In 2023, Ireland and the United Kingdom were the settings for some remarkable films, showcasing a variety of genres and themes. Here’s a look at five standout films from each country:
5 Remarkable Films Filmed in Ireland in 2023:
#1. "I Dream in Photos"
Directed by Gary Lennon and Ollie Aslin, this documentary profiles Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Cathal McNaughton, exploring his life and work, particularly his coverage of the Rohingya Muslims, which won him the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 2018.
#2. "So This is Christmas"
A film by Ken Wardrop premiered in November 2023. It captures the festive spirit across Ireland, with scenes of Christmas trees being bought, festive music, and the scramble for presents.
#3. "Ó Bhéal"
Directed by Ciara Nic Cormaic, this film is a cinematic exploration of the rise of Hip Hop and Electronic artists in Ireland. It features Irish language rappers and musicians, delving into their creative processes and the new fusion sound they are developing.
#4. "Stolen"
A documentary by Margo Harkin, premiering at the Dublin International Film Festival. It tells the story of several survivors of mother and baby homes, a scandal that led to a government inquiry in Ireland.
#5. "Lies We Tell"
Directed by Lisa Mulcahy, this film tells the story of an orphaned heiress forced to confront her family’s dark legacy. It features a cast including David Wilmot, Holly Sturton, and Chris Walley.
5 Remarkable Films Filmed in the United Kingdom in 2023:
#1. "Typist Artist Pirate King"
Directed by Carol Morley, this roadtrip drama stars Monica Dolan as Audrey Amiss, an artist journeying across Britain, and is known for its charm, wit, and poignant storytelling.
#2. "How to Have Sex"
A vibrant, funny drama directed by Molly Manning Walker. It’s a coming-of-age story that thoughtfully examines gender dynamics and consent, and is tipped for recognition at the BIFAs and BAFTAs.
#3. "Blue Jean"
Georgia Oakley’s award-winning debut film tells the story of a lesbian PE teacher in the 1980s Britain, struggling to keep her private life under wraps under Section 28. It stars Rosy McEwen.
#4. "Tish"
This documentary, directed by Paul Sng, pays tribute to the work of photographer Tish Murtha, known for her vivid black-and-white portraits capturing life in her local community.
#5. "Klokkenluider"
A darkly humorous thriller by Neil Maskell, focusing on a couple of whistleblowers caught in a precarious situation. It’s noted for its character-driven narrative and intriguing plot.
As we usher in the New Year, it’s time to reflect on the cinematic masterpieces that graced screens in 2023. From Ireland’s introspective “I Dream in Photos” to the UK’s thought-provoking “Klokkenluider,” these films showcased the diverse talent and storytelling prowess of filmmakers from both regions.
A New Year Full of Possibilities
Happy New Year to all! 2023’s films are just a glimpse of the potential within the UK and Ireland’s film industry. As we look forward to more inspiring stories and captivating performances, we’re excited for what 2024 has in store.
Roman Begun's Notable Contributions to Film in the Last Few Years
"Vikings: Valhalla" - Directed by Jeb Stuart
In “Vikings: Valhalla,” created by Jeb Stuart for Netflix, Roman worked alongside a talented cast, including Sam Corlett, Frida Gustavsson, and Leo Suter. This series, filmed in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a sequel to History’s “Vikings” and has received acclaim for its gripping portrayal of historical drama.
"The Last Duel" - Directed by Ridley Scott
Roman also appeared in Ridley Scott’s “The Last Duel,” a film based on Eric Jager’s book and featuring stars like Matt Damon, Adam Driver, and Jodie Comer. His participation in this historical drama underscores his ability to contribute to high-profile, critically acclaimed films.
"Cleanup Crew" - Directed by Jon Keeyes
In the action-packed “Cleanup Crew,” directed by Jon Keeyes and starring Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Melissa Leo, and Antonio Banderas, Roman further demonstrated his skill in handling intense action sequences, contributing significantly to the film’s thrilling narrative.
Conclusion: Roman Begun's Unique Contribution to the Film Industry
As we usher in 2024, we celebrate talents like Roman Begun, who epitomize the blend of skill, adaptability, and authenticity that define the modern film industry. His multilingual ability and Eastern European background add depth to his performances, making him an ideal choice for diverse roles in film projects across Dublin, Belfast, and London. Let’s look forward to another year of storytelling excellence, featuring talents like Roman who continue to push the boundaries of cinematic art.
