Photos and Review: Louth international Film Festival a huge success

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The Louth International Film Festival in association with Dundalk Institute of Technology celebrated the conclusion of its 4th edition with resounding success, continuing its commitment to hospitality, education and nurturing emergent talent.

Notable industry figures and local enthusiasts flocked to the festival, which boasted an array of films ranging from the heartwarming opener "Dublin Crust" to the deeply poignant documentary "The Eastern Front".

With the esteemed Director Dearbhla Walsh introduced as a festival patron, and the participation of renowned personalities such as Actress Pollyanna Macintosh, Director Frank Berry, and IFTA winner Pat Shortt, LIFF's dedication to cultivating strong industry ties shone through.

"The Troubles: A Dublin Story", which received considerable support from Dundalk during its production, was particularly notable with its visuals and storytelling, with tickets selling out rapidly.

For documentary aficionados, "The Eastern Front" and "ONUleaks" stood out, with local filmmaker Frankie Fenton providing invaluable insights. "Cat Burning Ultras", a directorial venture by Alex Sheehan, further captivated the audience, especially during a Q&A that delved into the synergy between music and cinema.

Award Winners:

• **Best International Feature:** Our Island of the Mangrove Moons
• **Best Feature Documentary:** The Eastern Front
• **Best International Short:** ONUleaks
• **Best Student Short:** Pull Back the Curtain
• **Best in Louth:** Dublin Crust
• **Best Short Documentary:** Canine
• **Best Feature Fiction:** Aisha
• **Best Actor:** Eanna Hardwicke for Lamb and Lakelands
• **Best Short Fiction:** Wise Woman
• **Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director:** Jamie O'Rourke for Calf
• **Seamus McGarvey Award for Best Cinematography:** Quicksand by Eleanor Bowman
• **Audience Choice Award:** Headspace

Reflecting on the festival's success, Lorcan Dunne, Festival Co-Director and DkIT Lecturer remarked, "We're delighted with this year's festival and very grateful for the support from the industry and local community. A huge congratulations to all the award recipients. We're buzzing with anticipation for next year's edition and the ongoing evolution of this festival."

IFTA winner Pat Shortt added, "The festival really looks after its guests and Dundalk is a fantastic hub for the arts. I'm already looking forward to next year!"

Having established itself as a mainstay in the festival circuit in just four years, LIFF's foundational values of hospitality and education, combined with its emphasis on filmmaker growth, set the stage for a promising future.