The voice behind new Irish animation Niko and the way to the stars talks cinema…
Set to hit cinema screens here in Ireland from November 28th, the CGI animated film “Niko and the Way to Stars” tells the story about a reindeer boy who longs to fly and dreams of one day meeting his father who is a celebrity member of the famous Santa’s Flying Forces. His desire to fly and find his real father leads him on a difficult and exciting journey accompanied by his true friend Julius, a flying squirrel, and Wilma a singing weasel whom they meet along the way.
“Niko is currently on release in Finland and enjoying the highest audience figures ever for a children’s movie after its fifth week. Altogether it has sold to over 120 countries and the Weinstein Company has bought the film for the US market and Pan Latin America,” explains Ralph Christians, executive producer with Magma.
Supported by the Irish Film Board and the Government of Ireland Section 481 tax incentive, Irish based writer Marteinn Thorisson co-wrote the screenplay, while young Irish actor and voice talent Andrew McMahon gives the voice to Niko.
Morgan Jones, Paul Tylak, Aileen Mythen, Alan Stanford and many other Irish actors feature in the film’s voice track which was originally cast and recorded in Ireland. Wicklow based composer Stephen McKeon has also created the orchestral film score. The Foley, sound-track and Dolby Print-Master were all done at Ardmore Sound. Here, Paul Tylak, the voice of the Black Wolf talks Movies.ie:
Q: How often to you get to sit down and watch a movie?
Only when the kids wanna go or when they are in bed and then I watch one with my wife.
Q: Tell us about the last movie you saw?
Journey to the centre of the earth in 3D – It was amazing. The 3D effects were unreal.
Q: What is your favourite Irish movie and why?
“Ryans Daughter” because it is set in Ireland and it’s a real powerful story.
Q: What is your favourite movie of all time?
“Dogday Afternoon” – Al Pacino and John Cazale
Q: What movie could you never sit through again?
Awakenings
Q: Describe your ideal movie cast… (actor, actress & director)
A young Jack Nicholson, Directed by Martin Scorsese with a young Meryl Streep
Q: Have you ever cried during a movie? Which one?
Yes, The Champ.
Q: Favourite movie snack?
Sweet Thai chilli crisps
Q: Favourite TV programme?
Six feet under
Q: Who would play you in the movie adaptation of your life?
A young Al Pacino
“Niko & The Way To The Stars” opens in Irish cinemas on November 28th