The Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) has announced its 2025 nominees, showcasing the best of Irish cinema and television across 29 categories.The winners will be revealed at the 22nd annual IFTA Awards Ceremony, set to take place on February 14 at the Dublin Royal Convention Center.
In the film categories, Kneecap dominates with 17 nominations, including nods for Best Film, Acting, and Directing. Other standout films include Small Things Like These with nine nominations, Kathleen Is Here with seven, and Spilt Milk and The Apprentice, both with four nominations each.
Watch: Kneecap leads this year’s IFTA Awards nominations
In television drama, Say Nothing takes the lead with 10 nominations, followed by Bad Sisters with eight and The Dry and Bodkin with seven each. This year’s ceremony also introduces a new award category for Casting, recognizing the vital role of ireland’s casting directors. Notable nominees in this category include Lucy Amos and nina Gold for Say Nothing, Emma Gunnery for Baltimore, and Maureen Hughes for Small Things Like These.
Watch: Say Nothing secures 10 IFTA Award nominations
IFTA CEO Áine Moriarty described the 2025 nominees as “an incredible showcase of skill and talent,” emphasizing the continued excellence of Irish acting, filmmaking, and storytelling.
The event will bring together Irish and international stars to celebrate the achievements of Ireland’s screen industry. Further details, including the ceremony host, guest presenters, and Rising Star nominees, will be announced in the coming weeks.
IFTA Awards 2025
Film Categories
best Film
Kathleen Is Here
King Frankie
kneecap
Small Things Like These
Spilt Milk
The Apprentice
Director – Film
Eva Birthistle – Kathleen Is Here
John Crowley
Celebrating Excellence in Film and Drama: A Look at the Year’s Best
Table of Contents
- 1. Celebrating Excellence in Film and Drama: A Look at the Year’s Best
- 2. Film Highlights: A Showcase of Talent
- 3. Drama Categories: Stories That Resonate
- 4. Memorable Quotes and Moments
- 5. Why This Matters
- 6. Celebrating Excellence: A Deep Dive into This Year’s Film Awards
- 7. International Film Awards: A Showcase of Global talent
- 8. Other Categories: Crafting Stories Beyond the Screen
- 9. craft Excellence: Behind the Scenes Heroes
- 10. Conclusion: A Year of Unparalleled Artistry
- 11. Behind the Scenes: The creative Minds Behind Popular Productions
- 12. Costume Design: dressing the Characters
- 13. Production Design: building Worlds
- 14. hair & Makeup: enhancing the characters
- 15. Sound: Crafting the Atmosphere
- 16. Original Music: Setting the Tone
- 17. Editing: Shaping the Narrative
- 18. VFX: Creating the Impractical
- 19. In what ways did Tom Conroy’s production design for “House of the Dragon” differentiate it from “Vikings Valhalla”, given that both shows are set in different historical periods?
- 20. Original Music: Setting the Tone
- 21. Hair and Makeup: Transforming Characters
- 22. Sound Design: Crafting the auditory Experience
- 23. Conclusion: The Unsung Heroes of Storytelling
Film Highlights: A Showcase of Talent
This year’s film landscape has been a vibrant tapestry of storytelling, with standout performances and compelling scripts. From gripping dramas to bold comedies, the industry has delivered works that captivate and inspire.
In the realm of Lead actor – Film, names like Paul Mescal from Gladiator II and Cillian Murphy in Small Things Like These have left indelible marks. Meanwhile, Naoise Ó Caireallain, J.J. Ó Dochartaigh, and Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh brought electrifying energy to Kneecap.
On the Lead Actress – Film front, Saoirse Ronan dazzled in The Outrun, while Carolyn Bracken delivered a haunting performance in Oddity. Jessie Buckley also shone in Wicked Little Letters, proving her versatility once again.
Supporting roles were no less impressive, with Michael Fassbender and Barry Keoghan delivering memorable turns in Kneecap and Bird, respectively. Saoirse Ronan also graced the Supporting Actress – Film category with her role in Blitz.
Drama Categories: Stories That Resonate
The drama sector has been equally compelling, with series like Bad Sisters, Blue Lights, and The Dry dominating the Best Drama category. Each show brought unique narratives and unforgettable characters to the screen.
Directors such as Paddy Breathnach for The Dry and Dearbhla Walsh for Bad Sisters showcased their skill in crafting immersive worlds. Simultaneously occurring, scripts by sharon Horgan and Adam Patterson kept audiences glued to their screens.
In the Lead Actor – Drama category, Anthony Boyle from Say Nothing and Colin Farrell in The Penguin delivered powerhouse performances. Their work added depth and intensity to their respective roles, leaving a lasting impression.
Memorable Quotes and Moments
“We live in time, and every moment counts.” – We Live in Time
“The past is never where you think you left it.” – Baltimore
these quotes, among others, encapsulate the emotional depth and thought-provoking themes that defined this year’s cinematic and dramatic offerings.
Why This Matters
Film and drama are more than entertainment; they are mirrors to our society, reflecting its triumphs, struggles, and complexities. This year’s works remind us of the power of storytelling to connect,challenge,and inspire. Whether through the lens of a camera or the pages of a script, these creators have left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.
Celebrating Excellence: A Deep Dive into This Year’s Film Awards
The world of cinema has once again proven its ability to captivate, inspire, and challenge audiences with its latest offerings. From gripping dramas to groundbreaking documentaries, this year’s film awards have highlighted the remarkable talent and creativity that continues to shape the industry. Let’s explore the standout nominees and winners across various categories, celebrating the artistry that defines modern storytelling.
International Film Awards: A Showcase of Global talent
the Best International Film category has brought forth a diverse array of cinematic masterpieces. Among the nominees, Anora, Conclave, and Dune Part Two have garnered critical acclaim for their innovative storytelling and visual prowess. Simultaneously occurring, The Brutalist, The Outrun, and The Substance have pushed boundaries, offering audiences a blend of raw emotion and technical brilliance.
In the Best International Actor race, Adrien Brody’s performance in The Brutalist has been hailed as a tour de force, while Timothée Chalamet’s enigmatic role in A Complete Unknown continues to captivate critics. Kieran Culkin’s portrayal in A Real Pain, Ralph Fiennes’ commanding presence in conclave, and Sebastian Stan’s nuanced work in The Apprentice have all left indelible marks on this year’s cinematic landscape. Denzel Washington’s return in Gladiator II has also been a standout, cementing his status as a Hollywood legend.
The Best International actress category shines with Cynthia Erivo’s compelling performance in Wicked, Angelina Jolie’s haunting role in Maria, and Mikey Madison’s breakout work in Anora. Demi Moore’s transformative acting in The Substance, Florence Pugh’s emotional depth in We Live in Time, and Emily Watson’s subtle brilliance in Small Things Like These have all contributed to a year of unforgettable performances.
Other Categories: Crafting Stories Beyond the Screen
The George Morrison Feature Documentary category has spotlighted films that delve into real-life narratives with unmatched authenticity. Face Down: The Disappearance of Thomas Niedermayer, Don’t Forget to Remember, and Blue Road: The Edna O’Brien story have each explored human stories with profound insight. Meanwhile, The Flats, Mrs Robinson, and Brendan Gleeson’s Farewell to Hughes’s have offered a blend of history and personal reflection, making these documentaries essential viewing.
Short films have also made their mark, with the Live - Action Short Film category featuring works like Clodagh, Farmers!?, and Room Taken, each offering a unique perspective in a compact format. The Animated Short Film nominees, including Dembaya, Every Other Weekend, and Homebird, have pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling, proving that animation remains a powerful medium for creativity.
craft Excellence: Behind the Scenes Heroes
The Casting category has recognized the unsung heroes who bring characters to life. Emma Gunnery’s work on baltimore, Louise Kiely’s meticulous casting for Bodkin, and Maureen Hughes’s role in Small Things Like These have all contributed to the seamless integration of actors into their roles.Meanwhile, Cinematography has celebrated the visual artistry of films like Bird, Fréwaka, and Kneecap, with Robbie Ryan, Narayan Van Maele, and Ryan Kern elevating the cinematic experience through their masterful lens work.
Conclusion: A Year of Unparalleled Artistry
This year’s film awards have not only celebrated the talent on screen but also the countless efforts behind it. From leading actors to the craft teams that shape every frame, these awards remind us that cinema is a collaborative art—one that continues to evolve, inspire, and challenge. As we look forward to the next year of storytelling, these nominees and winners serve as a testament to the enduring power of film.
Behind the Scenes: The creative Minds Behind Popular Productions
When it comes to crafting the immersive worlds of films and television shows, the talent behind the scenes is just as crucial as the stars on the screen. From costume design to original music, every detail is meticulously handled by a team of experts who bring stories to life. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout creators who have shaped the visual and auditory landscapes of recent productions.
Costume Design: dressing the Characters
Costume designers are the unsung heroes who ensure characters look just as authentic as they feel. For Abigail, Gwen Jeffares Hourie brought a unique flair to the wardrobe, while Caroline McCall’s work on House of the Dragon transported viewers to a medieval fantasy. Zjena glamocanin’s designs in Kneecap were equally striking, and Susan O’Connor-Cave’s viking-inspired costumes in Vikings Valhalla added a layer of historical authenticity to the series.
Production Design: building Worlds
The production design team is responsible for creating the physical environments that stories unfold in. Susie Cullen’s work on Abigail set a tone of elegance, while Paki Smith’s designs for Bodkin brought a gritty realism. Nicola Moroney’s contributions to Kneecap were equally impactful, and Tom Conroy’s Viking landscapes in Vikings Valhalla were nothing short of epic.
hair & Makeup: enhancing the characters
The hair and makeup teams add the final touches that bring characters to life. Linda Gannon and Liz Byrne’s work on Abigail was notable for its subtle yet transformative impact. Simultaneously occurring, Liz Boston’s approach to Kneecap added depth to the characters. In The Apprentice, Sandra Kelly and Tom McInerney’s collaboration ensured every detail was perfect, and Joe Whelan’s Viking-era styling in Vikings Valhalla was both rugged and refined.
Sound: Crafting the Atmosphere
The sound design team plays a pivotal role in immersing audiences. Hugh Fox’s work on Abigail created a rich auditory backdrop, while John ‘Bob’ Brennan, Mark Henry, and fionan Higgins’ collaboration on blackshore was equally compelling. Aza Hand’s contributions to both Kneecap and Oddity showcased versatility, and Hugh Fox’s partnership with Senjan Jansen in Small Things Like These added a layer of emotional depth.
Original Music: Setting the Tone
Original music is often the heartbeat of a production. Die Hexen’s score for Fréwaka was hauntingly lovely, while David Holmes’ compositions for The Apprentice were both dynamic and evocative. Sarah Lynch’s work on The Dry added a melancholic undertone, and Eimear Noone and Craig Stuart garfinkle’s playful score for The Magic Reindeer: Saving Santa’s Sleigh brought holiday cheer. Ray Harman’s The Song Cycle was a melodic journey that tied the narrative together.
Editing: Shaping the Narrative
Editing is where the story truly comes together. Derek Holland’s work on Bad Sisters was seamless, while Colin Campbell’s editing of Kathleen Is Here ensured every moment was impactful. Julian Ulrichs and Chris Gill’s collaboration on Kneecap brought a sharp focus to the narrative, and Edel McDonnell’s editing of Say Nothing was both precise and emotionally resonant.
VFX: Creating the Impractical
Visual effects bring the impossible to life. Ed Bruce and Liam Neville’s work on 3 Body Problem was groundbreaking, while John Kennedy and Lisa Maher’s effects on Bodkin added layers of mystique. Dan Cullen’s contributions to Sanctuary were equally impressive, and Ed Bruce’s partnership with Andrew Barry in Shögun created a visual spectacle that captivated audiences.
Each of these creators has played a vital role in bringing these productions to life. Their work is a testament to the power of collaboration and creativity in storytelling.
In what ways did Tom Conroy’s production design for “House of the Dragon” differentiate it from “Vikings Valhalla”, given that both shows are set in different historical periods?
And Tom Conroy’s contributions to House of the Dragon and Vikings Valhalla respectively, showcased their ability to craft immersive, believable worlds that transport audiences to different eras and realms.
Original Music: Setting the Tone
Music is a powerful tool in storytelling, and this year’s productions have been elevated by extraordinary original scores. For Abigail, composer Niall Byrne created a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that perfectly complemented the film’s atmosphere. In house of the Dragon, Ramin Djawadi’s score continued to build on the legacy of the Game of Thrones universe, while in Kneecap, the music by Daragh O’Toole added a raw, energetic edge to the narrative. Vikings Valhalla was brought to life by Trevor Morris’s epic and evocative compositions, which underscored the drama and intensity of the series.
Hair and Makeup: Transforming Characters
The hair and makeup teams play a pivotal role in transforming actors into their characters. For Abigail, the team led by morna Ferguson and Lorraine Glynn created looks that where both striking and subtle, enhancing the film’s visual storytelling. In House of the Dragon, Amanda Knight and her team continued the tradition of intricate and detailed designs that have become a hallmark of the franchise. Kneecap benefited from the bold and creative work of Niamh O’Loan, while Vikings Valhalla saw Tom McInerney and his team deliver historically inspired looks that added depth to the characters.
Sound Design: Crafting the auditory Experience
Sound design is an often-overlooked aspect of filmmaking,but it is crucial in creating an immersive experience. for Abigail,sound designer Steve Fanagan worked meticulously to create a soundscape that heightened the tension and emotion of the film. In House of the Dragon, the team led by Tim Hands and Paula Fairfield continued to deliver the rich, layered soundscapes that fans have come to expect. Kneecap featured innovative sound design by Brendan Rehill, which added to the film’s gritty realism, while vikings Valhalla was brought to life by the work of John Mooney and his team, who created an auditory experience that was as epic as the visuals.
Conclusion: The Unsung Heroes of Storytelling
While the actors on screen frequently enough receive the lion’s share of the attention, it’s critically important to recognize the incredible talent and hard work of the creative teams behind the scenes. From costume designers to composers, production designers to sound engineers, these individuals play a crucial role in bringing stories to life. Their contributions ensure that every detail, from the costumes to the music, the sets to the sound, works together to create a cohesive and immersive experience for the audience. As we celebrate the best of this year’s films and television shows, let’s not forget to honor the creative minds who make it all possible.
