The legendary Hollywood cinematographer, Nick McLean is set to visit Ireland for a series of events honouring his work. Joining McLean at numerous screenings, discussions, and masterclasses around the country is Hot Press' Wayne Byrne.

The pair have co-authored a book which details McLean’s life and work on some of the biggest films and television shows of the past fifty years. The first event is 'An Evening with Nick McLean' which will take place in Naas Community Library, County Kildare on Friday March 15 at 7pm.

Speaking on the collaboration, McLean recalls his working relationship with Byrne, “I met Wayne when I wrote the foreword to his book about Burt Reynolds, who was a good friend of mine. I immediately appreciated Wayne’s expertise on cinema and his deep love for film history.

“When he suggested to me that there should be a book on my career I told him I would only ever do it with him. Wayne makes it such a comfortable experience and he understands the art of film like few others; he knew as much or even more about my work than I did! Wayne knows the most obscure films that I shot!”

Byrne, long influenced by McLean’s work said: “Nick’s work is some of the best film photography ever committed to celluloid. He started out working with Steven Spielberg, Robert Altman, Brian De Palma, and so on, helping develop the visual style of the New Hollywood era. He soon became one of the best cinematographers in the business.

“Even if you never heard the name ‘Nick McLean’ before, you will have seen and enjoyed his work, in the blockbuster movies that he shot or TV shows like Friends. My first encounter with Nick was seeing him playing Corey Feldman’s dad in The Goonies when I rented it on VHS about thirty years ago. Little did I realise that one day I’d be sharing a stage with him. Just listening to Nick talk about his career will be a fascinating insight and journey behind the scenes on some of Hollywood’s greatest movies.”

For McLean, this will be an opportunity to visit a country he has longed to see. “I can’t wait to see Ireland. I have wanted to see your beautiful country for a long time. I have heard from many that the people there have great respect for art and are passionate about movies, so I can’t wait to talk filmmaking with the movie lovers of Ireland.”

The Naas event is free of charge, though booking is essential. To reserve a seat, call Naas Library on 045 879111 or email them at [email protected]