A Christmas Star: The Irish movie that celebrates young film talent

We all love a good feel-good Christmas film, but this magical movie comes with a difference. 

A Belfast-based youth film festival charity, Cinemagic, presented the world premiere of A Christmas Star today in the Odyssey Cinema, Belfast to 2400 movie-goers. 

Film fans and industry supporters alike came together to support the young cast and crew of the movie, bringing the magic of Christmas to the city.

Oscar-winning writer, Julian Fellowes, who launched the project a year and a half ago said that she is very happy with the outcome of the film.

“I am proud to be associated with the fantastic work that Cinemagic does. We are told on every side that it’s time to lower barriers and cross frontiers and this is exactly what Cinemagic is doing. Young people, from every type of background and culture, are being encouraged to explore the world of film for themselves, first hand.

"We want them to break through the glass ceilings and walls that surround them, and see for themselves what it’s really like. Whether or not they continue to live or work in the Arts, there can surely be no better preparation for seeking and finding the right life.”

The film's young lead actress, Erin Galway-Kendrick, is a newcomer to the industry but that didn't stop her working alongside some of the industry's professionals such as Bronagh Waugh from Hollyoaks and The Fall and Richard Clements from A Belfast Story. 

The cast were also lucky enough to have Pierce Brosnan, Suranne Jones, Kylie Minogue and Dermot O'Leary feature in the film, as well as having it narrated by Liam Neeson. 

The 40+ crew aged 18-25 were all mentored by top industry professionals throughout their time filming, making the experience invaluable for them all. 

Cinemagic and Signature Entertainment bring A Christmas Star to cinemas in Ireland and the UK on November 13 but if you can't wait that long to see the magic, here's the trailer: