Three short films have been named as part of the Green Lit initiative – a collaboration between BBC Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland Screen supporting emerging writing, production, directing and acting talent from Northern Ireland.
The three new standalone 15 minute scripted projects are:
- Rewarding from Conker Pictures written by Matthew McDevitt featuring Seána Kerslake and Vittorio Angelone
- Helpless from Fabel Productions written by Michael Patrick and Oisín Kearney starring Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Éanna Hardwicke and George Robinson
- Mourning Glory (working title) produced by Fíbín Films written by Shane McNaughton featuring Nigel O’Neill and Amy Huberman.
The scheme was launched in December 2024 when the invitation for proposals was opened to independent production companies. Six projects were chosen for an initial phase of funded development, with three projects then selected to proceed to full production of a short film.
Eddie Doyle, Head of Commissioning at BBC Northern Ireland, says: “We’re very proud to announce the three successful projects which are now in production as part of the Green Lit initiative – each one featuring an impressive cast of established and up and coming acting talent.
“The calibre of scripted ideas and scripts submitted through the scheme was truly impressive – a real showcase of the creativity and skill we have right here in Northern Ireland. We eagerly anticipate the next phase, where one of these short-form projects may evolve into a full-length film or television series all made possible with the support from Northern Ireland Screen.”
Richard Williams, Chief Executive Officer at Northern Ireland Screen, says: “Nurturing emerging talent is at the heart of everything we do at Northern Ireland Screen, and it’s exciting to see the Green Lit projects now moving into production. These exceptional writers, directors, producers, and actors will have the opportunity to realise their creative visions, supported by the expertise of BBC Northern Ireland.
“Building on the success of our previous Hot House collaboration, this initiative offers an innovative platform for fresh voices to be discovered and we look forward to the next stage, when one of these productions will make it to broadcast, with the potential to develop into a full-length film or television series.”