Lakelands star gets EFP nod as Longford film for IFI screening

The star of Lakelands, Éanna Hardwicke, has added to the glittering array of awards attached to the film.

The Longford film has received numerous international prizes and Hardwicke has been picked at one of 10 European Shooting Stars.

In the citation the jury said: “For his role as a Gaelic footballer in the nominated film Lakelands directed by Robert Higgins and Patrick McGivney, the jury recognises Éanna's 'star quality' and lauds his performance, which is 'nothing short of gripping, skilfully revealing layers of sensitivity beneath a seemingly tough exterior'”.

Five experts including Irish actor Moe Dunford picked the 10 European Shooting Stars 2024. The 27th edition of European Shooting Stars will be held 16 – 19 February 2024 at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Hardwicke has also starred in the TV series Smother and Normal People as well as the film Vivarium. Shooting Stars was established by the European Film Promotion (EFP) agency to promote acting talent across the continent.

The Cork actor is one of 10 actors to attend the Berlin International Film Festival in February. EFP selected seven actresses and three actors; Suzy Bemba (France), Valentina Bellè (Italy), Kamila Urzędowska (Poland), Asta Kamma August (Sweden), Thibaud Dooms (Belgium), Džiugas Grinys (Lithuania), Margarita Stoykova (Bulgaria) Salome Demuria (Georgia) and Katharina Stark (Germany).

Lakelands will enjoy a screening in the Irish Film Institute later this month. Harp Media said on their Facebook page: “For anyone who missed ‘Lakelands’ in the cinema on the initial release in the summer, we’re delighted to be back in the Irish Film Institute for 4 screenings over the festive period as part of their Best of Irish programme.

“It will screen on: Thursday 28th at 13:00, Sunday 31st at 14:00, Monday 1st at 13:40 and Wednesday 3rd at 20:50. Massive thanks to everyone who checked out the film this year!”