This year marked the final edition of IndieCork, Cork’s much-loved independent film and music festival, and we feel truly honoured to have been part of its journey. As headline sponsors over the years, we have cherished the opportunity to support a festival that celebrates creativity, independent storytelling, and the very best of Irish talent.
Honouring the Founders
IndieCork was founded in 2013 by Mick Hannigan, Úna Feely, and Tony Langlois. Their vision was simple yet powerful: to create a grassroots, independent festival where filmmakers, musicians, and audiences could come together, explore new ideas, and share stories that might otherwise go unheard.
- Mick Hannigan has been a central figure in Cork’s cinema landscape for decades.
- Úna Feely brought her experience and lifelong dedication to supporting Irish filmmaking.
- Tony Langlois, co-founder and music programmer, helped shape IndieCork’s identity through his creativity and his iconic trailer music. His passing was deeply felt, and his influence remains woven through the festival’s legacy.
Together, their dedication created a space for Irish talent to thrive, fostering a community where creativity and independent voices could flourish.
Celebrating Irish Talent
Each year, IndieCork has celebrated a wide range of filmmakers and artists, giving both emerging and established talent a platform to be seen and heard. This year, the Blacknight Best Irish Short Film Award was presented to Clíodhna Lyons for her animated short Póg mo Pigeon, joining a long list of talented winners who have been recognised at IndieCork over the years.
Blacknight Best Irish Short Film Award was presented to Clíodhna Lyons
Why we Supported IndieCork
At Blacknight, we take pride in supporting Irish creativity, heritage, and talent. By sponsoring festivals like IndieCork, we help ensure that Irish stories continue to be told, nurtured, and celebrated. While we are not involved in the festival’s programming or planning, being able to support its work and witness the incredible talent it showcases has been a privilege.
Coming from a background in the arts myself, being able to support a festival like IndieCork in my native Cork is something I’m incredibly proud of. Festivals like this give a platform to new voices and help keep Irish creativity alive. It’s been an honour to be part of that journey. – Michele Neylon | CEO Blacknight
A Festival’s Lasting Legacy
Although this was the final IndieCork, its impact will continue. The filmmakers it nurtured, the relationships it fostered, and the spirit of independent creativity it championed will resonate in Cork and across Ireland for years to come.
We are grateful to Mick, Úna, Tony, and the entire IndieCork community for allowing us to be part of this remarkable festival. And to all the filmmakers, past winners, and artists who shared their work on its stages. Thank you for inspiring us and audiences alike.
IndieCork may have come to an end, but the creativity, passion, and stories it celebrated will live on.
About the Author: Alicia Stumke
