It’s that time of year again in Hollywood: the weekend of the Oscars. An air of anticipation fills the streets as stars and industry heavyweights gather to celebrate cinematic achievements. Just last night, the Oscar Wilde Awards paved the way for this grand event, showcasing the remarkable contributions of Irish talent in Hollywood. Walking on the iconic Green Carpet was not just a formality; it was a tribute to the legacy of Irish storytelling, all in support of the US Ireland Alliance and its dedicated scholarship fund.
This year’s atmosphere, however, is tinged with a somber note. A month earlier, catastrophic wildfires swept through Los Angeles, leaving destruction in their wake. While the major studios remain intact, the impact on the community is palpable. Many industry professionals, including technicians, craftspeople, and musicians—those whose names may never flash on a marquee—lost their homes and are now living in temporary accommodations. The dual shadow of these tragedies and the political climate, especially with the return of a controversial figure like President Donald Trump, who has had a rocky relationship with Hollywood, adds a layer of unease to the celebration.
In the wake of such challenges, the show must go on, and the Oscar Wilde Awards enter their 20th year with a spirit of resilience. A stellar lineup of honorees took the stage, including renowned producers Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall, alongside actors John C. Reilly and Éanna Hardwicke. Their noteworthy achievements were celebrated with award presentations from some familiar faces, including the ever-hilarious Will Ferrell, as well as talent agent Hylda Queally and film producer Macdara Kelleher.
Kelleher, a founder of Wild Atlantic Pictures, graced the stage to present the Wilde Card Award to Éanna Hardwicke, who is on the cusp of portraying soccer legend Roy Keane in an upcoming film. He described Hardwicke as a “brilliant and fearless actor” and the budding star didn’t hold back. “Yes, I played Roy Keane,” he quipped with a grin, reflecting on an experience he described as a “real privilege”—one he approaches with the enthusiasm of a devoted fan. “I grew up quoting movies like ‘Step Brothers’ with my brother,” he shared lightheartedly, emphasizing how pivotal pop culture was in shaping his formative years.
As Hardwicke reflected on his accolade and shared the stage with illustrious past Wilde Card recipients like Saoirse Ronan, he expressed gratitude, joyfully acknowledging, “I’ve coveted this award for so long.” His recent projects, including a film about the infamous Northern Bank robbery and an upcoming New York stage rendition of Chekhov’s “The Cherry Orchard,” only serve to highlight an exciting trajectory in his career.
Meanwhile, when talent agent Hylda Queally presented Kathleen Kennedy’s award, it was not just ceremonial. Queally painted an intimate picture of their initial encounter back in 1989. She recounted flipping through the Hollywood Directory—an exhaustive compilation of industry names—searching for an Irish connection in a foreign land. “Imagine my surprise when I landed on Kathleen’s name!” Queally said, underscoring the serendipity of their meeting. Today, Kennedy is a force to be reckoned with, having produced or executive produced over 70 feature films that collectively amassed an astounding 120 Academy Award nominations. Her legacy speaks volumes about her contributions to storytelling and cinematic history.
In her moving address, Kennedy reminisced about her experiences that shaped her career, from filming “Star Wars” with J.J. Abrams in the charming landscape of Dingle to working alongside Daniel Day-Lewis on “Lincoln.” “Working with Liam Neeson on ‘Schindler’s List’ was undeniably a highlight,” she reflected, evoking nostalgia as she navigated the intricate tapestry of her professional journey. She acknowledged the profound friendships fostered through collaboration, noting that experiences—whether projects come to fruition or not—are invaluable learning opportunities.
Trina Vargo, throughout the event, provided thought-provoking insights into the spirit of Irish creativity. “There’s something inherently resilient about the Irish identity,” she stated with fervor. “Our creativity and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the world. Tonight, we celebrate not just achievements, but the deep-rooted connections and friendships that elevate our craft.”
Transitioning gracefully into her husband Frank Marshall’s introduction, Kennedy shared a familiar Irish saying, “If you’re lucky enough to be Irish, you’re lucky enough.” Marshall, with the charm and wit one would expect, hinted at an upcoming “Jurassic World” film—a franchise rooted in history but ever-evolving, reminiscent of the storytelling legacy being celebrated that night.
Will Ferrell, in his signature playful manner, presented the Oscar Wilde Award to John C. Reilly. In a moment filled with humor, he said, “All the gifts that historically have come out of Irish society radiate from this man.” With a career that spans films like “Boogie Nights,” “Chicago,” and “The Hours,” Reilly’s versatility knows no bounds. Yet, it was during his emotional acceptance speech that the audience truly felt his connection to Ireland. He spoke of his South Chicago upbringing—rich in Irish culture—and how the values instilled in him resonate deeply. “While you give me this award tonight, you’ve already done so much for me,” he said, visibly moved.
Reilly’s words echoed the sentiments of Oscar Wilde, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity. “Oscar’s legacy reminds us of the enduring power of art and truth,” he articulated, drawing connections between Wilde’s vulnerabilities and the strength inherent in Irish artistry. “A nation’s greatness,” he noted, quoting a powerful voice of the past, “is measured by how it cares for the most vulnerable among us.”
Throughout the evening, amidst heartfelt speeches, poignant performances, and vibrant conversations, the community came together—not just to celebrate accolades but to fortify the relationships that sustain and nourish them. As the night drew to a close, there was a shared understanding: the stories we tell and the connections we forge will continue to shape the landscape of storytelling in unforeseen ways.
As we now prepare for the glitz and glamour of the Oscars ahead, let’s remain mindful—Hollywood may sparkle, but the heart of this industry lies in the unyielding spirit of its creators.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
