The eagerly awaited nominations for the 21st Irish Film & Television Awards have been announced, spotlighting the remarkable talent within the Irish cinematic and television landscape. Brendan Canty's compelling film, "Christy," stands out with an impressive fourteen nominations, signaling a strong contender in various categories. Celebrated performers Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, and Daniel Day-Lewis have also earned significant accolades, further highlighting the competitive nature of this year's awards. The prestigious ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 20 at Dublin's Royal Convention Centre, where the best in Irish entertainment will be honored.
Irish Film & Television Awards: A Stellar Lineup Revealed
On January 20, 2026, the nominations for the 21st Irish Film & Television Awards (IFTA) were publicly released, showcasing a vibrant array of talent in Irish film and television. The ceremony, a beacon for national cinematic achievement, is set to captivate audiences at the Royal Convention Centre in Dublin on February 20. Among the distinguished nominees, Jessie Buckley garnered recognition for her powerful portrayal in Chloe Zhao's historical drama, "Hamnet," where her co-star Paul Mescal also secured a nomination. Daniel Day-Lewis received a nod for his compelling role in "Anemone," a project directed by his son, Ronan. Cillian Murphy was acknowledged for his performance in Tim Mielants' feature, "Steve."
Brendan Canty's film "Christy" emerged as a frontrunner, collecting a total of 14 nominations, including those for Best Film and Best Director, alongside acting nominations for Daniel Power, Emma Willis, and Jamie Forde. This poignant narrative delves into the complex relationship between two estranged brothers from Cork, forced to confront their past and reconnect. The Best Film category features a strong lineup including "Aontas," "Blue Moon," "Christy," "Four Mothers," "Saipan," and "Steve."
In the television arena, Anthony Guinness was nominated for his work on Netflix's "House of Guinness," which also saw a nomination for "Game of Thrones" alumnus Jack Gleeson. Alison Oliver from "Saltburn" received recognition for her role in HBO's "Task." The International Film category presents a diverse selection, with "Hamnet" competing against "Bugonia," "One Battle After Another," "Palestine ’36," "Sentimental Value," and "Sinners." Prominent international actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, James McArdle, Sean Penn, and Jesse Plemons are also among the nominees for their respective performances. Similarly, the International Actress category celebrates exceptional talent including Chase Infiniti, Jennifer Lawrence, Margaret Qualley, Renate Reinsve, Emma Stone, and Teyana Taylor.
The IFTA nominations not only celebrate individual achievements but also underscore the burgeoning creativity and storytelling prowess within Ireland's film and television industries. This annual event serves as a crucial platform for elevating Irish narratives and performers onto the global stage.
The announcement of the IFTA nominations serves as a compelling reminder of the rich tapestry of talent and storytelling that defines Irish cinema and television. It highlights the importance of national awards in recognizing and fostering local artistic achievements, providing a crucial platform for both emerging and established artists. Such events inspire future generations of filmmakers and actors, encouraging them to pursue their creative visions and contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape.