The Banshees of Inisherin, a film about friendship, which features a donkey as one of its central characters, has won four BAFTAs, including Outstanding British Film.
A spokesperson from The Donkey Sanctuary said: “At its heart, this is a film about companionship. The bond between Padraic and Jenny symbolises true friendship. Unlike Colm, Jenny the donkey is characteristically patient, loyal and reliable - the human friend we’d all love to have.”
Donkeys are having something of a moment in film. Banshees has had success at the Golden Globes and now the BAFTAs; and EO, a film showing the world from the donkey’s perspective, which won the Jury Prize at Cannes, has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards. Banshees is also hotly tipped for Oscars success.
The spokesperson added: “What’s so refreshing about the way donkeys have been portrayed in Banshees and EO is that they have been shown as the inquisitive, sensitive and loveable animals they are.
“Donkeys have been loyal and trusted companions to humans for millennia. We are delighted by the success of these films and the fact donkeys are finally getting their moment in the spotlight. We will certainly be keeping our fingers (and hooves!) crossed that EO, Jerzy Skolimowski’s sensitive and insightful portrayal of a donkey, takes home the Oscar for Best International Feature Film.”
For interviews, images and information please contact The Donkey Sanctuary press office on 01395 573124 or 07870 849563 (including out of hours) or send an email.
The Donkey Sanctuary is the world's largest equine welfare charity. Our vision is a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued. We run 10 sanctuaries around the UK and Europe, giving lifelong care to more than 7,000 donkeys and mules. Our hospital treats sick donkeys and trains vets both nationwide and worldwide. Our donkey-facilitated learning programme helps vulnerable children and adults develop life skills by connecting with donkeys on an emotional and physical level. The charity operates programmes worldwide for animals working in agriculture, industry and transportation, and those used in the production of meat and skin.
Please note that the name ‘The Donkey Sanctuary’ should not be abbreviated to ‘Donkey Sanctuary’, and the word ‘The’ should always appear with a capital ‘T’ as above.