There has been plenty to talk about in the world of movies lately in regards to the connections they hold to Ireland. From the scenic islands featured in Star Wars: A Force Awakens to the must see film Brooklyn that documents life for Irish immigrants in New York City. With the announcement of the Oscar nominations, Ireland is once again in the spotlight. And with numerous nominations in many different categories, it is quite possible that someone from Ireland may walk away with that coveted golden statue.
With all the great feedback about the film Brooklyn, we are thrilled that Saoirse Ronan nabbed the coveted nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Mirroring her honor is Michael Fassbender, who is up for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Steve Jobs in the movie of the same name.
In the other categories, Irish director Lenny Abrahamson was nominated for Best Director for Room, which, along with Brooklyn, is up for both Best Picture and Best Adaptated Screenplay (with Irish author Emma Donoghue as part of that nomination for Room). Benjamin Cleary’s Stutterer was also nominated for Best Live Action Short Film.
All in all there are a total of 9 nominations, the most the Irish film industry has ever received in one year.
Since there are so many great Irish films in the running, you may hear people pretend to speak with an Irish accent at your Oscar viewing party. If that’s the case, then Best Actress Nominee Saoirse Ronan has some tips for you.
Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, she gave the host a lesson in how to speak like an Irishman, including tips for not sounding like the stereotypical leprechaun or angry Irishman. Take a look at the video below, and see if you can pronounce the names along with her.
Have you seen any of the movies up for an Academy Award? Who do you think should bring home the Oscar?