Meaning: The quote "Angel was the first Irish feature film. Neil's first movie and my first movie." by Stephen Rea, the actor, provides valuable insight into the significance of the film "Angel" within the context of Irish cinema and the careers of those involved. Stephen Rea's words highlight the groundbreaking nature of the film as the first Irish feature film, the directorial debut of Neil Jordan, and Rea's own inaugural foray into the world of cinema. This quote encapsulates the historical and personal significance of "Angel" and sheds light on its impact on the Irish film industry and the careers of its key contributors.

"Angel" holds a pivotal place in the history of Irish cinema as the first feature film to emerge from the country. Released in 1982, the film marked a significant milestone in the development of the Irish film industry, paving the way for future filmmakers and contributing to the growing recognition of Irish cinema on the international stage. As the inaugural Irish feature film, "Angel" played a vital role in establishing Ireland as a notable presence in the global film landscape and laid the foundation for the flourishing of the country's cinematic output in the years to come.

Moreover, Stephen Rea's identification of "Angel" as Neil Jordan's first movie underscores the director's emergence onto the cinematic scene. Neil Jordan, who would go on to become a prominent figure in the film industry, began his directorial journey with "Angel." This debut marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see Jordan helming a diverse array of acclaimed films, earning him accolades and cementing his reputation as a talented and influential filmmaker. The quote thus illuminates the significance of "Angel" as the formative work of a director who would leave an enduring impact on the world of cinema.

Additionally, Stephen Rea's acknowledgment of "Angel" as his first movie holds personal significance, offering a glimpse into the early stages of his acting career. For Rea, "Angel" represented a pivotal moment, marking the commencement of his cinematic journey and setting the stage for his future accomplishments as an actor. His portrayal in "Angel" not only contributed to the film's impact but also served as a launching pad for his subsequent roles, ultimately shaping his career trajectory in the film industry.

In summary, Stephen Rea's quote encapsulates the historical and personal significance of "Angel" within the realms of Irish cinema and the careers of its key contributors. As the first Irish feature film, the directorial debut of Neil Jordan, and an early milestone for Stephen Rea as an actor, "Angel" holds a crucial place in the annals of Irish film history. The quote serves as a testament to the film's groundbreaking nature, its role in shaping the careers of those involved, and its lasting impact on the Irish film industry.