Two young filmmakers from GMIT
Jessie Fisk and Sean Clancy have been chosen for the prestigious Berlin International Film Festival.
The two, who are graduates of GMIT’s film and documentary course, will take part in the Berlinale Talents programme at the Berlin Film Festival which features emerging talents from around the world.
Jessie Fisk’s first big film as lead producer, ‘Song of Granite’ (2017), premiered at the prestigious festival South By Southwest in Austin, Texas and was released in cinemas in the US after.
It was Ireland’s submission for the foreign language category of the 2018 academy awards and nominated for three Irish Film and Television Awards.
Now Jessie has partnered with Italian writer and director Nathalie Biancheri to create their own production company Feline Films.
Their next production will be a film called Shadows co-produced with Italian company Ascent Films which is due to shoot in May.
“Participating in Berlinale Talents is a huge honour as the programme is highly sought after,” Jessie said.
“Working in this industry, let alone starting a company, can be really tough so developing a network of support amongst international peers makes the whole process a little easier.”
Sean Clancy has directed both commercials and music videos extensively and is best known for his short film ‘Cavalier’ which he wrote and directed.
His debut feature film ‘Locus of Control’ will be released later this year.
“I’m going to try and attend as many of the talks and screenings as I can as it’s a great chance to meet filmmakers from all backgrounds and disciplines,” Sean said.
Jessie and Sean are representing Ireland at the film festival along with
Sile Culley of Altitude Films.
The Irish candidates will join 248 others across Europe to partake in a weeklong talent development programme.
Candidates for Bertinale Talents are selected from 3,400 applicants on the basis of their prior achievements, resonance and relevance of their work as well as their demonstrated and exceptional promise.
The Berlinale Talents programme will comprise of masterclasses and panels with top tier figures within the international film industry.
In addition, there will be workshops, networking sessions and case studies of successful films.
Programme Director at GMIT Celine Curtin said she’s not surprised by the incredible success Jessie and Sean have found.
“During the course of the three years, certain students distinguish themselves with their dedication to their craft and ambition,” she said.
“Great things lie ahead for them.”
