Louth International Film Festival returns for its 5th Year
The Louth International Film Festival (LIFF) is set to return on September 27, 28, and 29
Film enthusiasts and industry professionals, mark your calendars! The Louth International Film Festival (LIFF) is set to return for its fifth year on September 27, 28, and 29, 2024.
The festival, in partnership with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) and Louth Filmmakers Society, will take place at An Táin Arts Centre and IMC Cinema Dundalk. This year's festival promises a rich array of curated features, exceptional shorts, and insightful industry panels, offering a truly enriching experience for the local community, filmmakers, and cinephiles alike.
Local filmmakers are invited to submit their films here: https://filmfreeway.com/LouthInternationalFilmFestival
On September 27, all students on the DkIT Film and Television Course will attend the IMC Cinema for a shorts showcase and industry panel. The opening feature will also take place at the IMC.
On September 28 and 29, features and shorts programs will take place at An Táin Arts Centre. This year, a greater emphasis will be placed on features and networking events throughout the town.
New Award: John Moore Award for Best in Louth
Adding to the excitement, LIFF says it is proud to introduce the "Best in Louth" award, presented by the festival’s esteemed patron, John Moore. A native of Dundalk, Moore is celebrated for his directorial work on films such as Behind Enemy Lines, The Omen, Max Payne, and A Good Day to Die Hard.
John Moore shared his enthusiasm: "Everyone is from somewhere, but we like to reach out to everywhere. Louth is a small county with a huge sense of magic, story, and history. This award will acknowledge outstanding filmmaking in the region, and I am delighted to be part of this world-class festival."
The John Moore Award for Best in Louth will recognize outstanding short films either shot in Louth or featuring significant contributions from Louth-based cast or crew.
New Award: The Fred Dekker Award for Best Student Film
LIFF says it is equally excited to announce the introduction of the Fred Dekker Award for Best Student Film, presented by the renowned writer, director, and producer Fred Dekker. Known for his work on The Predator, The Monster Squad, and Night of the Creeps, Dekker is eager to support emerging talent through this new accolade.
Fred Dekker expressed his enthusiasm: "I'm tremendously honored to be part of this festival. I've never been to Ireland and would love to change that! I'm excited to see the emerging talent and look forward to presenting this award."
Fred Dekker is an acclaimed American film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is best known for his cult classics The Monster Squad (1987) and Night of the Creeps (1986), as well as RoboCop 3 (1993). Dekker's work is characterized by a blend of horror, science fiction, and dark humor, which has earned him a dedicated fan base. Additionally, he has contributed to various television projects, including writing for the series Star Trek: Enterprise.
This award will celebrate the best student short film of any genre, encouraging young filmmakers to showcase their creativity and vision.
Welcoming New Junior Programmers
As LIFF continues to grow, the festival says it is thrilled to announce the addition of Shona Kelly and William O'Keeffe as Junior Programmers. Their film Pull Back the Curtain won Best Student Short last year, and both graduated with First Class Honors from the DkIT Film and Television Production course. Their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas are anticipated to bring exciting new dimensions to the festival’s programming.
Awards & Prizes:
- Best Short Fiction
- Best Short Documentary
- Seamus McGarvey Award for Best Cinematography
- Fred Dekker Award for Best Student Film
- Audience Choice
- John Moore Award for Best in Louth
- Best Feature Documentary
- Best Feature Fiction
- Best Actor (gender-neutral)
- Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director
- Best International Short
- Best International Feature