The Northwest Film Challene was part of Rathmullan Film Festival 23.
As a result of an open invitation, 12 new and emerging filmmakers were challenged to create a three-minute film using archival footage. Póca Productions of Donegal worked with the participants over the course of a number of online workshops to produce these amazing films, all of which were screened at the Rathmullan Film Festival.
Of her film, 'The Futurist', Leanne McLaughlin writes:
"For generations, Gerry’s family has cared for these lands, and has nurtured the animals and life within. Gerry has watched the changes throughout these years, bearing witness to the deterioration of our land, water and ecosystems. Gerry is a farmer, who cares for no other way of life than the life he is living now. He gives advice to us all for the future. “Leave the land be,walk away now, and close the gate”. We must pay heed and allow the land to heal. For if we continue our utilitarian ways this wonderous place we call home will be no more."
Leanne's film won the Environmental Award at Disappear Here Film Festival 2023.