Lifetime Achievement Award
Nuala Moiselle
A key figure within Irish film and television, Nuala Moiselle was a legendary Casting Director whose career spanned over three decades. Widely respected for her impeccable eye for talent and her deep understanding of character, Nuala played a vital role in shaping the landscape of Irish screen storytelling. Her casting work was instrumental in the success of some of Ireland’s most iconic films, including My Left Foot (1989), The Field (1990), and Veronica Guerin (2003). Beyond the big screen, Nuala made an indelible mark on television, contributing to the international success of several acclaimed series. She was a key casting force behind global hits such as Vikings, Penny Dreadful, and The Tudors, each noted not just for their production values, but for their exceptional ensemble performances. Her work on The Tudors was particularly celebrated, earning her three consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Casting in 2007, 2008, and 2009.
“Michael Gambon is a unique Irish talent who brings passion, skill and charisma to every screen role. A consummate professional with extraordinary wit and good humour, he has consistently delivered superb performances across a diverse range of pivotal roles and characters."
Aine Moriarty, IFTA CEO
Gambon is one of the leading thespians of his generation, having started out in theatre under the guidance of Laurence Olivier. He was invited to audition for James Bond in 1970 and went on to hone his craft on stage and screen over the following decade. He received universal critical acclaim in 1986 for his spectacular performance as tormented mystery writer Philip Marlow in Dennis Potter’s BBC Drama The Singing Detective, one of the most famous and provocative dramas of its time, which challenged boundaries with its daring concept and bold characters. Gambon’s most recent roles include TV Dramas such as ‘Churchill's Secret’, ‘The Hollow Crown’, ‘The Nightmare World's of HG Wells’, ‘Fortitude’ and his feature film work including 'Viceroy's House', 'Mad to be Normal', and 'Dad's Army'. His next project looks set to see him reunite with Michael Caine to play a part of a gang of elderly London Diamond robbers alongside Jim Broadbent and Ray Winstone, in the yet untitled film about the Hatton Garden jewellery heist of 2015.