Filmmaker Charlie Joe Doherty awarded Donegal Film Office’s Emerging Talent Fund

Supported by Creative Ireland and Donegal County Council, the fund is designed to empower an emerging writer, producer, or director by providing vital support to secure their first production credit.

Donegal Donegal County Council says the fund will equip them with the confidence and necessary credit to apply for larger national funding and future industry opportunities.

“Beyond production, the initiative nurtures long-term career development, “ the council said.

“The completed project will be showcased at a Film Festival, ensuring visibility and recognition for the filmmaker, expanding their creative and professional network.

“The funded project Goth is a touching examination of the complexities of familial love and the search for belonging in a world that often feels isolating. The film looks to examine the essence of youth, the weight of expectations, and the importance of connection, culminating in a bittersweet yet hopeful relationship between two brothers as they reflect on their shared past and embrace the uncertainty of their future.”

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Charlie Joe Doherty said: “Goth resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost yet yearns for connection and understanding.

Through its vivid imagery, which resonates with the page and captures a Donegal that feels poignant in these times, the heartfelt message of this story reverberates through the two main characters who struggle with the growing pains of generational trauma, identity within themselves, and a need for direction and love from a spouse.

“It’s a real honour to be granted this year’s Donegal Emerging Talent Fund award, and it's an exciting challenge to have this support in realising a short film like this. Donegal has a breadth of stunning and period-driven locations and has served as a huge inspiration for me when either writing or making films, so I’m over the moon to be given the license to make this piece of work. Thank you to the film office and all involved for your continued support.”

Aideen Doherty of the Donegal Film Office said: “At its core, this initiative is about building confidence, enhancing skills, and creating meaningful opportunities within the local industry and beyond. By supporting a new creative voice, we aim to develop capacity, encourage artistic expression, and strengthen the vibrant storytelling culture of Donegal.

"This Fund is to support emerging Writers, Producers, and Directors based in the County. People working in this sector are dedicated to their craft, and we are keen to support their capacity to develop their stories and skills. Donegal Film Office is grateful to the National Creative Ireland Programme 2023-2027 for their continued support and for affording the county this opportunity”.

Donegal County Council added that the film office was delighted with the number and quality of the applications submitted and continues to advocate for those who have not been awarded funding.

“A panel from the industry was convened to consider applications and to award the fund. Applicants for the Emerging Talent Fund were required to show significant accomplishment in their field or display a high degree of promise in their ability to sustain the industry in the county,” the local authority said.