Many have praised Michael Dwyer over the past week. Here are some of the accolades sent to us
FILM FESTIVAL TO HONOUR ITS FOUNDER
In his eulogy at Michael Dwyer’s funeral on Tuesday, Daniel Day Lewis suggested the Jameson Dublin International Film Festival be renamed in Michael’s honour. “I have nothing against whiskey, but I would love to think that from now on that festival could be renamed after him,” he said.
Whether or not that happens, it has been announced that this year’s festival will be dedicated to the memory of “founder, colleague and dear friend Michael Dwyer”.
“As part of the festival programme, there will be a special season of films previously selected and championed by Michael, including the hit of the 2004 film festival Marco Tullio Giordana’s The Best of Youth,” a festival statement reads.
Festival director Grainne Humphreys said: “I have known Michael for over 25 years and will miss him terribly as both a friend and colleague. Having watched many films side by side, I loved his infectious enthusiasm, from Hollywood blockbusters to niche art-house, from auteurs to amateurs. In February, we will present a selection of the films Michael discovered and championed to Irish audiences over the years. We dedicate the 2010 festival to his memory.”
‘HE SHARED HIS LOVE FOR THE MEDIUM WITH ALL’ – COLIN FARRELL
“Ireland has lost its greatest fan of cinema and the world one of its most uncynical of journalists. Michael’s involvement in film went beyond the pale of critiquing. He was a student and professor of film who shared his love for the medium with all. Though gone he leaves behind a wealth of work, and a very real ambition for the growth of Irish cinema, of which he was such a pioneer.
“From the very beginning, for me, his kindness and keen intellect were a wonder to be around. I will miss speaking with him because an interview with Michael was more than a session of Q and A. It always felt, quite simply, like a chat between friends. Best, Colin.”
WIM WENDERS PAYS TRIBUTE
“I was very sad to hear about Michael Dwyer’s death. I met him on several occasions and was highly impressed by his competence, his brilliance and his kindness. Film criticism in Europe is losing one of its most important voices. Wim Wenders.”
Read more tributes or add your own, at www.irishtimes.com/ blogs/screenwriter.
