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'Waking Ned' to make a welcome return to the big screen 10 March 2009  On Friday 20 March Manx National Heritage will welcome Hilary Dugdale to the Manx Museum to present an illustrated talk about the work and development of Isle of Man Film. This will be followed by a special screening of Waking Ned (Certificate PG), the popular feature film set in rural Ireland yet shot on location on the Isle of Man in 1997. The evening event is open to all and forms the programme for MNH’s annual film night in the Manx Museum lecture theatre.
Hilary Dugdale is Development Manager for Isle of Man Film, a Department of Trade and Industry initiative, formerly known as the Isle of Man Film Commission which was set up in 1995 as part of the Isle of Man Government's economic diversification policy. Since then, the Island has become one of the busiest areas of film production in the British Isles, with over 80 feature films and TV dramas produced here. A strong, worldwide reputation has been earned by Isle of Man Film for its co-financing and co-producing role, whilst the Island’s profile has been significantly raised as a film location and provider of a skilled workforce and film studios. Given her special role Hilary Dugdale is an ideal person to review and reflect on this work. Wendy Thirkettle, Manx National Heritage Archivist, comments, ‘I am thrilled that Hilary has agreed to offer her insights into Isle of Man Film and how it has developed over almost 15 years. Just viewing the back catalogue of films produced on the Island in that period makes me wonder if Hilary has a tale or two to tell about particular productions.’  The talk will be complemented and followed by a screening of the entire film of Waking Ned which runs for 90 minutes. Starring Ian Bannen and James Nesbitt, among others, in a fine ensemble cast, this comedy tells the tale of Ned Devine’s lotto (lottery) success and how his friends rally to the cause. Some of the most memorable scenes use iconic Manx settings, standing in for Irish scenery.
Wendy adds, ‘The choice of feature film to screen was discussed but in the end there was no real contest since Waking Ned delivers on so many fronts. Quite apart from its inspired story line and memorable cinematography, the film locations of Cregneash and Niarbyl have strong links to Manx National Heritage’. Due to the expected popularity of the event, up to four tickets can be reserved by one person, either by ‘phone or by visiting the Manx Museum reception desk. The event is free with doors opening at 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start. More stories >>>
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