Ed Guiney of Element Pictures advocates for a comprehensive approach to the film and television industries, emphasizing the importance of more Irish stories. As the producer of Poor Things, he urges for an all-Ireland strategy to foster creative storytelling.
Ed Guiney of Element Pictures calls for an all-Ireland strategy for the film and television industries.
According to Ed Guiney from Element Pictures, Northern Ireland and the Republic have abundant contributions to offer in the realm of TV and cinema. Speaking to BBC News NI’s Good Morning Ulster, he acknowledged that while it may sound like a cliché, “we are a nation of storytellers” resonates deeply.
His remarks came in the wake of Poor Things clinching four Oscars last Sunday. Mr. Guiney emphasized the remarkable success that films originating from both Northern Ireland and the Republic have achieved in recent years.
His Dublin-based production company has been involved in films such as Omagh, The Wind That Shakes The Barley, Room, The Favourite, and The Guard, in addition to the darkly comic Poor Things.
“I believe it’s crucial to build upon our recent successes, especially with Irish Goodbye and other Irish nominees from last year,” he expressed. “Expanding our capabilities in screenwriting and cultivating indigenous stories for film and television is paramount.”
He emphasized the significance of local production, stating, “It’s essential for both sides of the border not to overly depend on external projects. Instead, we should focus on creating content locally. This is why initiatives like Northern Ireland’s Irish Goodbye and Blue Lights are incredibly important.”
Mr. Guiney characterized Sunday’s Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles as “a positive evening,” though he noted that it was “quite lengthy.”
“We’re thrilled – it wasn’t certain at all that we would receive any awards. We were optimistic. Securing four Oscars and Best Actress makes for a successful evening,” he remarked regarding the achievements of Poor Things, featuring Emma Stone and helmed by Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos.
“It’s indeed a lengthy affair. The day begins around midday with pickups, followed by the ceremony starting at 4:00 PM, spanning until 7:00 PM, and then there are the subsequent parties!”
He expressed his excitement over the Irish triumph at the Academy Awards, particularly highlighting Cillian Murphy’s win for Best Actor in “Oppenheimer,” a prideful moment given Murphy’s roots in Cork.
Reflecting on Murphy’s demeanor, Mr. Guiney noted, “He seemed genuinely moved by the support from Ireland. He’s quite unassuming, and I believe he cherished being there with his family.”
Addressing Murphy’s comparison of the Irish film industry’s current momentum to “Italia 90,” a nod to Ireland’s spirited performance in the World Cup, Mr. Guiney acknowledged, “He did mention feeling a similar surge of support, akin to that memorable time. It was as if we were collectively buoyed by the overwhelming interest and well wishes from home.”
He emphasized that productions like Blue Lights, the BBC police drama set in Northern Ireland and penned by Belfast writers Declan Lawn and Adam Patterson, should set the standard for film and television creators in the region more frequently.
“Blue Lights stands out as a prime example, crafted and brought to life by two talented Northern Irish writers—it’s been a tremendous success, truly remarkable,” he emphasized.
“That should be our focal point, ultimately. It may sound cliché, but our strength lies in storytelling, which is our inherent asset, and we should fully embrace it.”
The producer emphasized the rich cultural heritage and compelling narratives that Ireland has to offer, urging for more diversity and representation in storytelling. It’s a reminder that there are countless untold stories waiting to be shared, and it’s up to all of us to amplify diverse voices and experiences. Let’s join the movement and celebrate the rich tapestry of Irish stories in film, literature, and beyond!
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