Back in the Saddle

Yeah, living the high life for a couple of days was fun and all, but now that that’s all over and done with, it’s time to get back in the saddle and what better way to do that than by working out at the Hub.

Now when I look back on the Belfast Media Festival, I’d say it’s been a truly invigorating experience for me. Aside from the thrill that comes with meeting, talking to and getting photos with some of Northern Ireland’s finest thespians, filmmakers, writers and artists, it’s incredibly inspiring to see such creative talent and unique artistry coming out of the woodwork and finally getting the opportunity to shine. The film industry has been in a bit of a tailspin, especially in the post-COVID era, but seeing the local industry going from strength to strength fills me with enough hope and optimism to counteract some of my own personal frustrations with the industry at large. Obviously, the local film industry is NOT perfect by any stretch and I do have my own issues with it, as well as some concerns about the future, but that’s a story for another day. For now, I feel like celebrating. I’ve had a tremendous week and I think I’m finally finding some of that spark that I’ve been missing for some time. Or maybe… just maybe… like Austin Powers and his mojo, I had it all along. Who knows?

I also have to mention that filmmakers Oisin Kearney and Michael Patrick were at the last day of the event where I saw their short film, So You’re Doing To Die. It’s a proof-of-concept for a potential series that I, for one, would really love to see come to fruition, especially if it has the same cast, music and unique mix of humour and pathos that the proof-of-concept has.

I suppose this is where I’m gonna wrap things up and close out a good week with a couple of pints. I can hear the winds blowing outside so I’d better bring an extra set of layers with me.

Take care.