click on the film title links below for more on each film or Download the 2021 Program Guide HERE
All films are available for rental at any time during the festival (May 7 – 15) HERE
for a step by step guide to renting and watching a film click HERE
The 8th
The 8th traces Ireland’s campaign to remove the 8th Amendment – a constitutional ban on abortion. The 8th shows a country forging a new progressive path at a time when reproductive rights are threatened around the world.
Arracht
1845 on the eve of The Great Hunger. Colmán Sharkey, a fisherman, a father, a husband, takes in a stranger, Patsy, at the behest of a local priest. As the crops rot in the fields, Colmán, his brother and Patsy travel to the English Landlord’s house to request a stay on rent increases. His request falls deaf ears and Patsy’s subsequent actions set Colmán on a path that will take him to the edge of survival, and sanity. It is only upon encountering an abandoned young girl that Colmán’s resolve is lifted. Just in time for the darkness of his past to pay another visit.
Breaking Ice preceded by The Grass Ceiling
BREAKING ICE: The trials and tribulations of the Irish Bobsled Team as they attempt to qualify for the Olympics overcoming a mounting series of obstacles and roadblocks – starting with the fact that none of them have ever been in a bobsled!
THE GRASS CEILING: In this creative documentary short film, three successful female athletes explore how being physically courageous, unapologetically competitive and deeply passionate in team sport can unlock a freedom to really occupy your own skin.
The Hunger
Narrated by Liam Neeson, this is the story of the great Irish Famine of the 1840s. The Hunger sets out to reveal the extraordinary and appalling story of one of the worst humanitarian disasters of the 19th century.
Redemption of a Rogue
A bible, black comedy about a prodigal son returning to his hometown to seek salvation for his sins.
Short Program #1
Eight short films from some of Ireland’s most exciting talents including: How to Fall in Love in a Pandemic, Defrost, Barriers, Parenting, The Dead Hands of Dublin, Welcome to the Bright White Limbo, A Better You and Ascending Grace.
Short Program #2
Seven short films from some of Ireland’s most exciting talents including: Pat, Cuinas (Silence), Miss and the Missus, Peggy & the Grim, Paddy, Sister This and Rough.
The Winter Lake
After making a grim discovery in a seasonal lake, a withdrawn teenager discovers the truth about his neighbours, a father and daughter harbouring sinister secrets.