cailín Ciúin at this year’s European Film Awards

The Meath Oscar link doesn't end there with Moylagh man Oliver Farrelly appearing as a musician in an important pub scene in The Banshees of Inisheerin.

More more local Oscars coverage check out this week's Meath Chronicle!