Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes has declared that he is "always happy to come to Dublin".
The actor who received an Oscars nod for his role in pope drama, Conclave, was present at the premiere of his latest movie, The Return, which took place at the opening night of the Dublin International Film Festival.
On the importance of festivals like this in supporting filmmakers, Fiennes said, "It's hard to make films nowadays. So, support or exposure like this is to be welcomed for the industry".
Moving onto his love of Ireland, Ralph Fiennes continued, "Well, I have a connection with Ireland because I was here in my early teens – West Cork and Kilkenny,".
"I was back here and worked in the Gate Theatre in the wonderful Brian Friel play, Faith Healer. I have a bit of history going back to when I was young. I always feel very happy to be back in Dublin".
Fiennes also praised the country for continuing to produce such "amazing actors, directors and writers", noting that Colm Bairéad's film An Cailín Ciúin (The Quite Girl), had "blown me away".
"It's absolutely extraordinary - you've never had a shortage of talent in this country. Never!", he stated.
Conclave was also Fiennes' first Academy Award nod since 1997, which saw him nominated for his role in the English Patient, where he played a Hungarian Pilot and desert explorer.
This year's ceremony takes place on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre in LA.
