Bristol Encounters to spotlight Irish animation talent

There will be a spotlight on Irish animation at this year’s upcoming Bristol Encounters International Film Festival which runs November 16-20.

The short film festival has teamed up with the Irish Film Board to host a celebration of new and established Irish animated film talent, including works from two new animation companies Giant Creative and Lovely Productions.

James Hickey, chief executive at the Irish Film Board said the focus would “provide a real insight into the diversity of the work being produced in Ireland right now.”

The festival will see a number of Irish animated films in competition including Paperman by Richard Kelly, Nana’s Strawberry Preserve by Aoife Doyle, a recent graduate from Bellyfermot College of Further Education, and The Fisherman, a graduation film by Ferg Brennan, also feature in competition this year.

There will also be a festival focus on the company behind The Secret of Kells, Cartoon Saloon, with creative director and co-founder Tomm Moore. The studio is currently developing and producing a number feature film and TV projects including children’s series Skunk Fu!