James-Flynn

Source: Metropolitan Films

James Flynn

Irish producer James Flynn of Metropolitan Films, whose credits include the Bafta and Oscar-nominated The Banshees Of Inisherin, has died aged 57 following an illness.

Flynn founded production company Metropolitan Films in 1997 with his wife Juanita Wilson, and had credits through the company on titles including Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel and hit romantic comedies P.S. I Love You and Love Rosie.

His death was first reported in The Irish Times.

Flynn was a co-producer on Martin McDonagh’s drama The Banshees Of Inisherin for Searchlight Pictures. It has been nominated for nine Oscars and 10 Bafta film awards.

Flynn was a board member of the Screen Commission of Ireland from 1997 to 2000, and of Screen Training Ireland from 1995 to 2000.

He was Oscar-nominated in 2010 as a producer on Wilson’s short The Door; and had also executive produced Cartoon Saloon’s The Secret Of Kells, which received a best animated feature nomination that year.

Metropolitan Films has worked on more than 80 film and television productions, including Ondine and Greta with long-time collaborator Neil Jordan; and John Michael McDonagh’s Calvary, which Flynn produced. The company has also worked extensively in television, on series including The Tudors, The Borgias and Vikings.

A statement from Metropolitan Films said, “All of us in Metropolitan Films are deeply saddened by the passing of our esteemed founder, colleague and great friend James Flynn, who departed peacefully on Saturday morning with his wife Juanita Wilson and children Alex and Anna by his side.

“No words can adequately describe the immense contribution James has made to the Irish film and television industry over three decades on both a national and international level. He willingly and generously gave his advice and guidance to all who sought his counsel, from young emerging filmmakers to established Irish and international industry practitioners.

“James fought his recent illness with courage, dignity, and positivity to the very end. For that reason we are acutely aware that the news of his passing has been an unexpected shock for all of us.”