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ATU Champions Student Filmmakers at Rathmullan Film Festival
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) continues its "Inspire Event" at Rathmullan Film Festival.
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) continues its “Inspire Event” at Rathmullan Film Festival, which has evolved into a key platform for emerging filmmakers in the Northwest. Since the film festivals inception in 2018, ATU has been actively involved in running animation and film workshops, curating screenings of student and graduate films, and fostering cross-border collaboration in film and animation.
Now in its third year, the Inspire Event has become a central feature of the festival, showcasing the work of Film and Animation students from both sides of the border. This year’s event, taking place on Saturday, 22nd February, will feature student filmmakers from ATU and Ulster University’s Cinematic Arts programme, giving them the opportunity to present their films, engage in panel discussions, and receive feedback from industry professionals.
Three ATU Film students from third year; Michaela Kleih, Ciara McElroy and Frances Maguire will showcase their latest short films at the Rathmullan Festival. Michaela’s film, ‘Girl or Boy’, explores gender identity through visual experimentation. Ciara’s film titled ‘Alter’ explores change and Frances film ‘Decay’ examines the passage of time.
Additionally, six second-year animation students will showcase their creativity through film. Jodie Rock brings rock paper scissors to life, Hugo Whelan engages in a whimsical game of dodgeball with animals, and Jessica Moore presents a surreal twist on fetch with her dog. Bille Jean Lynch explores the concept of penguins experiencing virtual reality, Jade Gray depicts a man’s desperate escape from Death, and Adam Grier’s ‘Doom’ sees the character breaking free from the game to go on holiday.
A crucial component of the Inspire Event is the industry panel discussion, where students discuss their creative process and receive direct feedback from established professionals. Included in the panel are ATU graduates, Ciaran McCann & Shaun Doogan, who founded their own production company, Re-Act Productions. Joining them is Oscar-winning director Ross White and independent filmmaker, Katie Haley.
In addition to the discussion, students will participate in 30-minute masterclasses led by industry experts, gaining invaluable advice and inspiration for their future careers.
The Inspire Event is coordinated by ATU Film graduate Ruth Keogh and Laura Aguiar from Ulster University, reflecting the ongoing collaboration between institutions to support student filmmakers and animators across the north-west region.
For more details on the festival and Inspire Event, visit Rathmullan Film Festival.
