WITH the launch of new training initiatives and a drive to bring more film and television productions to the region, Limerick is set to become a bigger hub for the screen industries in 2020.
Film in Limerick’s Regional Film Manager, Paul C Ryan, this week set out his vision for the screen industries in the region. He emphasised the development of filmmaking infrastructure, nurturing homegrown talent, and working to make the mid-west an attractive destination for Hollywood and other foreign productions.
This development comes at a time when film and TV have become a significant employer in the region with the success of Troy Studios in Limerick. Troy has generated hundreds of jobs for local residents from carpenters and riggers to camera and costume design crew.
“Historically, Limerick, Clare and Tipperary have not benefited from film and TV production to the same extent as other parts of the country. Now, with Troy Studios, new tax credit increases, and a growing base of talented crew to support visiting productions, we expect more film productions to come to the region and more films being made by local filmmakers,” Mr Ryan explained.
The increased focus on film has already seen a boost in filmmaking and filming enquiries in the region with several productions in the works including a major Apple TV+ production now filming in Troy Studios.
Last autumn, German mini-series ‘An Irish Crime Story’, produced by Good Friends Film produktions, shot on location in Limerick’s Pery Square. Outside of Limerick, BBC Studios and Irish company Treasure Entertainment are to begin filming a six part series called ‘Smother’ this spring, which will be set and shot on location on the rugged coast of County Clare.
Ryan also has ambitious plans to support local creatives to produce their own work and to see the region represented in more film and TV productions through new training and networking events in the region and internationally.
“It’s essential that the local community in Limerick has a place where they can come together on a regular basis to hear from other filmmakers and industry experts and to hatch plans for their own shorts and features and inspiration to develop their careers and companies”.
