LENNY Abrahamson has been unveiled as the new patron of the Irish Film Festival London.
The multi-award winning Irish director – whose most recent film Room is nominated for four Oscars, including one for him as Best Director – revealed his pride in being appointed for the role.
“I am a big fan of the festival and the opportunities they’re providing for Irish filmmakers in the UK,” he said.
“They are bringing the best of contemporary Irish film to audiences in London and I’m proud to be a part of what they’re accomplishing.”
Best known for his films Adam & Paul, Garage, What Richard Did and Frank, Abrahamson has worked with Hollywood actors including Brie Larson, Michael Fassbender and Maggie Gyllenhall.
Festival Director Kelly O’Connor said the Abrahamson’s new role as Patrol was well deserved.
“We love Lenny’s work and have had the privilege of screening all of his films over the years,” Kelly said.
“He has always been very supportive of us and we are thrilled to welcome him on board as a Patron”.
Dublin-born Abrahamson, whose work has been described as drily funny, inquisitive, and plangent, joins London-based casting director Ros Hubbard as patron of the festival.
Irish Film London, which is now entering its sixth year, has planned a range of events for 2016.
They include British screenings of the global screening of 1916, The Rebellion, on March 16, and a number of new Irish films including Sing Street.