Westport-made film wins Best Short Irish Film at film festival
Mark McAuley’s Mayo-made ‘Horseback’ takes top Irish short film award for powerful story of loss, hope and healing
The Westport-made short film ‘Horseback’ has taken home one of the top honours on Sunday, August 30 at the 17th Underground Cinema International Film Festival (UCIFF), with Horseback winning Best Short Irish Film.
Directed by Mark McAuley, the film tells the moving story of Ali, a 10-year-old non-verbal refugee boy seeking asylum with his family in rural Ireland.
Haunted by the loss of his mother, Ali struggles to communicate and adapt to his new surroundings. His life begins to change when he meets a gentle piebald pony and Kitty, a Traveller woman who owns the animal.
A bond develops between Ali and the pony, providing him with a sense of trust and security. When Kitty and the pony eventually leave, Ali experiences another painful loss, but the experience ultimately gives him the courage to find his voice and share his grief with his father.
The 12-minute film is produced by Westport-based Emer Durcan from Western Front Studios and Dorthy Whittaker, with a screenplay by Bairbre O’Toole.
The win at UCIFF adds to an impressive run for the Mayo-made production, which previously received its Irish premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh.
McAuley was also nominated for Best Director at this year’s festival, following the film’s recognition among a strong field of independent Irish productions.
‘Horseback’ was one of five films nominated for Best Short Irish Film, alongside Get A Grip, Grace, Stuck and ’Till Death Do Us Part.
The film’s success also highlights the strength of independent filmmaking in Mayo, with a locally made production receiving national recognition for a story that connects deeply with themes of migration, community and finding belonging.