Are we still seen as backward?

Hollywood can be a powerful force, it can shape the opinion of viewers on many issues. From 'Into the West' to 'PS I Love You', movies can give us a glimpse into Ireland and show the world that we exist and are pretty darn great!

However, Hollywood often tend to show an idealized view of Ireland, one of leprechauns and shamrocks - begorrah, begosh!!

Is this a good thing or a bad thing for selling 'brand Ireland' and raising our world profile? Any publicity is good publicity, right?

'Brand Ireland' taking on the Oscars!

Oscar time is almost upon us and Ireland has something to celebrate - Irish animators are being tipped for success after receiving Oscar nominations; The Secret of Kells - Best Animated Feature, Granny O'Grimm's Sleeping Beauty - Best Animated Short Film and The Door has been nominated in the Best Short Film category. A nod must also be given to animator Richard Baneham for Best Visual Effects category for his work on Avatar.

With the movie industry booming, this could be a prime opportunity for 'brand Ireland', a chance to shine on a world stage and remind people that this wee island of ours is worth its weight in gold! Can Ireland redeem itself through the silver screen?