Niall McCloskey reports from Shiny / Powerhouse Showcase in Dublin, a vibrant evening spotlighting some of the most exciting new voices in Irish filmmaking.
(Photos by Jasmine Isabella Hughes)
The first Dublin showcase from Shiny & Powerhouse took place last week; the cosy event was hosted at Bond Street Studios in Dublin 7, a strong and collaborative space for artists that welcomed attendees with open arms. The variety of the talent on display was nothing short of highly encouraging for the state of the Irish screen industry going forward. These young directors, each with a distinct vision, undertook creative decisions within their respective teams to build this collection of beautifully crafted stories.
The showcase itself was a mix of music videos and adverts of all kinds; from the metaphorical ad “what if buying a coffee was like buying a house” to a truly hilarious MiWadi ad that had those in attendance laughing throughout. Highlighting storytellers from all backgrounds, the organisers ensure that 70% of work shown at Shiny events is by directors who are demographically under-represented in commercials.
I had the pleasure to speak with some of the directors throughout the night. Fellow Belfast-based filmmaker and BFI Future Film Fest-selected director Conor Toner and creative partner Luke Conroy brought dazzle and joy to the latest music video from Ahmed, With Love. Yes, of Course. A deliciously saturated and creative music video that could be described as awe-inspiring, not only for how they managed to pull it off on such a low budge but for the variety of beautiful camera techniques, set design choices and direction found throughout. This music video has since gone on to play at Cyprus International Music Video Festival this year.
EDA-shortlisted and Shark Award-winning director Donnagh Fitzpatrick was in attendance showcasing his music video for Amble, Tonnta. Mixed media pieces are fascinating, and this is, in my opinion, one of the greatest strengths of this visually rich video. Fans of Aftersun rejoice, as Donnagh wears his influence proudly: a father and daughter journey, shaggy-dog tale and heartfelt journey all wrapped up in a well-structured narrative. Between the stunning hi-res cinematography and the equally bold choice to use a digital camcorder to tell the story’s two respective sides, Donnagh has marked himself as one to watch.
Winners were selected by PowerHouse’s MD Kymann Power, Bloom agency Art Director Wilke-Mari Hamman, Bolt! Studios’ (Dentsu) Head & Creative Lead Matthieu Chardon and Shiny’s Project Manager Ronita Awoonor-Gordon, and they shared valuable feedback for each piece in the showcase of 13 films.
Congratulations to the event winners:
- Eoghan Hand – Mi Wadi Madness
- Donnagh Fitzpatrick – Tonnta – Amble
- Colin Peppard & Benedict Goddard – Chalk – Afraid
- Honourable Mention: John Reavey – Manchester City FC – Dickov’s Dream
- Honourable Mention: Adam Rael – Whack – If buying a coffee was like buying a house
Many might say that the utmost job of the press is to tell the truth, and I have the privilege to write that the truth of this showcase was nothing short of inspiring. There wasn’t a single project on display that wasn’t of the highest quality. Unique, diverse and distinctly Irish voices were showcased, all operating at full creative force. To every director and team that showcased, I am waiting with bated breath to see what you do next.
The Shiny Showcase took place on 12th June 2025.
