The National Talent Academy (NTA) for Film & Television has announced the six live-action teams selected for the 2024 First Credit Short Film Scheme and Short Film Fund. The selected shorts will enter a script development stage, with filming scheduled for later in 2024.
The First Credit Short Film Scheme and Short Film Fund initiatives aim to support new, emerging and established professionals in the film industry, providing them with the opportunity to develop their skills and achieve their first professional credits.
The First Credit Short Film Scheme is designed to help new entrants to the industry gain experience as writers, directors, or producers. Meanwhile, the NTA Short Film Fund focuses on those already working within the industry, helping them expand their skill sets and transition into new writing and directing roles.
Following the application deadline earlier in 2024, submissions were assessed by a panel of external assessors. Shortlisted applicants were then invited to pitch their projects to selection panels of industry professionals, resulting in the selection of six outstanding projects.
First Credit Short Film Scheme Recipients:
Dear Phil
In Crumlin, Dublin, a teenage girl caring for her terminally ill father hopes to contact the spirit of their favourite rock star, Phil Lynott, to assure her Dad that there’s an afterlife.
Writer/Director: Sophie Meehan
Producer: Aoife Derwin
I Belong
Laliya navigates her cultural identity and belonging, reconciling Somali heritage with suburban life in Ireland while facing isolation and misunderstanding.
Writer/Director: Fatoumata Gandega
Producer: Asali Wako
Over The Moon
While celebrating the last step of his transition, Jay, a straight-talking trans man, grieves an unexpected loss, uncovering a deceitful scheme by his estranged parents and beginning his journey to see the stars.
Writer/Director: Rory Fitzpatrick
Writer: Kai Donohoe
Producer: Billy Buckley
NTA Short Film Fund Recipients:
Romance is Dad
A couple’s first weekend away alone since the birth of their kids but will they be able to relax and reignite that romantic spark that has been doused for the last two years?
Writer/Director: Dave Moran
Producer: Gemma O’Shaughnessy
Stray
A teenage girl with nowhere to go reluctantly embarks on a road trip with her social care worker when her foster placement breaks down.
Writer/Director: Kim Bartley
Producer: Ciara Appelbe
Would You Rather
After recovering from a breakdown, a young woman turns up to a party uninvited, where a game of Would You Rather takes an unexpected turn.
Writer/Director: Sophie O’Donovan
Producer: Aoibhín Murphy
As part of the scheme, participants will engage in a skills development program, including training, workshops, and mentoring. The selected shorts will now enter a script development stage, with filming scheduled for later in 2024.
