Following success in the early awards-show season, hopes were high that Irish talents would continue to be recognised across the globe, and today's Golden Globe nominations were another indicator of what a massive year its been for the industry in Ireland.
The awards - widely regarded as an indicator of what to expect when the Academy Awards roll around - have announced a number of Irish talents among the nominees, with Saoirse Ronan (above) leading the way. The actress was heralded far and wide for her performance in Brooklyn, and the role which saw her pick up a British Independent Film Award just the other day has now scored her a nomination for Best Actress at the Golden Globes.
She won't be short of travel companions when making the trip across the Atlantic either, as Room also caught the eye in a major way. The Lenny Abrahamson film has picked up a nod for Best Motion Picture, while its screenwriter Emma O'Donoghue, who adapted the story from her own award-winning book, was nominated for Best Screenplay. Brie Larson, the film's American star, will square off against Ronan in the Best Actress category.
The good news will be seen as a harbinger of things to come, as the Irish flag will likely be flown high at the Oscars, the nominations for which will be announced next month.
“Irish film is enjoying a real ‘coming of age’ this year," said James Hickey, CEO of the Irish Film Board, "with our writers, directors and actors all receiving unprecedented global acclaim – both with awards and from audiences. Today the industry is celebrating the Golden Globe nominations and coming next month are the Academy Award® nominations, with Irish talent tipped to take centre stage."
Ronan, in particular, will be well fancied to gain a nod there, with some bookmakers already listing her amongst the favourites to bag a famous golden statue.