Born in 1977 in Newry, Northern Ireland, Tomm Moore became a pivotal figure in contemporary animation through his focus on Irish folklore. As a director, producer, and illustrator, he established the Cartoon Saloon studio in Kilkenny, fostering an independent production environment that produces hand-drawn features distributed globally via festival circuits and major streaming platforms.
Early Development and Education
Moore spent his formative years in Kilkenny following his family's move from Newry. His interest in film and animation developed during his time with the Young Irish Film Makers. Following his secondary education at St Kieran's College, he attended the Ballyfermot College of Further Education in Dublin, where he focused his studies on classical animation.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Establishing Cartoon Saloon
In 1999, during his final year at Ballyfermot, Moore co-founded Cartoon Saloon alongside Paul Young and Nora Twomey. Initially operating from a location shared with the Young Irish Film Makers, the studio eventually expanded to accommodate its growth. The company serves as the production hub for Moore's filmography and television projects, including the series Skunk Fu!.
The Folklore Trilogy
Moore gained international attention for an animated trilogy rooted in Irish history and legend. The series began with The Secret of Kells in 2009, co-directed by Nora Twomey. This was followed by Song of the Sea in 2014, which explored the mythology of selkies. The final installment, Wolfwalkers, arrived in 2020 as an Apple TV+ release, co-directed with Ross Stewart.
Graphic Novels and Prose Projects
Beyond his film work, Moore is an established illustrator and comics artist. He collaborated with writer Colmán Ó Raghallaigh on two Irish-language graphic novels regarding St. Patrick: An Sclábhaí, published in 2001, and An Teachtaire, published in 2003. Additionally, he illustrated a two-volume graphic novel adaptation of The Secret of Kells, released in French under the title Brendan et le secret de Kells.
Fast facts
- Born: 1977, Newry
- Citizenship: Ireland
- Primary studio: Cartoon Saloon
- Film trilogy: The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, Wolfwalkers
- Notable graphic novels: An Sclábhaí, An Teachtaire
- Education: St Kieran's College, Ballyfermot College of Further Education
Questions readers ask
What is Tomm Moore's animation style?
He utilizes traditional, hand-drawn animation techniques.
Did Tomm Moore contribute to the film The Prophet?
Yes, he co-directed a segment of the 2014 film alongside Ross Stewart.
Achievements
- Worked as film director, animator and screenwriter
.jpg)
