The People of the Emerald Isle
This Saturday is St. Patrick’s Day!
Originally a holiday to commemorate the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, St. Patrick’s Day has since morphed into a celebration of Irish culture and heritage. People across the world observe the holiday by wearing green, attending parades, feasting and drinking (I will certainly be celebrating with at least one of the above!).
In addition to these fun traditions, the Emerald Isle has also given us some pretty great people! I am myself a big fan of Chris O’Dowd. Some of you may know this Irish actor and comedian from such movies as Pirate Radio, Dinner for Schmucks, or Bridesmaids, but I first fell for the big Irish lug when I stumbled across the British sitcom The IT Crowd on Netflix. Focusing on the shenanigans of a three-member IT department, O’Dowd had my comedic heart from “Have you tried turning it on and off again?”
Curious about what other great Irish talent is out there, I asked some of my fellow AMS Pictures co-workers who their favorite Irishmen (and women) are:
Brad Osborne (Sr. Director, Producer):
When it comes to Irish-born screen talent, it’s hard to top the legendary Maureen O’Hara. She’s known for so many memorable roles, but my personal favorite is 1991’s Only the Lonely with John Candy. A magnificent performance in a totally underrated movie.
Kim Clemons (Sr. Producer, Writer):
Bono isn’t just a writer, musician and front man for U2. He’s also a philanthropist and political activist who’s helped raise millions to aide Africans with his ONE Campaign and several other organizations. Bono was even nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize! What makes this brilliant Irishman even sexier is that he’s been married to the same woman for almost 30 years.
Rachel Kuykendall (Associate Producer):
I loved Jonathan Rhys Meyers in Woody Allen’s Match Point and as Henry III in The Tudors. He lit up every scene he was in and exuded Irish charm.
Randy Martin (Executive Producer, Director):
Rory McIlroy – this fiery, post Tiger Woods golf superstar proves that the sport continues to evolve as he took last year’s U.S. Open Title… some of Rory’s shots make even a somewhat jaded golf fan hold their breath.
Randy also had another pick for his favorite:
The Edge (David Evans) – few guitarists have been able to make their mark sonically as much as this low key County Dublin-resident. His playing is rather simple but his aural palette is perhaps one of the broadest to ever be recorded.
Now, we’re obviously missing some other great Irish greats here. Who’s your favorite?