A TEENAGE film-maker from Strabane has been named One to Watch at the prestigious Into Film Awards.
Oisín-Tomás Ó Raghallaigh (18) received the award at the Into Film Awards ceremony in London on Monday night and will now receive specialist mentoring and support from the film education charity to help develop his skills.
"To be picked for a national award like this is such an honour," says Oisín-Tomás. "I think it's great how Into Film recognises and nurtures young talent. Film and television careers are notoriously difficult to get into, particularly if you are young, don't have a lot of money or come from an underrepresented community – this award is an equaliser that helps develop new talent."
The Strabane man's most recent short film, Hindsight, has already won multiple awards. Created during the National Film and Television School's BFI Film Academy Craft Residential last year, it centres on convict and drug addict Tony as he attempts to form a new relationship with his daughter and former partner.
"I love writing and producing but my real passion is directing," says Oisín-Tomás, who decided to take a year out after finishing his A-Levels at Holy Cross College to gain more experience in the film industry.
"I’m interested in creating movies with a social message, that address serious issues and give a new voice to people’s stories and experiences."
The film-maker is currently working on Grounding, a new short which deals with mental health issues.
:: Intofilm.org
