Ardmore Studios is projecting a return to profit this year after securing two major productions including one led by Hollywood stars, Michael Fassbender and Maggie Gyllenhaal.

The projected return to profit by the Co Wicklow studios comes months after the studios missed out on a contract for a US television series, Vikings, to neighbouring Ballyhenry Studios.

However, chief executive Siún Ní Raghallaigh said yesterday the studios will see “a return to profitability in 2013”.

Frank, directed by Lenny Abrahamson who made Garage and What Richard Did, stars Michael Fassbender. He will be joined by Maggie Gyllenhaal who starred in The Dark Knight.

The second project is Jam Media’s children’s television series Roy for BBC.