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The Jameson Dublin International Film Festival celebrates Michael Dwyer in 2010

02 Jan, 2010

The Jameson Dublin International Film Festival has announced that the 2010 festival will be dedicated to the memory of co founder, colleague and dear friend Michael Dwyer. Also, as part of the festival programme, there will be a special season of films previously selected and championed by Michael, including the hit of the 2004 film festival Marco Tullio Giordana's The Best of Youth.

Michael Dwyer

Festival Director Grainne Humphreys commented: “I have known Michael for over 25 years and will miss him terribly as both a friend and colleague.  Having watched many films side by side, I loved his infectious enthusiasm from Hollywood blockbusters to niche art-house, from auteurs to amateurs.  His contribution to Ireland’s cultural landscape is immense and in February, we will present a selection of the films Michael discovered and championed to Irish audiences over the years.  We dedicate the 2010 Festival to his memory.

Michael had seen an early draft of the programme and was very excited about many of the films.  Alas, I will not have the pleasure of watching them alongside my good friend.  However, I know that we, as audience members, will watch with the eyes, intellect and heart, of a community shaped by an incredibly passionate individual.”

Festival Chair Arthur Lappin commented: “We are proud to dedicate the 2010 Jameson Dublin International Film Festival to our late friend and colleague, Michael Dwyer.  Michael’s vision as Founder of the Festival has laid strong foundations for the future of the event.  When he retired as Chairman of JDIFF less than a year ago due to his illness, there is no doubting his belief that the Festival would go from strength to strength in the future.  It is the absolute commitment of the Board and Management of the JDIFF that Michael’s legacy will be honoured for many years to come.”

Festival CEO Joanne O’Hagan commented: “Michael’s influence on the film landscape in Ireland has left a lasting impression, not only with us here at the festival, but with all lovers of cinema.  He encapsulated what we aim for every year – to celebrate cinema with fellow film enthusiasts.  This year, the festival will honour the great contribution that Michael gave to us all – and how he helped shape the way that we now experience film in Ireland.”

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