Mullingar natives film nominated for nine iftas

A film written and directed by a Mullingar native has been nominated for nine IFTAs.

Patrick’s Day, the second feature by Terry McMahon, leads the way for IFTA nominations this year along with the Lenny Abrahamson’s comedy Frank.

In addition to being nominated in the much coveted Best Film, Best Director and Best Script categories, Patrick’s Day’s male lead, Moe Dunford, is also up for an award as is Catherine Walker (Actress in a Supporting Role), who played his love interest Karen .

The film’s director of photography Michael Lavelle, editor Emer Phillips and score composer Ray Harmon have also been nominated. It is also up for an award in the Best Sound category.

The film, a dark drama about a romance between a schizophrenic and suicidal flight attendant, has been lauded by critics at home and abroad and has received a number of awards at festivals.

Posting on his Facebook page, writer/director McMahon said that everyone attached to the film is “honoured to be listed among people who defy that cynicism every day and fight to make something”.