Ferdia Shaw, 13, is set to be catapulted into the spotlight as he takes centre stage in Disney's latest live action film, Artemis Fowl.

Directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, the young Irish newcomer will star alongside A-listers Dame Judi Dench and Josh Gad in the remake of the much loved cartoon, playing the tale's eponymous 12 year old genius who battles a hidden race of fairies who may be behind his father's disappearance. Shaw was chosen by Branagh from among 1200 other hopefuls to win the high profile role.