Declan Curran - From YouTube to Film Festivals

In this episode, host Martin Nutty chats with Declan Curran, actor, writer, and producer of the acclaimed short film Dear Imelda. Declan traces his creative path from creating teenage comedy sketches on YouTube to crafting award-winning short films that have screened at festivals worldwide. His growing success is highlighted by a recent distribution deal brokered by Network Ireland Television (NITV) with the Japanese streaming platform SAMANSA, expanding his reach to international audiences. Recorded at the Capital Irish Film Festival in Washington, DC—hosted by Solas Nua—this conversation captures the vibrant, collaborative spirit of the festival. Declan discusses the realities of self-funding projects, the power of film festivals for emerging filmmakers, and the value of real-life connections in a digital age. He also reflects on the top-tier screening experience at venues like the AFI Silver Theatre and the support he’s found through family collaborations, particularly with his cousin Arón Holden, director of Dear Imelda.Looking ahead, Declan talks about his aspirations to transition into feature filmmaking and the lessons he’s carrying forward from his indie film success.LinksDeclan CurranWebsiteFacebookInstagramFilmographyDear Imelda (2024 - Trailer)Birthday (2023)Shall We Sit (2023)Shine (2021)Solas NuaWebsiteCapital Irish Film Festival 2025Other LinksSAMANSANetwork Television Ireland (NITV)AFI SilverEpisode Details: Season 7, Episode 22; Total Episode Count: 125Send us Fan Mail