Research & Results

In order to obtain an insight into the film industry across Northern Ireland, an interview was conducted with Thomas Smyth, a local Ballymena filmmaker and prop designer that has spent an extended amount of time within the film sphere working with students and professionals alike to grow the industry in impressive ways. Below are some of the questions asked with their accompanied answers:

Interviewer: “How many short films have you provided props for, or contributed to in other ways such as cinematography work or acting?”

Thomas: “That number is well into double figures, lately I have been involved with many projects not only across the North coast but in media hubs like Derry/Londonderry and Belfast, I have also been involved in many student productions to help out the younger generations that aspire to join the industry.”

Interviewer: “Can you provide some examples of your work?”

Thomas: “Recently I have worked with a number of students from Magee College in Derry on an idea birthed by the film students there that asked what if Disney met Pulp Fiction? and decided to make a short film around that concept, I was blown away by not only the passion they had for the project but also their ability to demonstrate professional level work that looked like something you could see broadcast on Television”

Interviewer: “To someone wanting to join the already massive industry, what would your advice for them be?”

Thomas: “You have to be passionate, the Entertainment industry is built by those who love their profession and have the desire to push it further, and while yes there are opportunities to make a lot of money, you have to care about what you’re doing, I believe all students and non-students alike should consider that.”