Irish cinema continues to shine on the global stage as acclaimed actress Saoirse Ronan presented fellow countryman Paul Mescal with the prestigious vantage award at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures gala event in Los Angeles. Mescal, who first captured audiences’ hearts in the hit series NORMAL PEOPLE, has since proven his versatility with an Oscar-nominated performance in AFTERSUN and is now poised to step into one of the most anticipated roles of his career in GLADIATOR II.

The 28-year-old actor’s rapid ascent in Hollywood was celebrated by Ronan, 30, who had recently shared the screen with him in the science fiction psychological thriller FOE. The vantage award, which recognizes emerging artists who challenge conventional cinema narratives, seems particularly fitting for Mescal, whose thoughtful performance choices have consistently pushed boundaries in contemporary storytelling.

This recognition at the gala’s fourth annual event further cements both actors’ positions as leading figures in a new generation of Irish talent making waves in international cinema. Their collaboration in FOE and their continued support of each other’s success highlights the strong bonds within the Irish acting community, even as they make their mark on the global stage.