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SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

We warmly welcome you to the 69th Cork International Film Festival. Over 11 days, you have the unique opportunity to ‘see it first in Cork’ - the latest and best films from Ireland and around the world across multiple venues in Cork city and county.

Harnessing the power of storytelling since 1956, our mission is to present Ireland’s most exciting, diverse and ambitious annual film festival, linking Cork audiences and artists to the world and bringing the world to Cork.

Our year-round education and outreach programmes create opportunities for young people to access the arts, develop their creativity, and be empowered to tell their own stories. Our unique and free youth film and mental health programme, Intinn, has supported nearly 8,000 young people to date, and we hope to launch Intinn Plus, a specialised film and workshop programme for neurodivergent young people, in 2025.

Our sincere thanks to all our audiences, Festival Friends, Corporate Members, funders, donors, sponsors, partners and our newly established Director’s Circle - your support is highly valued.

As a registered Charity, we rely on the generosity of our Patrons alongside public funding to continue to deliver a world-class cultural experience that engages and welcomes 70,000 people each year. Please help us to continue this valuable work and and positive impact on communities.

We look forward to announcing more innovative and ambitious outreach programmes and events to mark our milestone 70th edition in 2025.

If you are able, please help us do more by becoming a Festival Friend or Corporate Member, or simply add a donation to your ticket purchase.

If you would like to know more about our new philanthropic Director’s Circle, please contact us.

Further information at corkfilmfest.org/support

Further information at corkfilmfest.org/support. Your support, whatever the size, makes a big difference.

BECOME A FESTIVAL FRIEND

Enjoy the Festival with complimentary tickets, discounts, access to year-round events, and more.

• Festival Friend €189

• Double Festival Friend €299

• Festival Best Friend €289 (Ticket to all films)

• Double Festival Best Friend €399 (Tickets to all films)

For more info contact marketing@corkfilmfest.org

BECOME A CORPORATE MEMBER

Support the Festival and avail of complimentary tickets and discountsperfect for staff engagement and client entertainment with great visibility for your company.

• Debut Corporate Membership €500

• Classic Corporate Membership €1,000

• Premiere Corporate Membership €2,500

BOOK ONLINE NOW

Customer Service Phone Line on +353 (0) 21 427 1711

9:30 - 17:30, Mon - Fri, 16 Oct - 6 Nov; 9:45 - 20:30, every day, 7 - 17 Nov

Customer Service: help@corkfilmfest.org

Charity Number: CHY20218 ALL TICKETS MUST BE BOOKED ONLINE AT: CORKFILMFEST.ORG OR VIA THE MYCIFF APP

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Concession prices apply to under 25s, senior citizens (65+), full-time students and the unwaged. For full details of our ticketing terms and conditions, and for additional information, please visit our website at corkfilmfest.org. Please note that all information contained in this guide is correct at the time of printing but changes may occur. Access info on p. 54 and at corkfilmfest.org/access.

Cork International Film Festival CLG, 13 Bridge House, St. Patrick’s Quay, Cork T23 DX9K corkfilmfest.org

Tel: +353 (0) 21 427 1711

Email: info@corkfilmfest.org

Company Number: 081633

Opening Gala: Conclave

Irish Gala: Blue Road: The Edna O’Brien Story

Documentary Gala: The Making of a Japanese

Family Gala: Fox and Hare Save the Forest

Passes make great gifts. Simply click ‘Give as a gift’ on checkout, purchase the pass and download the voucher or email the pass directly to your best pal! ONLINE PROGRAMME

SCHOOLS SCREENINGS Per Student (Accompanying teachers go free)

WELCOME

#CIFF2024

DAVID PUTTNAM PATRON

I am immensely proud to represent Cork International Film Festival as its Patron. Film has the power to enlighten, enrich understanding, foster empathy and encourage action. At its best, cinema can speak to people of every age, from every background, and in unique ways; it can be a great force for good. That power is magnified in a festival context, creating a unique environment for transformative film experiences that embrace and celebrate our common humanity. In this ever more complex and difficult world, we, more than ever, need these special cultural spaces to engage, reflect, and reimagine the world. Cork International Film Festival plays just such a vital role in the cultural life of Cork. Please join me in supporting the Festival and ensure that it continues to deliver its positive impact as it nears its 70th anniversary in 2025.

CLLR. DAN BOYLE

ARDMHÉARA CHORCAÍ - LORD MAYOR OF CORK

Cork City Council is extremely proud to support Cork International Film Festival as our vibrant city of culture celebrates Ireland’s first and largest film festival in its 69th edition. Rooted in Cork and embracing the diversity of the global world we are all connected to, the Festival programme encourages pride in our heritage while sparking new ideas and conversation. Showcasing the very best of home-grown and international talent, the Festival highlights Cork as an international city, and very much a European city, unafraid to do things differently - eclectic, inclusive and welcoming.

As Cork’s First Citizen, I warmly encourage you to join me in exploring all that the Festival offers and enjoy the spotlight on Cork in November.

CIAN BLACKWELL

CHAIR OF THE BOARD

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Cork International Film Festival. It’s only my first festival as Chair of the Festival board, but it’s the 69th time that Cork has been proud to host the best and longest-running film festival on this island.

This year, you will yet again be presented with an outstanding and diverse selection of cinematic gems, brought to you not just by our fantastic programming team, but by our entire dedicated cohort of staff and volunteers that you’ll meet throughout the Festival.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the generous support of our funders, partners, Festival Friends, Corporate Members and our new Director’s Circle, nor without the support of you, our loyal and indispensable audiences. Thank you for ensuring the success of the Festival, and helping to set us up for the proud milestone of our 70th anniversary next year. Enjoy the show!

INTRODUCTION

DISCOVER FILM, REIMAGINE THE WORLD

Welcome to the 69th Cork International Film Festival. 2024 marks a period of exciting new beginnings for us. We are thrilled to introduce Cian Blackwell as our new Chair and Aurélie Godet as our Director of Programming. Together, they bring a refreshed perspective to our strategic and artistic vision that will guide us as we approach our milestone 70th anniversary next year.

As we carefully plan, curate, and present the diverse selection of films and events in our extensive programme, we are acutely aware of the significant role that a cultural institution like our Festival plays. We understand the responsibility we have to our local and global communities as we engage with filmmakers and artists in a dynamic relationship. At the core of our mission is the defence of artistic expression and the belief that the Festival should serve as a platform for transformative experiences for audiences, fostering connection and dialogue through engagement, welcoming and inclusive of all.

In line with our commitment to supporting filmmakers, we have expanded our range of awards to recognise their creative achievements. Film has the power to challenge boundaries, shift perspectives, and create moments of pure joy that resonate deeply with audiences. Our hope is that you will discover films throughout the Festival and beyond that not only accomplish these aspirations but also exceed them, leaving a lasting impact on all who experience them.

Thank you for joining us on this exciting cinematic adventure.

FIONA CLARK FESTIVAL DIRECTOR & CEO

A world of stories is coming to you, in all of its kaleidoscopic diversity. To guide you through this wealth of choices, some of CIFF’s programme strands were renamed to clarify their promise:

Irish cinema’s creative dynamism is for all to appreciate in Irish Voices and the Best New Irish Feature competition, as well as our short film programmes.

The beloved Guilty Pleasures has grown into Disruptors to welcome new films alongside the disruptors of film history who inspired them Spirit of the Festival highlights a more complete sample of the best emerging filmmakers from Europe, our continent.

The films in World Tour have an irresistible, universal appeal and those in Momentum invite you to a transformative odyssey.

Not to forget the closer look on mental health offered by Illuminate and on environmental issues by Green Screen. The dizzying inventiveness of the artists featured in Parallax and the thematic echoes created by this year’s time-bending Retrospective. With, always, our Culinary strand for dessert.

And remember, the films in our Family programme are for everyone to enjoy and an ideal entry point into a realm of images that carry meaning.

See you very soon!

AURÉLIE GODET DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING

SCHEDULE

THU 7 FRI 8 SAT 9 SUN 10 MON 11 TUE 12

Morning 10:00

The Magic ReindeerSaving Santa's Sleigh 11:00 Everyman (p. 38)

Bambi, A Tale of Life in the Woods 11:00 Everyman (p. 38)

Irish Shorts 2: In Competition 11:30 ARC (p. 44)

John Crowley ‘In Conversation’ 11.45 Triskel (p.27)

Afternoon 12:00

Bird 14:30 ARC (p. 22)

The Belle From Gaza 14:30 Triskel (p. 28)

Parallax Emerging Film Artist Exhibition: Opening Reception 13:00 Lord Mayor's Pavilion (p. 43)

Millennium Actress 13:00 ARC (p. 36)

Schools Screening 10:00 ARC Cinema, Gate Mallow & Midleton, Reel Cinema Ballincollig (p. 39)

Intinn - Screening + Workshop 10:00 St. Peter's (p. 39)

Schools Screening 10:00 ARC Cinema, Gate Mallow & Midleton, Reel Cinema Ballincollig (p. 39)

Irish Shorts 4: Out of Competition 13:00 ARC (p. 45)

International Shorts 3 13:30 ARC (p. 47)

Universal Language 13:30 Triskel (p. 30) Dog on Trial 14:00 ARC (p. 23) The Fable 13:15 ARC (p. 23) The Art of Time 15:00 Triskel (p. 36)

Apple Cider Vinegar 15:00 ARC (p. 28) At Averroès & Rosa Parks 14:15 ARC (p. 31)

Windless 15:30 ARC (p. 30) Screen Ireland Shorts 14:30 Everyman (p. 45)

Just Above The Surface Of The Earth 16:30 Triskel Cinema (p. 32)

If I Fall Don't pick Me Up 17:15 ARC (p. 20)

Gloria! 17:30 Everyman (p. 16)

Paddington in Peru 17:30 ARC (p. 38)

The Story of Souleymane 17:45 ARC (p. 26)

Irish Shorts 3: Pure Cork 14:00 Everyman (p. 45) Strange Abandoned Deranged 14:00 ARC (p. 42) The Imminent Age 15:30 ARC (p. 16)

Petra Kelly - Act Now! 14:00 Triskel (p. 32)

Young Hearts 14:30 Triskel (p. 38)

International Shorts 4 15:45 ARC (p. 47)

The Fable 14:30 ARC (p. 23) Sleep #2 14:00 ARC (p. 42) International Shorts 1 15:30 ARC (p. 46) Universal Language 16:00 ARC (p. 30)

Strange Abandoned Deranged 14:45 ARC (p. 42)

Moon 15:30 ARC (p. 25) In Limbo 16:00 ARC (p. 37) The Irish Lumières + King of Spades 17:30 Triskel (p. 20)

Young Hearts 15:45 Triskel (p. 38) Trumpets 16:00 ARC (p. 21) Windless 16:00 ARC (p. 30) Lesson Learned 17:30 ARC (p. 17)

Bring Them Down 17:15 Everyman (p. 18) Shambhala 16:30 ARC (p. 25)

Once Upon a Time In a Forest 17:45 ARC (p. 32)

Evening 18:00

Opening Gala: Conclave 19:00 Everyman (see p. 10)

Parallax

Emerging Film Artist Exhibition

Lord Mayor’s Pavilion

9-30 NOV (see p. 43)

Brian Crotty Art Exhibition

St. Peter's Cork 11-16 Nov (p. 41)

Cork Film Trail

throughout Cork city

7-17 NOV (see p. 41)

Witches 19:00 Triskel (p. 31)

The Art of Time 20:15 ARC (p. 36)

This Life of Mine 20:15 ARC (p. 27)

Fréwaka 20:30 Everyman (p. 19)

Hard Truths 18:00 ARC (p. 24)

Irish Shorts 1: In Competition 18:00 ARC (p. 44)

Invention 18:30 Triskel (p. 28)

Irish Gala: Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Story 17:00 Everyman (p. 11)

Silent Men 17:30 Triskel (p. 31)

Simon of the Mountain 18:00 ARC (p. 31)

Trans Memoria 19:00 ARC (p. 29)

September Says 20:00 Everyman (p. 19)

Chasing the Light 20:30 Triskel (p. 18) Misericordia 20:15 ARC (p. 24)

Sad Jokes 17:15 Triskel (p. 29)

International Shorts 2 17:45 ARC (p. 46)

Brian Crotty Exhibition 15:00; 16:00; 17:00; 18:00 St. Peter's (p. 41)

EUNIC Short Shorts from Europe 18:00 ARC (p. 47)

Triumph 18:00 ARC (p. 30)

Welcome to Jail 19:45 Triskel (p. 33)

A Family 18:15 ARC (p. 28)

Neil Martin: Cumhacht an Chomhair 18:30 ARC (p. 21)

Withnail and I 20:30 Triskel (p. 35)

The Deposition 20:00 ARC (p. 37) The Girl with the Needle 20:45 ARC (p. 24)

Sisters 20:30 ARC (p. 26) We Live in Time 20:30 Everyman (p. 27) Hands in the Fire 20:30 ARC (p. 37) The Damned (Best New Irish Feature) 20:15 ARC (p. 19) Arcadia 21:00 ARC (p. 16)

The Visitor 21:30 Triskel (p. 35) Sex 20:30 ARC (p. 25) The Severed Sun 20:30 Triskel (p. 35) Loveable 20:30 ARC (p. 17) Silent Men 21:00 ARC (p. 31)

Toxic 20:45 ARC (p. 35) Olivia and the Clouds 21:00 ARC (p. 43) M/S 21:00 ARC (p. 21)

WED 13 THU 14 FRI 15

Intinn - Screening + Workshop 10:00 St. Peter's (p. 39)

Schools Screening 10:00 ARC Cinema, Gate Mallow & Midleton, Reel Cinema Ballincollig (p. 39)

Intinn - Screening + Workshop 10:00 St. Peter's (p. 39)

Schools Screening 10:00 ARC Cinema, Gate Mallow & Midleton, Reel Cinema Ballincollig (p. 39)

First Take Industry Day 11:30 Triskel (p. 48)

13:45 ARC

If I Fall Don't Pick Me Up 15:30 ARC (p. 20)

Schools Screening 10:00 ARC Cinema, Gate Mallow & Midleton, Reel Cinema Ballincollig (p. 39)

Look@Me Screening 10:30 St. Peter's (see p. 39)

Doc Day Live Industry Day 11:30 Triskel (p. 48)

Intinn - Screening + Workshop 11:40 St. Peter's (p. 39)

Donnie Darko 14:00 Everyman (p. 36)

Before Sunrise 14:00 Everyman (p. 36) Sex 14:30 ARC (p. 25)

Brían Crotty Exhibition 15:00; 16:00; 17:00; 18:00 St. Peter's (p. 41) Love Alone Can't Make a Child

Apple Cider Vinegar 16:00 ARC (p. 28) Arcadia 15:45 ARC (p. 16) Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958-1989 16:00 ARC (p. 29)

Junior Filmmaking Workshop 10:00 (p. 39)

Family Gala: Fox and Hare Save the Forest 11:00 Everyman (p. 38)

Senior Filmmaking Workshop 11:00 (see p. 35)

Savages 11:00 Everyman (p. 32)

Sisterhood & Sanctuary 12:00 St. Peter's (p. 40) aemi @ CIFF: Experimental Shorts 1 13:00 ARC (p. 42)

Super Cine Saturday: The Magic Reindeer - Saving Santa's Sleigh 12:00; Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Story 14:30; Misericordia 17:00 (See p. 50 for county venues) The Brutalist 14:00 Everyman (p. 22)

The Damned (Momentum) 14:00 ARC (p. 28) High Noon 14:00 ARC (p. 36)

The Stimming Pool 17:15 Triskel (p. 29) Under the Volcano 15:45 ARC (p. 17) Sons 17:00 Everyman (p. 26) The End 14:00 Everyman (p. 23) Family Friendly Shorts 14:30 ARC (p. 39)

Julie Keeps Quiet 17:30 ARC (p. 16) Mother Vera 17:00 ARC (p. 29) Dangerously Close 17:30 ARC (p. 23)

Rory Gallagher: Irish Tour '74 17:30 Everyman (p. 14)

Shahid 18:00 ARC (p. 29) Tasty 18:00 ARC (p. 33) The Story of Souleymane 18:15 ARC (p. 26)

The Zen Diary 18:00 ARC (p. 33) All Shall Be Well 18:15 ARC (p. 22)

Viêt and Nam 20:15 ARC (p. 30) The Village Next To Paradise 19:45 ARC (p. 17)

Documentary Gala: The Making of a Japanese 20:00 Everyman (p. 12)

When the Light Breaks (+ 'O') 20:00 ARC (p. 30)

Rabia 20:30 ARC (p. 17) All We Imagine as Light 20:30 ARC (p. 22) In His Own Image 20:15 ARC (p. 28)

The Keep 13:00 L’Atitude 51 (p. 33) aemi @ CIFF: Experimental Shorts 2 15:30 ARC (p. 42)

My Own Private Idaho 14:15 ARC (p. 34) All We Imagine As Light 16:00 ARC (p. 22)

The Art of Loss 15:30 Triskel (p. 20) Julie Keeps Quiet 16:00 ARC (p. 16)

Love Alone Can't Make a Child 16:15 ARC (p. 24)

The Imminent Age 17:00 ARC (p. 16)

September 5 17:00 ARC (p. 25)

The Keepers 17:30 Triskel (p. 21)

Once Upon a Time in a Forest 16:30 Triskel (p. 32)

Moon 18:45 ARC (p. 25) Rabia 18:15 ARC (p. 17)

The Belle from Gaza 19:00 ARC (p. 28) Ladies and Gentlemen: The Fabulous Stains 18:30 ARC (p. 34)

Awards Gala: Nightbitch 19:30 Everyman (p. 12) Lesson Learned 18:30 ARC (p. 17)

20:00 Triskel (p. 34) A Family 18:45 Triskel (p. 28) Irréversible 20:30 Triskel (p. 36) Cal, 20:30, Everyman (p. 14) Loveable 20:30 ARC (p. 17) A Traveler's Needs 20:30 ARC (p. 27) Closing Gala: Rumours 19:30 Everyman (p. 13)

Trans Memoria 21:00 ARC (p. 29) TWST – Things We Said Today 20:30 Triskel Cinema (p. 30) Serial Mom 20:30 Triskel (p. 34)

Radicals 20:45 ARC (p. 43) Triumph 20:30 ARC (p. 30) Invention 20:45 ARC (p. 28) Under the Volcano 21:00 ARC (p. 17) Online Selection 7-17 NOV (SEE P. 37)

Gloria! 15:00 ARC (p. 16) Sleep #2

(p. 42)

OPENING GALA CONCLAVE

Edward Berger | United Kingdom, United States | 2024 | 120 mins | Fiction

THU 7 | EVERYMAN | 19:00

The Pope has died and Cardinal Lawrence (a quietly commanding Ralph Fiennes) must lead the Conclave, one of the world's most secretive and ancient events, to select the new leader of the Catholic world. Surrounded by high-ranking cardinals, the hallowed hallways of the Vatican become the locked-down stage where this timely and tense papal thriller - that rivals anything a political election could conceive - plays out.

Adapted by Peter Straughan (‘Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy’) from Robert Harris’ best-selling novel and directed by

recent Oscar® winner Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front), the stellar cast, including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini and Ireland’s Brían F. O’Byrne (in attendance), delivers a heart-stopping thriller where deep secrets and factions are revealed that could shake the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church.

The ever-unwinding drama, amplified by stunningly sumptuous cinematography and a towering score maintains its surprise and intrigue right up to the finale.

IRISH GALA

BLUE ROAD: THE EDNA O’BRIEN STORY

Sinéad O’Shea | Ireland | 2024 | 100 min | Documentary

SUN 10 | EVERYMAN | 17:00

With the release of her revolutionary 1960 novel ‘The Country Girls’, Edna O’Brien sealed her fate as both a revered novelist and a feminist icon. Blue Road explores her life as a literary sensation and social radical.

Sinéad O’Shea’s thoughtful documentary weaves effectively O’Brien’s professional and personal triumphs and difficulties, in a portrait of an iconoclast who stood in resistance to the Irish conservative doctrine of the mid-20th century.

Featuring an insightful and affecting interview with Edna from just before her passing earlier this year, the film richly honours her legacy, as well as her profound passion and dedication to art.

Filmmaker Sinéad O’Shea will be in attendance

FOX AND HARE SAVE THE FOREST

Recommended Age: 4+

Strange things are happening in the forest! In the morning after Fox and Hare’s party with their friends, Owl has disappeared, mischievous Rats are terrorising the neighbourhood, and an overflowing lake is threatening homes. Could this be the work of a megalomaniac beaver, desperate to be admired by others?

Fox and Hare are determined to find out, rescue Owl and save their beloved forest! It will put their friendship to the test.

This highly entertaining and heartwarming adventure, enjoyable at all ages, truly has its heart in the right place: friendship and loyalty, solidarity, respect for differences, forgiveness and, last but not least, nature’s preservation.

This Gala will be introduced by Will Sliney (RTÉ Storytellers)

DOCUMENTARY GALA AWARDS GALA

THE MAKING OF A JAPANESE

FRI 15 | EVERYMAN | 20:00

What are the traits necessary to become part of Japanese society? Following the pupils of a public elementary school in Tokyo for a year, we observe a school system that might differ from other countries. Alongside studying, the children learn about self-discipline, community spirit and good manners. The fine balance between individualism and being respectful towards others is tested on a daily basis.

Japanese/British director Ema Ryan Yamazaki’s position as both an insider and outsider in Japan enables a fruitful combination of empathy and curiosity that viewers happily adopt for themselves. This immersion by Ema's side is incredibly eye-opening, and we share her understanding of how important childhood years are.

Director Ema Ryan Yamazaki and producer Eric Nyari will attend the Gala and also participate in Doc Day (see p.48)

NIGHTBITCH

Marielle Heller | United States | 2024 | 98 mins | Fiction

SAT 16 | EVERYMAN | 19:30

Amy Adams plays Mother, a former artist who has moved out of the city to a suburban home, where she stays with her toddler while her husband is away (a lot) for business. Routine defines her life now, from meal time to playground time to Baby Book Time, where she struggles to connect with other mums. Unable to keep her emotions bottled up inside much longer, Mother begins to see and hear things in the night. Something primal and feral rises up within her, allowing her to unleash her inner powers.

Director Marielle Heller (Can You Ever Forgive Me) gives all her attention to the women who can’t quite be content with the limited space society has in store for them. Her adaptation of Rachel Yoder’s 2021 bestselling novel Nightbitch is a wildly original exploration of motherhood and identity, somewhere between comedy, drama and dark fantasy.

This Gala screening will include the presentation of CIFF Features Awards.

CLOSING GALA RUMOURS

Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, Galen Johnson | Canada, Germany | 2024 | 108 mins | Fiction

SUN 17 | EVERYMAN | 19:30

In this exhilarating dark comedy, the seven leaders of the world's richest liberal democracies meet at their annual G7 summit, hosted by the German chancellor. They soon become spectacles of incompetence, contending with increasingly surreal obstacles as night falls in the misty woods and they realise they are alone. Is the end near? And if it is, could it be Canada's chance to prove itself as a leading nation? Its prime minister (a very funny Roy Dupuis) is certainly given all due attention by fellow citizen Evan Johnson, who wrote this daring satire and co-directed it with brother Galen Johnson and free spirit hero Guy Maddin.

It is a testament to the creative trio's sagacity that every spectator whose nationality is represented in Rumours seems to leave it with the feeling that they were faithfully represented by their fictional leader. Indeed, despite the French president being reliably full of himself (Denis Ménochet is immense) and Cate Blanchett’s hilarious turn in Merkel-like pink blazer and smooth bob-cut, the portraits never give in to gross caricature. Imagination may take the filmmakers into wild territories, but always on the grounds of a sharp understanding of global geopolitics and subtle cultural differences. All hail Canada!

This Gala screening will include the presentation of the CIFF Lookout and Audience Awards.

SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS

50TH ANNIVERSARY SCREENING

RORY GALLAGHER: IRISH TOUR ‘74

Tony Palmer | Ireland | 1974 | 84 mins | Documentary

THU 14 | EVERYMAN | 17:30

The rock and popular music documentary film was still in its infancy at the time, but having made such landmark and groundbreaking music portraits as Frank Zappa’s 200 Motels, British filmmaker Tony Palmer was perfectly placed to bring something fresh and timeless to the nascent form.

There may have been turmoil on the island at the timeNorthern Ireland was dropped from the touring itineraries of international musicians due to the raging conflict - but Irish Tour ‘74 captures an odd sense of peace, which is embodied by Ireland's first rock star at his brilliant best, live on stage in his home country. Whether it is through bringing unity to Belfast music lovers or lost to his musical muse, his thoughts a million miles away.

Courtesy of Universal Music

Post-screening Q&A with Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and manager

40TH ANNIVERSARY

Pat O’Connor | Ireland, United Kingdom | 1984 | 102

THU 14 | EVERYMAN | 20:30

Cal McCluskey, a young man on the fringes of the Republican army, falls in love with a recently widowed local librarian, Marcella, who is unaware of the dark secret which has Cal wracked with guilt.

Featuring the onscreen debut of John Lynch in the titular role, with Helen Mirren giving a performance which landed her a Best Actress award at the 1984 Cannes Film Festival, catapulting her career to the next level, Pat O’Connor’s film, produced by our Festival Patron, David Puttnam, is considered one of the finest portrayals of life in Northern Ireland amidst the sectarian violence of the times, and we are delighted to present the film in a brand new restoration to mark its

Photo: Eric Luke

FEATURES AWARDS

This year, we are delighted to present our inaugural Honorary Disruptor Award to film director Bruce Robinson at a special screening of his classic Withnail & I on Tuesday, 12 November (20:30, Triskel - see p. 35).

BEST NEW IRISH FEATURE

Proudly supported by the Irish Examiner. Winner to be announced at the Awards Gala, Sat 16 November

Jurors:

• Emma Boa, Programmer, Edinburgh International Film Festival

• Áine Moriarty, Chief Executive, Irish Film & Television Academy

• Hilary Rose, Actor

GRADAM SPIORAD NA FÉILE: BEST FILM & BEST SCREENPLAY (TWO AWARDS)

(SPIRIT OF THE FESTIVAL)

Winners to be announced at the Awards Gala, Sat 16 November.

Jurors:

• Charlotte Serrand, Director, La Roche sur Yon International Film Festival

• Conor Barry, Producer, Savage Productions/Wild Atlantic Pictures

• Victor Iriarte, Programmer, San Sebastian Film Festival

GRADAM NA FÉILE DO SCANNÁIN FAISNÉISE

(AWARD FOR BEST DOCUMENTARY)

Winner to be announced at the Awards Gala, Sat 16 November.

Jurors:

• Mads Mikkelsen, Programmer, CPH:DOX

• Heather Millard, Producer, Compass Films

• Christopher Small, Head of Publications, Locarno Film Festival

LOOKOUT AWARD

Winner to be announced on at the Closing Gala Sun 17 November.

Chosen by our youth jury comprising students from UCC, MTU and St. John’s Central College.

AUDIENCE AWARD (FEATURES)

Chosen by you, the audience, by voting online. All Festival features that have their Irish premiere in cinema are eligible for the award. Winner to be announced on Sun 17 November.

CORkCRYSTaL

Our awards are designed and created by our Trophy Partner.

For Shorts Awards see P.44

SPIRIT OF THE FESTIVAL

Bringing to you the best of new European cinema. These filmmakers wowed us with their first or second feature film and will compete for the Best Film and Best Screenplay awards.

ARCADIA

Katerina, a neurologist, and her husband Yannis, a former well-respected doctor, head off to a deserted seaside resort. Yannis has been called by the small town’s hospital to identify the victim of a tragic accident. A genre-twisting mix of supernatural erotic thriller and cathartic psychological drama.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00 THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 15:45

THE IMMINENT AGE (L’EDAT IMMINENT)

Clara Serrano Llorens, Gerald Simó Gimeno, Vigília

Collective | Spain | 2024 | 80 mins | Fiction

Bruno's (18) life is increasingly limited by the growing dependence of his grandmother Natividad (86), the only family he has ever known. When the opportunity to take her to a nursing home arises, both will have to deal with a decision they had not allowed themselves to consider before.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 17:00

GLORIA!

1800: In a convent school for girls near Venice lives a silent and solitary maid tasked with the humblest of chores. No one knows that her name is Teresa. No one suspects that she possesses an extraordinary talent that enables her to reshape the reality of a rigid system through music.

FRI 8 | EVERYMAN | 17:30 WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 15:00

JULIE KEEPS QUIET (JULIE ZWIJGT)

As the star player at an elite tennis academy, Julie’s life revolves around the game she loves. When her coach falls under investigation and is suddenly suspended, all of the club’s players are encouraged to speak up. But Julie decides to keep quiet.

Shortlisted for the 2025 LUX Audience Award.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 17:30 SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

LESSON LEARNED (FEKETE PONT)

Juci, 33, is a young teacher trying to challenge outdated approaches at a time of crisis in the Hungarian education system. Her student, ten-yearold Palkó, has recently relocated from Berlin and is finding it hard to adapt. Szimler’s insightful filmmaking makes these personal stories terribly universal.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 17:30 SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 18:30

RABIA

Driven by the promise of a new life of comfort and respect, two young Frenchwomen set off for Syria. But when they arrive in Raqqa, they find themselves prisoners of a house for the future wives of ISIS fighters, run by the inscrutable and iron-fisted Madame. Based on true events.

Filmmaker in attendance.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30 SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 18:15

LOVEABLE (ELSKLING)

Maria juggles four children and a demanding career while her husband Sigmund travels all the time. One day they get into an ugly argument which leads Sigmund to ask her for a divorce. A sharp and poignant drama, winner of multiple awards upon its world premiere in Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30 FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30

UNDER THE VOLCANO (POD WULKANEM)

A Ukrainian family is spending the last day of their holiday on the island of Tenerife, Spain. Once at the airport, their flight is cancelled: Russia has invaded Ukraine. Trapped on the island, the tourists become refugees. A striking example of cinema’s capacity to articulate the intimate impact of global events.

THE VILLAGE NEXT TO PARADISE

In a windy Somali village, a newly assembled family must navigate between their different aspirations and the complex world surrounding them. Multi-awarded filmmaker Mo Harawe will attend and share the secrets of how this magnificent tale of love and resilience came to life.

Filmmaker in attendance.

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 15:45 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00 THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 19:45

BEST NEW IRISH FEATURE

Rooted in Ireland, facing the world. These ambitious and wildly different films represent the quality and diversity of Irish filmmaking this year, whether fully Irish in story and production or in harmonious joint efforts with filmmaking talents from other countries. The Best New Irish Film Award is proudly sponsored by the Irish Examiner.

from the world. When a conflict with rival farmer Gary (Paul Ready) and his son Jack (Barry Keoghan) escalates, Michael is drawn into a devastating chain of events.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 9 | EVERYMAN | 17:15

BLUE ROAD: THE EDNA O’BRIEN STORY

Sinéad O’Shea | Ireland | 2024 | 100 mins | Documentary

Filmmaker in attendance.

SUN 10 | EVERYMAN | 17:00

CHASING THE LIGHT

Maurice O’Brien | Ireland | 2024 | 85 mins | Documentary

Dzogchen Beara is Ireland’s best-known spiritual retreat centre, built on a remote clifftop.

For its Buddhist community, drawn from all over the world, it quickly becomes clear that the road to enlightenment contains many challenges. They will have to pull together, or fall apart.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 9 | TRISKEL | 20:30

FRÉWAKA

Aislinn Clarke | Ireland | 2024 | 103 mins | Fiction

Shoo is sent to a remote village to care for an agoraphobic woman who fears sinister entities, the Na Sídhe. As they develop a connection, Shoo is consumed by the old woman’s paranoia, rituals, and superstitions, eventually confronting the horrors of her past.

Director Aislinn Clarke will participate in our Industry Days (see p. 48 or corkfilmfest.org)

Filmmaker in attendance.

FRI 8 | EVERYMAN | 20:30

THE DAMNED

Thordur Palsson | United Kingdom, Ireland, Iceland | 2024 | 89 mins | Fiction

Young widow Eva is tasked with making an impossible choice when, in the middle of an especially cruel winter, a ship sinks off the coast of her isolated fishing post. Eva and her crew must choose to either rescue the shipwrecked or let them perish to ensure their own survival.

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 20:15

SEPTEMBER SAYS

Ariane Labed | Ireland, Germany | 2024 | 100 mins | Fiction

When September is suspended from her school, her sister July begins to assert her own independence. Their mother takes them to an old holiday home in Ireland, but instead of the peace she hoped for, tension in the family builds as a series of surreal encounters test them all to their limit.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SUN 10 | EVERYMAN | 20:00

IRISH VOICES

From intimate reflections to geopolitical analysis, these filmmakers come to us both very much as Irish people fully aware of a common heritage, and as responsible citizens of the world.

IF I FALL DON’T PICK ME UP

Declan Clarke | Ireland | 2024 | 116 mins | Documentary

THE ART OF LOSS

Carmel Winters | Ireland | 2024 | 27 mins | Documentary

The Art of Loss is a rich and textured personal essay, which reflects on ageing and bereavement, and gives an intriguing insight into a creative mind’s process of mourning.

Director Carmel Winters will participate in a post-screening discussion about the themes of The Art of Loss with filmmaker Ken Wardrop.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 16 | TRISKEL | 15:30

THE IRISH LUMIÈRES - THE HORGAN BROTHERS

Darina Clancy | Ireland | 2024 | 53 mins | Documentary

The Nobel Prize-winning author Samuel Beckett was popularly perceived as an aloof and austere figure who jealously guarded his privacy. Declan Clarke's film charts his long-running collaboration with a young German theatre director Walter Asmus. One that develops almost imperceptibly over time from tentative beginnings on a 1974 production of ‘Waiting for Godot’ before becoming a trusted and valued friendship. Between archives and relics, fidelity and disappearance, the story of a relationship unfolds. Filmmaker in attendance.

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 17:15

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30

Featuring dramatic reconstructions and a treasure trove of archive footage and images, The Irish Lumières - The Horgan Brothers is an affectionate and lovingly-made tribute to Youghal brothers James, Thomas and Philip Horgan, bringing to life the times and the innovations of these Irish film and cinema pioneers. This screening will be followed by a panel discussion.

Screening with KING OF SPADES - LOOKING BACK (Colm Scully | Ireland | 2024 | 37 mins | Documentary ) Filmmaker in attendance.

TUE 12 | TRISKEL | 17:30

THE KEEPERS

Eoin McGowan | Ireland | 2024 | 65 mins | Documentary

A beautiful portrait of bees, beekeeping and beekeepers, told largely from the perspective of the De Ruiter family, who left the Netherlands for West Cork 25 years ago, making their home on the Beara Peninsula where they practise the art and science of apiary. Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 16 | TRISKEL | 17:30

NEIL MARTIN: CUMHACHT AN CHOMHAIR

Approaching 65 – retirement age for most – how will musician and composer Neil Martin use a year of collaboration to propel himself into a new phase as an artist? This film follows Neil through grief, celebration and new ambitions to ask whether the work of being an artist ever feels finished. Filmmaker in attendance.

M/S

Eóin Heaney | Ireland | 2024 | 50 mins | Documentary

M/S explores the representation of illness and the radical possibilities of love, care and dying on your own terms. This superb film draws on the filmmaker’s 17 years of experience as primary carer for his mother, Susan Heaney, who suffers from multiple sclerosis. The project is co-authored with Susan. Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00

TRUMPETS

Yvonne McDevitt | Ireland | 2024 | 120 mins | Fiction

After travelling to Italy on the anniversary of her son's death, Magda - a Polish immigrant to Ireland - returns to Donegal, where she has a life-changing encounter with a refugee, newly arrived from Rwanda.

Special preview screening in advance of its Dublin Premiere at the IFI. An Arts Council of Ireland 'Authored Works' feature film by kind permission of its exhibition partner, the IFI. Filmmaker in attendance.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 18:30

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

WORLD TOUR

The universal appeal of these films is irresistible. Whether they are newcomers or household names, these filmmakers are in full control of their artform's superpowers.

ALL SHALL BE WELL (CONG JIN YIHOU)

Angie and Pat have been a couple for decades, enjoying a fun social life with both friends and family. But Pat’s unexpected death leaves Angie struggling to retain the home they had shared and her own dignity. A gentle film exploring the issues facing same-sex couples in Hong Kong from director Ray Yeung.

ALL WE IMAGINE AS LIGHT

Three women of different ages in today’s Mumbai trying to find happiness, or at least peace. When the eldest takes them on a trip to her birth village by the sea, they find a space for their desires to manifest. The first Indian film to win the prestigious Grand Prix at Cannes Film Festival.

BIRD

Andrea Arnold | United Kingdom | 2024 | 119 mins | Fiction

Bailey lives with her brother Hunter and her father Bug (Barry Keoghan), who raises them alone in a squat in the North of Kent. Bug doesn't have much time to devote to them, so Bailey looks for attention and adventure elsewhere. She meets a strange man who calls himself Bird.

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 18:15 FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 14:30

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30 SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00 SUN 17 | EVERYMAN | 14:00

THE BRUTALIST

Brady Corbet | United States | 2024 | 215 mins | Fiction

When visionary architect László Toth (Adrien Brody) and his wife Erzsébet flee (Felicity Jones) post-war Europe in 1947 to rebuild their legacy and witness the birth of modern America, their lives are changed forever by a mysterious and wealthy client. Brady Corbet won the Best Director award at the Venice Film Festival.

DANGEROUSLY CLOSE

Europe’s largest bear rewilding project was successful in resettling brown bears in the Italian Alps. While most locals supported the project in the beginning, fear and anger prevail after a series of attacks on humans. Can humans and bears, the continent’s two main species of predators, coexist?

FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 17:30

DOG ON TRIAL (LE PROCÈS DU CHIEN)

April, an idealistic lawyer dedicated to lost causes, agrees to defend Cosmos, a dog that has bitten three people, leading to the first canine trial. She has no choice but to win the case, as otherwise, her unusual client will be put down.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 14:00

THE FABLE

Raam Reddy | India, United States | 2024 | 119 mins | Fiction

Spring 1989. High up in the Indian Himalayas, the soft-spoken Dev owns a sprawling estate of several orchards, where workers diligently spray pesticides on the fruit. One day, he discovers a single burnt apple tree. A few days later, more trees are burnt. Suspicion begins to spread its wings.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 14:30 MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 13:15

THE END

Joshua Oppenheimer | Denmark, Germany, Ireland | 2024 | 148 mins | Fiction

In this heart-wrenching post-apocalyptic musical, the last family on earth have survived in a luxury bunker for years.

Their carefully choreographed life is disrupted when a young woman appears out of nowhere, exhausted. The stranger comes with something deadlier than all viruses: an intense sense of guilt.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 16 | EVERYMAN | 14:00

THE GIRL WITH THE NEEDLE (PIGEN MED NÅLEN)

Denmark, post-WWI. On losing her sewing factory position, Karoline (Victoria Carmen Sonne) gains employment as a wet nurse for Dagmar (Trine Dryholm), who runs an illegal adoption agency from the back of her sweet shop. But a disturbing discovery upends Karoline’s new-found stability. A shocking thriller based on true events.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 20:45

LOVE ALONE CAN’T MAKE A CHILD (DER WUNSCH)

Like many couples, Maria and Christiane share a dream of having a child of their own. But physical limitations, medical issues and a discriminatory system that raises legal matters make this a far more challenging undertaking. Filmed over ten years, an exceptional portrait of love and endurance.

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 14:45 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 16:15

HARD TRUTHS

Mike Leigh | United Kingdom | 2024 | 97 mins | Fiction

Mike Leigh reunites with Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Secrets & Lies) to examine the life of a cynic as she complains through her daily life. While quite funny on the surface, her endless distaste with life starts to suggest something bigger at play. An unrelenting look at modern family life.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00

MISERICORDIA (MISERICORDE)

Jérémie returns to his hometown for the funeral of his former boss, the village baker. He loved the man. And the baker's widow knows it. A mysterious disappearance, a threatening neighbour and a priest with strange intentions make his stay take an unexpected turn... The glorious dark comedy that rocked the Cannes Film Festival.

Also screening as part of our county-wide Super Cine Saturday (see p. 50)

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 20:15

MOON (MOND)

Sarah, a former MMA cage fighter, accepts a job training three sisters from a wealthy family in the Middle East. But it isn't long until Sarah starts to question why she is even there. Kurdwin Ayub's second feature is a slow-burning thriller which won the Special Jury prize at this year’s Locarno Film Festival.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 18:45

SEX

Two chimney sweepers living in monogamous, heterosexual marriages both end up in situations that challenge their views on sexuality and gender roles. An incredibly bold deconstruction of masculinity, Sex intrigues, impresses, captivates: it’s the sensational product of both brave and masterful writing, acting and directing.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30 FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 14:30

SEPTEMBER 5

Tim Fehlbaum | Germany | 2024 | 94 mins | Fiction

Set during the 1972 Munich Olympics, the film follows an American Sports broadcasting team that quickly adapted from sports reporting to live coverage of the Israeli athletes taken hostage. Through this lens, "September 5" provides a fresh perspective on the live broadcast seen globally by an estimated one billion people.

SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 17:00

SHAMBHALA

In the Nepalese Himalayas, the spirited Pema embraces a polyandrous marriage with Tashi and his two younger brothers. When Tashi fails to return from a trip and the legitimacy of her unborn child is questioned, Pema embarks on a quest to find Tashi. A magnificent tale of female determination.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 16:30

SISTERS (MANAS)

In the depths of the Amazon rainforest, 13-year-old Tielle grows up with dreams inspired by her older sister’s escape. But her illusions begin to crumble, revealing a world of deep-rooted exploitation and abuse. A poignant exploration of resilience and resistance, Sisters won the Venice Days director’s award.

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30

THE STORY OF SOULEYMANE (L'HISTOIRE DE SOULEYMANE)

As he pedals through the streets of Paris to deliver meals, Souleymane repeats his story. In two days, he has to go through his asylum application interview. But Souleymane is not ready. An audience favourite that is at the same time a real-life inspired heart-wrenching drama and a thriller!

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 17:45 FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 18:15

SONS (VOGTER)

Eva, a prison officer, is faced with a stark dilemma when a young man from her past gets transferred to the prison where she works. Eva asks to be moved to his ward – the toughest and most violent in the prison. An unsettling psychological thriller, with the great Sidse Babett Knudsen (Borgen).

FRI 15 | EVERYMAN | 17:00

THIS LIFE OF MINE (MA VIE MA GUEULE)

Barbie was once an attractive woman, a devoted mother and partner. But she faces newfound challenges as she turns 55 and she grapples with her identity, relationships and life’s absurdities. Agnes Jaoui is late director Sophie Fillières' alter ego in this funny and touching portrait of female midlife crisis.

In partnership with the French Embassy in Ireland and Alliance Française

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 20:15

A TRAVELER’S NEEDS (YEOHAENGJAUI PILYO)

One of Hong Sang Soo’s most outwardly funny films, A Traveler’s Needs features a mysterious French woman played by screen queen Isabelle Huppert. To make ends meet, she begins to give unconventional French classes to two Korean women. The winner of Berlinale’s Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize.

SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30

WE LIVE IN TIME

John Crowley | United States | 2024 | 107 mins | Fiction

The surprise first encounter between Almut, an up-and-coming chef (Florence Pugh), and Tobias, a recent divorcée (Andrew Garfield), is quite literally, a car crash. The unconventional route of their love story is revealed over a decade of time-hopping snapshots - flirting and falling for each other, becoming a family, and facing a devastating diagnosis that rocks their foundation. Skillfully directed by Cork’s own John Crowley (Brooklyn), Pugh and Garfield bring incredible chemistry, creating a fresh, funny and deeply moving romance that is a meaningful reminder of how precious it is to live in the moment and love fully in the time that we have.

Director John Crowley will introduce the film, and also participate in an ‘In Conversation’ career interview on Sunday 10 Nov, 11.45, Triskel.

SAT 9 | EVERYMAN | 20:30

MOMENTUM

A cinema in motion - looking forward, around, and deep inside. These filmmakers display awe-inspiring liberty and invite you to embark with them on a transformative odyssey.

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

In this captivating essay film, a retired nature narrator's kidney stone sparks an exploration of the stone world, tackling urgent ecological questions. Rich in encounters, her journey between the minuscule and the immense introduces Palestinian quarry workers, a dedicated British geologist, and Fogo's lava field residents.

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 15:00

THE BELLE FROM GAZA (LA BELLE DE GAZA)

Upon hearing of a young woman said to have travelled on foot from Gaza to Tel Aviv to save her life, Yolande Zaubermann’s investigation leads her to meet several transgender women. Their perilous journey between these worlds offers insight into their struggle for selfaffirmation amid conflict and oppression.

THE DAMNED

Roberto Minervini | Italy, United States, Belgium | 2024 | 89 mins | Fiction

Winter 1862. In the midst of the Civil War, the US Army sends a company of volunteer soldiers to the western territories, with the task of patrolling the uncharted borderlands. As their mission ultimately changes course, the meaning behind their engagement begins to elude them.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 14:00

FRI 8 | TRISKEL | 14:30 SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 19:00

A FAMILY (UNE FAMILLE)

Award-winning French writer Christine Angot visits Strasbourg where her nowdeceased father lived. She first met him at the age of 13, and he sexually abused her over the following years. Christine knocks on the doors of her family, hoping for clarity about their attitudes to her father's crime.

IN HIS OWN IMAGE (À SON IMAGE)

Fragments of the life of Antonia, a young photographer for a local newspaper in Corsica. Her commitment, her friends, and her loves intertwine with the island’s history of separatist violence, from the 1980s to the dawn of the 21st century. It is the fresco of a generation.

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 18:15 SUN 17 | TRISKEL | 18:45 FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 20:15

INVENTION

Courtney Stephens | United States | 2024 | 72 mins | Fiction

In the aftermath of a conspiracy-minded man’s death, his daughter inherits his patent for an experimental healing device. Featuring archives from Callie Hernandez's late father, this truly original hybrid film, tender and often amusing, explores the process of grieving a complicated parent. Awarded for best performance at Locarno International Film Festival.

SAT 9 | TRISKEL | 18:30 THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 20:45

ISRAEL PALESTINE ON SWEDISH TV 1958-1989

Göran Hugo Olsson’s new masterwork comprises unique and visually striking footage from perhaps the most comprehensive archive in the world depicting both sides of the Israel-Palestine conflict: the Swedish Television archives. Challenging and changing the conventions of how history is written, it’s a 202-minute-long must-see.

FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

SHAHID

Iranian filmmaker Narges Kalhor wants to remove ‘Shahid’ from her surname. Passed down from a great-grandparent, the name means ‘martyr’. There are obstacles at every turn: she is haunted by her great-grandfather, the German bureaucracy is impossible, and her actors revolt. An exuberant and highly unconventional political comedy.

MOTHER VERA

In a hidden Orthodox monastery in Belarus, Mother Vera weaves the inner world of an unorthodox young nun with the community that saved her life. After 20 years as a monastic, Vera faces deep inner conflict. Now, she must confront her past and trust her instincts to find the liberation she desires.

Filmmaker in attendance.

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 17:00

THE STIMMING POOL

The Neurocultures

Collective, Steven Eastwood | United Kingdom | 2024 | 70 mins | Documentary

Co-created by neurodivergent directors and artist-filmmaker

Steven Eastwood, The Stimming Pool follows diverse characters navigating environments through an autistic lens, striving to find space in a world free from societal norms. Filmmaker in attendance.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00 WED 13 | TRISKEL | 17:15

SAD JOKES

Fabian Stumm | Germany | 2024 | 95 mins | Fiction

Joseph and Sonya are close friends who are raising a young son together. When Sonya checks herself into a clinic to recover from depression, Joseph is forced to juggle parenting, romantic possibilities and artistic ambitions. Wonderful performances illuminate this unusual ode to the beautiful complexity of life.

MON 11 | TRISKEL | 17:15

TRANS MEMORIA

Pluridisciplinary artist Victoria Verseau returns to Thailand where, in 2012, she underwent gender confirmation surgery. She documents her journey through an intimate, tell-all diary, navigating uncertainty amplified by a friend’s passing. Trans Memoria is a beautiful and eye-opening story about transitioning and what comes after.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 19:00 WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00

TRIUMPH

1990s Bulgaria. A high-ranking military task force launches a top-secret mission to unearth a mystical artefact which could change the course of humanity. But it soon transpires that what they search for may be very different to what they unearth. Surreal, satirical fun, and very possibly a true story!

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00 SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 20:30

VIÊT AND NAM (TRONG LÒNG ĐÀT)

Viet and Nam love each other. Both are miners, working 1000 meters below ground where darkness prevails. One day, Nam decides to leave the country via an agent who smuggles people in shipping containers.

A stunning debut feature whose images stay with us long after the screening.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 20:15

TWST - THINGS WE SAID TODAY

Taking its title from The Beatles song of the same name, and using the Fab Four’s arrival for their 1965 Shea Stadium concert as a launchpad, TWST takes this moment to harness a snapshot of the America of the time, a collage of captured reality and ethereal memory from the Watts Riots to the World’s Fair.

THU 14 | TRISKEL | 20:30

WHEN THE LIGHT BREAKS (LJÓSBROT)

In this beautiful, intensely felt film, Una, a young art student, encounters love, friendship, sorrow and beauty in a single Summer day, from dawn to dusk. Icelandic director Rúnar Rúnarsson poignantly dramatizes the strangeness of a day when someone you love dies.

This screening will be preceded by Rúnarsson's short film O (2024, 19 mins)

FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 20:00

UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE (UNE LANGUE UNIVERSELLE)

An introverted man leaves Montreal to return to his native Winnipeg in order to visit his ailing mother. Time and space seem to be turned upside down in this deadpan comedy: Farsi is the official language of the isolated Canadian city, and everybody speaks it. Was it perhaps always so?

SAT 9 | TRISKEL | 13:30 TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

WINDLESS (BEZVETRIJE)

Kaloyan returns home to handle the sale of his late father’s apartment. What starts as a routine task soon becomes a journey of self-discovery and a reflection on the passage of time. The film’s charismatic lead performance, profound thinking and stunning cinematography make Windless an indelible viewing experience.

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30 MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

ILLUMINATE

A tentpole programme at CIFF, Illuminate focuses on the intersection of film and mental health. Invited professionals, service users and filmmakers engage in dialogue around the films’ themes.

AT AVERROÈS & ROSA PARKS

The follow-up to Nicolas Philibert’s film Sur l’Adamant, winner of the Golden Bear at the 2023 Berlinale, At Averroès and Rosa Parks is an immersion in two psychiatric units in Paris. Because it’s about human complexity, it is many things in turns: beautiful, profound, touching, astonishing, hilarious. Always interesting.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 14:15

SIMON OF THE MOUNTAIN (SIMÓN DE LA MONTAÑA)

Simón, a lonely boy, joins a group of disabled young people on a pilgrimage. They immediately accept the non-disabled Simón into their ranks. One of his new friends, Pehuen, suggests that he should apply for an official disability card. For this, Simón must undergo a psychiatric assessment by the authorities.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00

SILENT MEN

Duncan Cowles | United Kingdom | 2024 | 88 mins | Documentary

Part therapy, part road trip, a deadpan filmmaker asks men how they show their emotions, to help him confront his own struggles with opening up to loved ones.

PANEL DISCUSSION: A panel discussion will follow the screening on Sunday, 10 November, with filmmaker Duncan Cowles and guests.

SUN 10 | TRISKEL | 17:30 TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00

WITCHES

Elizabeth Sankey | United Kingdom | 2024 | 90 mins | Fiction

Director Elizabeth Sankey explores the connections between postpartum mental health and the portrayal of witches in Western society and popular culture. Sankey intertwines her personal experiences with historical and cinematic footage - while creating a new coven of women to reclaim their stories. Relevant and deeply moving.

FRI 8 | TRISKEL | 19:00

GREEN SCREEN

Four must-see films that highlight, each in its own way, urgent issues related to climate change and the environment, and promote actions to make positive changes in our communities.

Green Screen is sponsored by Future Planet through our award-winning Sustainability Partnership.

PETRA KELLY - ACT NOW!

Petra Kelly was one of the most influential political personalities of the 20th century, a figurehead of the peace movement and co-founder of the first green party to find success. In this life incredibly packed with achievements and that ended in tragedy, Ireland occupied a special place.

PANEL DISCUSSION: A panel discussion will take place following the screening. See corkfilmfest.org for details.

SUN 10 | TRISKEL | 14:00

SAVAGES (SAUVAGES)

JUST ABOVE THE SURFACE OF THE EARTH

Marianna Milhorat | Canada, United States | 2024 | 69 mins | Documentary

A poetic portrait of contemporary wildlife conservation, Just Above the Surface of The Earth reflects on empathy, agency, and the role of hope in the midst of a sixth mass extinction.

In Borneo, at the edge of the tropical forest, Kéria is given a baby orangutan that has been rescued from the oil palm plantation where her father works. This new masterpiece for all ages, from animation great Claude Barras, is a moving and hopeful tale about ecosystem preservation. FRI 8 | TRISKEL | 16:30

SUN 17 | EVERYMAN | 11:00

ONCE UPON A TIME IN A FOREST (HAVUMETSÄN LAPSET)

In this documenta ry that unfolds as a modern fairy tale set in the enchanting embrace of the Finnish landscape, we meet the young members of a forest defense movement. Aware of being integral components of nature, these true superheroes of our times will not give up this most vital fight.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 17:45 SUN 17 | TRISKEL | 16:30

CULINARY CINEMA

From a prison-based restaurant in Italy to Japanese slow food as a zen way of life to a Lithuanian TV cooking competition and our very own West Cork smokery, feast your eyes on our Culinary Cinema strand (visit corkfilmfest.org for details of our culinary event packages).

THE KEEP

Federico Conti | Italy | 2024 | 17 mins | Documentary

Sally Barnes is the last person in Ireland to smoke exclusively wild fish. Overwhelmed by the consequences of climate change and intensive fishing, her inestimable know-how is in danger of disappearing forever. This documentary short takes us behind the scenes of Woodcock Smokery, West Cork, revealing Sally’s skill and passion for a traditional culinary art.

EVENT: Join Sally Barnes of Woodcock Smokery & Aishling Moore (Goldie), who will present a selection of fish appetisers prepared by Aishling, with wine from L'Atitude 51

SAT 16 | L'ATITUDE 51 | 13:00

WELCOME TO JAIL (BENVENUTI IN GALERA)

‘In Galera’ is the world’s first restaurant opened inside a prison. The inmates who work in the dining room and in the kitchen develop new skills preparing delicious Italian dishes. Something else develops in the process: the possibility of another future.

EVENT: Discussion with Liam Spacey and Karen C. Whelan, Cork Prison; JJ Healy, MTU/The Open Door; and William O’Brien, Rose Hotel, Tralee. Hosted by food writer and journalist Joe McNamee.

MON 11 | TRISKEL | 19:45

TASTY (GARDUTÉ)

Two best friends, who work in a local canteen ‘Tasty’ enter a national competition which will challenge not only their cooking skills but their friendship as well. This endearing tragicomedy will be followed by a themed culinary event.

EVENT: Experience the flavours of Eastern Europe at our playfully tasty supper event at L’Atitude 51.

THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00

THE ZEN DIARY (TSUCHI O KURAU JÛNIKA GETSU)

Tsumotu is a writer living alone in a cabin in the mountains. He grows fruit and vegetables, forages for mushrooms, and he cooks seasonal dishes, learned from a Zen monastery, with his editor and girlfriend whenever she visits. A beautiful and contemplative film which ponders on what is important in life.

EVENT: A Zen-themed evening to remember at Ichigo Ichie, dining on traditional Japanese dishes inspired by the film.

WED 13 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00

DISRUPTORS

Maverick filmmakers of cinema's past and present. Disruption comes in many forms, but one thing is sure: demands to conform are not welcome here.

FOTOGENICO

Seeking closure over the death of his daughter Agnès, Raoul arrives in Marseille, where she lived. She had told him of names and places, but nothing matches. The only thing that feels real is the album she recorded. Eros and Thanatos equally rule over this wildly energising film.

Celebrate the closing week-end of CIFF in music with Fotogenico director Benoit Sabatier and actor Christophe Paou after the film at the Festival Club.

SAT 16 | TRISKEL | 20:00

MY OWN PRIVATE IDAHO

Gus Van Sant | United States | 1991 | 104 mins | Fiction

Two young street hustlers, the sensitive, narcoleptic Mike, and rebellious politician’s son Scott, take a voyage of discovery in Gus Van Sant’s Shakespearean 1990s road movie, which gifts us with sublime performances from the era’s two biggest heartthrobs - the wonderful Keanu Reeves, and supreme young talent River Phoenix, who tragically passed away in 1993.

SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 14:15

LADIES & GENTLEMEN: THE FABULOUS STAINS

Lou Adler | United States | 1982 | 87 mins | Fiction

An angry and disenfranchised teenager (played with delicious disdain by Diane Lane) forms a band with her sister and cousin (Laura Dern), pisses off the bands they are touring with on the male-dominated music circuit, and unwittingly becomes a role model for a huge female fanbase in this underground new wave classic.

Introduced by Benoit Sabatier, director of Fotogenico.

SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 18:30

SERIAL MOM

John Waters | United States | 1994 | 95 mins | Fiction

Picture-perfect mom Beverly Sutphin (played with glorious gusto by Kathleen Turner) will stop at nothing to prevent any disruptions to her daily suburban life, even if it means leaving a trail of bodies in her well-recycled wake. A hilarious and prescient satirical look at serial killer fandom from ‘King of Trash’ John Waters.

FRI 15 | TRISKEL | 20:30

THE SEVERED SUN

Dean Puckett | United Kingdom | 2024 | 82 mins | Fiction

Magpie shocks her isolated religious community by murdering her abusive husband, awakening a dark, malevolent and ancient force in the forest which sends fear and paranoia throughout the devout flock as it craves the blood of wrongdoers. This debut feature from writerdirector Dean Puckett exudes folk horror to its very core. Filmmaker in attendance.

SUN 10 | TRISKEL | 20:30

THE VISITOR

Bruce LaBruce | United Kingdom | 2024 | 101 mins | Fiction

A refugee emerges naked from a suitcase washed up on the banks of the Thames. Disguised as a homeless man, he is employed by a white upper-class family, and proceeds to seduce each member of the household in this subversive, sexual, and explicitly graphic film from queer cinema’s master disruptor, Bruce LaBruce.

TOXIC

Two young teens form an unlikely friendship whilst looking to escape their industrial surroundings by enrolling in a modelling academy, and putting their bodies through hell in the process. Writer-director Saulė Bliuvaitė's unflinching debut puts her firmly in disruptor territory, and won the Golden Leopard at this year's Locarno Film Festival.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 20:45 FRI 15 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30

WITHNAIL & I

Bruce Robinson | United Kingdom | 1987 | 107 mins | Fiction

Two out-of-work actors, Withnail and his flatmate ‘I’ (career defining performances from Richard E. Grant and Paul McGann respectively) escape late-sixties London for a delightful weekend in the country in what is widely regarded as the finest British cult film in all humanity.

Director Bruce Robinson will be presented with our inaugural Honorary Disruptor Award by Paul McGann as part of this screening.

8 | TRISKEL | 21:30

TUE 12 | TRISKEL | 20:30

THE RELATIVITY OF TIME

RETROSPECTIVE

One of the many ‘superpowers’ of movies is that they can bend time. We invite you to join us in our celebration of the cinematic world of seconds, minutes, hours and even centuries, so that we may all share time enjoying these cinema classics on the big screen. Guest curated by Anna Kopecká.

THE ART OF TIME

Fergus Daly, Katherine Waugh | Ireland | 2009 | 96 mins | Documentary

In contemporary culture we are often told that 'time' as we have experienced it historically is being obliterated by the acceleration of our technologydriven society. The Art of Time asks: how are leading artists and thinkers responding to this rapidly changing world, through the power of their thought, but also through their work? Filmmaker in attendance

BEFORE SUNRISE

Richard Linklater | United States, Austria | 1995 | 101 mins | Fiction

The first part of Richard Linklater’s Before trilogy, Before Sunrise features Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy as Jesse and Celine, two young people who meet on a train to Vienna and spend the night wandering around the city, both knowing that their romance may only last until the morning.

DONNIE DARKO

Richard Kelly | United States | 2001 | 113 mins | Fiction

Donnie Darko is an emotionally troubled teen who narrowly escapes death in a freak accident, and starts seeing a man in a large rabbit suit who tells him that the world will end in 28 days, six hours, 42 minutes and 12 seconds. A psychological time-warping cult classic starring Jake Gyllenhaal.

FRI 8 | ARC | 20:15 TUE 12 | TRISKEL | 15:00 THU 14 | EVERYMAN | 14:00 FRI 15 | EVERYMAN | 14:00

HIGH NOON

Fred Zinneman | United States | 1952 | 85 mins | Fiction

IRRÉVERSIBLE

MILLENNIUM ACTRESS

Will Kane, marshal of Hadleyville, prepares to retire and move to another town with his new wife, but news of a notorious criminal heading to Hadleyville forces Will to decide if he will leave or stay to confront the villain at noon. A classic real-time western with Gary Cooper and Grace Kelly.

The events of one traumatic night are revealed in reverse order. Nothing that happens can be avoided by what comes before it, and we must witness the protagonist's journey from darkness and violence to happier times. Gaspar Noé’s notorious and brutal thriller contains shocking scenes of violence and sexual abuse.

A TV interviewer and his cameraman visit the home of Chiyoko Fujiwara, a reclusive retired actress, who has agreed to a career-spanning interview. Reflecting on her own life, Chiyoko’s own story and those of her past roles weave and bind until fact and fiction are inseparable. A masterpiece of animation from the late Satoshi Kon.

SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 14:00 WED 13 | TRISKEL | 20:30 SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 13:00

ONLINE SELECTION

We are delighted to offer this programme of Irish premieres online nationwide from Mon 11 to Sunday 17 November and to screen three of these films in cinema with closed captioning in cinema (The Deposition, Hands in the Fire, and In Limbo).

Online films: Just like cinema screenings, online screenings have limited capacity so we recommend pre-booking. See corkfilmfest.org to book and watch.

THE DEPOSITION (LA DEPOSITION)

1993. Emmanuel is a young village boy in Eastern France. One rainy afternoon, Emmanuel leaves the presbytery after promising the local priest, Hubert, not to tell anyone what has just happened. Thirty years later, at the police station, Emmanuel discretely switches his phone recorder on and starts his deposition.

IN LIMBO (W ZAWIESZENIU)

Ukraine, February 2022. The Russian invasion on the outskirts of Kyiv forces Alina to join her parents in their village. The three do their best to get on with day-to-day life: keeping warm, feeding themselves and rescuing abandoned animals. But the noises of war are getting closer.

11 | ARC CINEMA | 16:00

IVO

Ivo is a palliative care nurse. She has formed a very close friendship with one of her patients, Solveigh, and also Solveigh’s husband, with whom Ivo sleeps with in hotels. But when Solveigh asks for Ivo’s help to end her life, cracks appear in Ivo’s routine. A moving drama about life-changing decisions.

MY SUNSHINE (BOKU NO OHISAMA)

On a Japanese island, life revolves around the changing seasons. Winter is time for ice hockey at school, but Takuya isn't too thrilled about it. His real interest lies in Sakura, a figure skating rising star, for whom he starts to develop a genuine fascination. A gorgeous and moving film.

HANDS IN THE FIRE (MÃNOS NO FOGO)

Young film student Maria do Mar travels the Douro River region to document old manor houses for her thesis project. Naively confident in the power of cinema to capture reality, she is shaken upon discovering the dark secrets of the final manor on her list.

THE TYPEWRITER AND OTHER HEADACHES (LA MACHINE À ÉCRIRE ET AUTRES SOURCES DE TRACAS)

The caregivers of a psychiatric institute in Paris visit mental health patients in their homes and help them fix the little problems that can make daily life feel insurmountable. A companion piece to Nicolas Philibert’s At Averroès & Rosa Parks, presented in the Illuminate strand (see p.31).

FAMILY & YOUNG PEOPLE

We hope our hand-picked selection of enchanting stories will encourage younger audiences to discover new horizons through festive adventures, mischievous animals, and heartwarming tales. A warning: all may develop an irresistible passion for cinema!

For each film we have included an age recommendation. For information on accessibility and sensoryfriendly screenings, see: corkfilmfest.org/access

BAMBI, A TALE OF LIFE IN THE WOODS (BAMBI, L'HISTOIRE D'UNE VIE DANS LES BOIS)

Recommended Age: 4+

Surrounded by his mother, father and friends the raven, the rabbit and the raccoon, Bambi discovers the secrets of the forest and the stages of life. This ravishing new adaptation from the famous book by Felix Salten, featuring live animals, is a gripping adventure for the youngest spectators and their parents.

SUN 10 | EVERYMAN | 11:00

THE MAGIC REINDEER - SAVING SANTA’S SLEIGH

Kari Juusonen, Jørgen Lerdam | Finland, Germany, Ireland, Denmark | 2024 | 85 mins | Fiction

Recommended Age: 4+

When his chance to join Santa's Flying Forces comes under threat, Niko, a young flying reindeer, must undertake some challenging adventures in time to save Christmas!

Also screening as part of our county-wide Super Cine Saturday (see p. 50)

SAT 9 | EVERYMAN | 11:00

PADDINGTON IN PERU

Dougal Wilson | United Kingdom | 2024 | 115 mins | Fiction

Recommended Age: PG (8+) PLUS SURPRISE ACTIVITIES!

A little bear goes a long way! Paddington In Peru brings Paddington back home to the Peruvian jungle to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, now a resident at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown Family and Mrs Bird in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mysterious disappearance plunges them into an unexpected journey from the Amazon rainforest to the mountain peaks of Peru.

FRI 8 | ARC CINEMA | 17:30

YOUNG HEARTS

Recommended Age: 11+

Elias (13) feels attracted to his new neighbour Alexander (14). Soon he realises that he's truly in love for the first time. Confused by his burgeoning feelings, Elias tries to sort out his inner chaos. A heartwarming film and audience favourite that promotes kindness and truthfulness, for teens and adults alike. Filmmaker in Attendance

SAT 9 | TRISKEL | 15:45 MON 11 | TRISKEL | 14:30

FAMILY-FRIENDLY SHORTS

58 mins

SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 14:30

A specially selected film programme for tots up to early teens.

MASSEY'S DRIVE - Eoin MacAlinney

COQUILLE - Justine Aubert, Cassandra Bouton, Grégoire Callies, Maud Chesneau, Anna Danton, Loic Girault, Gatien Peyrude, Justine Raux

PUFFERFISH - Julia Ocker

RHINO - Julia Ocker

MILO’S MELTDOWN - Jamie Mills

HOMEWORK - Nacho Arjona

#DOUDOUCHALLENGE - Julie Majcher, Alexandra Delaunay-Fernandez, Sixtine

SCHOOLS

Supporting film in school curricula in Junior and Leaving Cert French, Spanish and German, presented in association with IFI Schools, plus a CIFF Green Screen event focused on climate action suitable for students from Transition Year and up.

Schools programme available in Cork City (ARC Cinema), Midleton and Mallow (Gate Cinemas) 11 - 15 November; and Ballincollig (The Reel Picture) 11, 13-15 November.

For enquiries and to book, please contact schools@corkfilmfest.org

Senior Cycle French The Fantastic Three (Les trois fantastiques)

Junior Cycle French: Neneh Superstar

Senior Cycle German: The Teachers’ Lounge (Das Lehrerzimmer)

Junior Cycle German: Greetings from Mars (Grüsse vom Mars)

Senior Cycle Spanish: Love & Revolution (Te estoy amando locamente)

Junior Cycle Spanish: La Suprema

TY and up: Environmental Activism sponsored by Future Planet Once Upon a Time in a Forest

NEXT GENERATION PROGRAMME

15 – 19 NATIONAL ROADSHOW.

14 NOV | ST. PETER’S | 13:15 – 14:30

Learn how you can take your first steps towards a future in the film industry. The panel will include a Q&A.

Free but ticketed. To book: schools@corkfilmfest.org

Please note: for ages 15-19, TY students

Presented in partnership with IFI Next Generation

Emerat, Marine Benabdallah-Crolais, Scott Pardailhé-Galabrun, Noémie Segalowicz

FREAK OF NATURE - Alexandra Lermer

DANCE, YOU ARE ALIVE (CELEBRATING WORLD PEACE) - Mythravarun Vepakomma

INTINN

Intinn is our free unique film and mental health programme that offers Transition Year students the opportunity to explore mental health, personal wellbeing and strategies of resilience through film and workshops led by youth mental health specialists.

Two short film and workshop programmes will be available to book: Sound and Colour + workshop and Subsurface + workshop. See corkfilmfest.org/intinn for details.

Intinn is available for free in-person at St. Peter’s Cork 12 - 15 Nov, and online nationwide from 11 Nov.

For enquiries and to book, please contact schools@corkfilmfest.org

FILMMAKING WORKSHOPS

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH FIRST CUT! YOUTH FILM FESTIVAL

JUNIOR FILMMAKING WORKSHOP (8-12 y.o.)

SAT 16 | 10:00 - 13:00

Experience the fun and creativity of filmmaking!

SENIOR FILMMAKING WORKSHOP (13-17 y.o.)

SUN 17 | 11:00 - 16:30

For teens with a passion for filmmaking, working with professionals.

LOOK@ME OUTREACH FILMMAKING PROJECT

A short film created and produced by the 5th class students at Strawberry Hill Co-Educational Primary School, Cork with filmmaker Maximilian Le Cain will be presented to the pupils as part of our 69th Festival at St. Peter’s Cork. Commissioned by CIFF as part of its Look@Me film and education project.

FRI 15 | ST. PETER'S | 10:30

#DoudouChallenge

CORK LENS

Spotlighting the creative diversity of our local community, past and present, through film, conversation, and the panoramic screen of the city itself.

ARTS COUNCIL FILM ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT UCC: EMER REYNOLDS

THE FARTHEST

Ireland | 2016 | 121 mins | Documentary

Is it humankind’s greatest achievement? Twelve billion miles away a tiny spaceship is leaving our Solar System and entering the void of deep space. It is the first human-made object ever to do so.

Director and 2024 Arts Council Film Artist in Residence at UCC, Emer Reynolds, and the film’s producer Clare Stronge will participate in a post-screening ‘in-conversation’.

THE PROMISED LAND

SUN 17 | TRISKEL | 14:00

This new programme of work, from collections preserved in the IFI Irish Film Archive, includes a series of recently rediscovered Cork-themed films which provide a window onto the city and county in days gone by and further evidence of Cork’s rich amateur and professional film history.

KINGS OF SPADES

Ireland | 1940 | 20 mins | Documentary | Silent

This British film chronicles the lives of the men who owned and worked in the Monard Ironworks in Co Cork which operated from 1790 to the early 1960s.

See p. 20 for a companion screening, King of Spades - Looking Back showing with The Irish Lumières - The Horgan Brothers.

THE FILMS OF FRANK MORGAN

Frank Morgan, photographer, filmmaker and founder of the Rathcormac Film Unit, directed a series of award-winning short dramas featuring actors from Fermoy and environs in the 1970s and 1980s. The work is now preserved in the IFI Irish Film Archive.

LÁ AOIFE

Frank Morgan | Ireland | 1979 | 20 mins | Fiction

Frank Morgan | Ireland | 1986 | 25 mins | Fiction

When Nora and her family move to a 150 acre farm to help her husband’s sickly Uncle Tom, she sets her sights on inheriting the land. Featuring Geraldine Canning, Bill Canning, and Jim Carrig.

THE OTHER SIDE

Frank Morgan | Ireland | 1981 | 15 mins | Fiction

A timid teenage babysitter encounters a rowdy motorcycle gang, and she and her infant charge are subjected to their cruel antics. Featuring Marion Dowley, Teresa O'Flynn and Máirín Morrish.

CORK MIGRANT

CENTRE:

SISTERHOOD & SANCTUARY

Diarmuid McIntyre & Mary McDonnell | Ireland | 2024 | 75 mins | Documentary

Sisterhood & Sanctuary is a Co-Creative film, a collaboration between Cork Migrant Centre, Saoirse Ethnic Hands On Deck, and Grey Heron Media.

Following the women and mothers who participate in activities at Cork Migrant Centre, their powerful and personal testimonies reveal the abundant creativity and indomitable spirit of these determined women who have established a thriving social enterprise, Saoirse EHD (Ethnic Hands on Deck). Saoirse, meaning "freedom" in Irish, reflects their aim to unlock the potential of migrant women to create beautiful products and foster a movement of empowerment, resilience, and solidarity. Their original designs reflect the joyful fusion of cultures, embodying the hope and determination that drive them.

Join us for the Saoirse EHD pop-up market following the screening.

CORK FILM TRAIL

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING A DISRUPTOR

Between Festival screenings, we invite you to explore our Cork Film Trail, showcasing CIFF’s rebellious and disruptive spirit, just like the city itself. Located at five sites across the city centre, the vibrant installations draw inspiration from the CIFF Digital Archive.The Trail also includes a special tribute to the virtuoso who forged a musical revolution in his native city and became an internationally acclaimed folk hero, Cork’s own Rory Gallagher, complementing the Festival’s: 50th anniversary presentation of Rory Gallagher: Irish Tour ‘74 (see p. 14).

Cork Film Trail locations: City Hall, Anglesea Street; ARC Cinema, North Main Street; The Metropole Hotel, MacCurtain Street; the Irish Examiner, Oliver Plunkett Street; and Debenhams, Patrick Street. Our online Trail map and accompanying short podcasts at each site will guide you on your journey of discovery.

Experience Cork’s famous hospitality and pub scene by enjoying some refreshments along the Trail (see our map for nearby establishments at each site!). We’ll be hosting our popular film quiz during the Festival too - keep an eye out for details on corkfilmfest.org and our social media platforms. Don’t forget to share your Trail experience on social media with #CIFF2024.

The Cork Film Trail is presented by Cork International Film Festival in partnership with Murphy’s and our Creative Partner, Babelfís. It is supported by Cork City Council.

BRÍAN CROTTY ART

EXHIBITION & SCREENING

Exhibition: Tue 11 - Sat 16 Nov |

St. Peter’s | Free Entry | Fiction

Screenings (Four Per Day): Tue 12 & Wed 13 |

St. Peter’s | 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00 | Free But Ticketed

CIFF WALKING TOURS

Explore the Festival and our city on foot with two CIFF Walking Tours: our Disruptors Walking Tour hosted by historian and former Lord Mayor, Cllr Kieran McCarthy, and a Culinary Cinema Walking Tour, including a wander through Cork’s legendary English Market, hosted by Regina Sexton, academic food writer, culinary historian, broadcaster and cook. For more information, tour dates and times, see corkfilmfest.org.

Supported by Cork City Council’s Community Heritage Grant Scheme

CIFF DIGITAL ARCHIVE

Our Festival’s unique Digital Archive is a treasure trove of precious materials, including photographs, programme covers and posters from previous Festival editions, tracking the history of modern film and Cork amassed over 69 years. Developed in collaboration with the Department of Digital Humanities, UCC

We would love to hear your Festival memories!

In years gone by, were you in the crowd at the red carpet on opening night of Cork International Film Festival? Did you premiere your first short film at the Festival?

In 2025, to mark the Festival’s social heritage and contribution to the cultural life of Cork City, we would love to grow our Digital Archive and share your stories. Send us your memories, photos and paraphernalia via email to archive@corkfilmfest.org or call into our office at 13 Bridge House, St. Patrick’s Quay, Cork T23 DX9K.

View the archive online at corkfilmfest.org

Visual artist Bríain Crotty presents a brand new film and art exhibition that unveils a new artistic language in which cinema and painting converge to explore the ephemeral nature of memory and the profound depths of the Irish experience.

DROP

Brían Crotty | Ireland | 2024 | 37 mins | Fiction

In a fusion of painting, animation, AI generation, and cinematic artistry, Drop follows the conversation between Noelle and Frank, where they grapple with the complexities of fragmented and traumatic memory and the interplay between dreams and reality.

The film's narrative unfolds with a cinematic rhythm, challenging viewers to engage with the permanence of painted scenes and the ephemeral qualities of cinema.

Note: the 18:00 screenings incorporates a live performance

Eric Luke

PARALLAX

Our Parallax selection is home to talented artists from all around the world who play with cinema's technical possibilities with the curiosity, ambition and freedom of true adventurers. Selected by our programmers and our guest curators, aemi.

AEMI EXPERIMENTAL SHORTS

FLIGHTS FROM REASON

SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 13:00

A programme of new works by film artists from Ireland, France, the U.K., Poland and Sweden, curated by aemi for CIFF. Total: 84 mins.

Louis et les langues (Louis and languages)

Aurélien Froment | United Kingdom | 2023 | 22 mins

Margaret (Back Translation)

Saskia Holmkvist | Sweden | 2023 | 19 mins | Fiction

Máthair

Keira Greene | United Kingdom | 2024 | 16 mins | Fiction

Popół imieniem jest człowieka (Ashes by Name is Man)

Ewelina Rosinska | Germany | 2022 | 20 mins | Fiction

Different Dusts

Chloe Brenan | 2021 | Ireland | 7 minutes | Fiction

‘THE SAID AND THE UNSAID’

SUN 17 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30 | Fiction

This eclectic programme describes a variety of creative means of expression borne out of a necessity to speak, however indirectly. Total: 76 mins

3 Peonies

Stephanie Barber | United States | 2017 | 3 mins | Fiction

In Search of the Forenaughts Longstone

Jonathon O’Grady | Ireland | 2021 | 12 mins | Fiction

Nazarbazi ( نظربازی )

Maryam Tafakory | Iran, United Kingdom | 2022 | 19 mins

Few Can See

Frank Sweeney | Ireland | 2023 | 42 mins | Fiction

SLEEP#2

Radu Jude | Romania | 2024 | 62 mins | Fiction

Andy Warhol’s debut film Sleep (1963) captured his lover John Giorno as he slept naked in bed, for more than five hours. Radu Jude’s 2024 Sleep#2 is a much shorter film about a more finite kind of sleep, as it observes life in its various manifestations around Warhol’s grave.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 14:00 THU 14 | ARC CINEMA | 13:45

STRANGE ABANDONED DERANGED

The rise and catastrophic fall of Naturland Eco Park, the first eco-hotel in Turkey, unfolds in a kaleidoscopic journey through the derelict remains of the once idyllic resort. Director Ceylan Özgün Özçelik presents a film which is hybrid in every way, perfectly encapsulating the bizarre location in its dystopian fairytale state.

Filmmaker in attendance.

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 14:45

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 14:00

OLIVIA AND THE CLOUDS (OLIVIA Y LAS NUBES)

Olivia cannot forget Ramon, and keeps his ghost under her bed. As we embark on a trip through memories of their affair, both their viewpoints are seen through a variety of animation styles and mixed media. A superb and dizzying exploration of the memory of love’s enduring power.

SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 21:00

DROPPED FRAMES

PARALLAX EMERGING FILM ARTIST

SAT 9 - SUN 30 | THE LORD MAYOR’S PAVILION | 11:00 - 16:00 | FREE | Fiction

OPEN DAILY: TUE-SAT 11:00 - 16:00

OPENING RECEPTION: 13:00 Sat 9 Nov

Dropped Frames is a solo exhibition by Asha Murray, recipient of the Parallax Emerging Film Artist Bursary 2024, a collaboration between CIFF, National Sculpture Factory and Sample-Studios to champion emerging film artists and moving image work. The recipient of the 2025 Bursary will be announced during the Festival on Thu 14 Nov at the Triskel. See p. 15 for details.

A Woman of the Darkest Deeds

FREE RADICALS

SAT 16 | ARC CINEMA | 20:45

Experimental work from Irish and international filmmakers.

Please note: This programme contains sequences of fast flashing lights. It may affect people who are susceptible to photosensitive epilepsy.

FOXWORLD

Aoife Carolan | Ireland | 2024 | 4 mins

THE BARREL

Katie McFadden | Ireland | 12 mins

DAY TRIP (IN MEMORY OF MARY BUTTERS)

Dawn Richardson | Northern Ireland | 2023 | 27 mins

A WOMAN OF THE DARKEST DEEDS

Chris O’Neil | Ireland | 2024 | 12 mins

NIGHT FLIGHT

Sharon Whooley | Ireland | 2023 | 17 mins

ELTONS BINS

Ian Helliwell | UK | 2024 | 3 mins

FAIRGROUND BACKGROUND

Ian Helliwell | UK | 2024 | 3 mins

SCHLIMMIGE KREISE - INPUT : REASON

Tina Frank | Austria | 2023 | 5 mins

MARE IMBRIUM

Siegfried A. Fruhauf | Austria | 2024 | 12 mins

SHORTS AWARDS

Presented on Thu 14 November in partnership with Murphy’s

All short film awards will be decided by the Short Film Jury: Krzysztof Sienkiewicz, Programmer, Zubroffka Shorts International Film Festival; Duncan Cowles, Filmmaker; Dawn Mac Allister, Casting/Producer

GRAND PRIX IRISH SHORT* Academy Award®-Qualifying Category

GRAND PRIX INTERNATIONAL SHORT* Academy Award®-Qualifying Category

GRAND PRIX DOCUMENTARY SHORT* Academy Award®-Qualifying Category

IRISH SHORTS

BEST DIRECTOR: IRISH SHORT

Supported by Screen Directors Guild Ireland

BEST CORK SHORT AWARD

Cork International Film Festival is the official Irish representative for:

SHORT FILM CANDIDATE FOR THE EUROPEAN FILM AWARDS 2025

AUDIENCE AWARD (SHORTS)

Chosen by you, the audience. Vote online for your favourite short. Winner to be announced at the Closing Gala on Sun 17 November.

For all juror profiles, see corkfilmfest.org/jurors2024

*Academy Award®-qualifying

Our awards are designed and created by our Trophy Partner

Films in competition are eligible for the Grand Prix Irish Short Award, and where stated [GP]. Films eligible for the Grand Prix Documentary Short Award [D] and Pure Cork Award [C] where stated. All films 2024, except where indicated. Awards presentation supported by Murphy’s (please drink responsibly).

IRISH SHORTS 1: IN COMPETITION

2024 | 104 mins

SAT 9 | ARC CINEMA | 18:00

An eclectic and exciting mix of Irish and World Premiere shorts.

CLODAGH - Portia A. Buckley [C]

SKIRMISH - Julia Wysocka

ÉIST LIOM - Maud Lee, Zoe Ní Riordáin

INSIDE, THE VALLEY SINGS - Nathan Fagan [D]

FARMERS!? - Freddie Leyden

HIT THE WALL - Ailill Martin [D]

IRISH SHORTS 2: IN COMPETITION

2024 | 100 mins SUN 10 | ARC CINEMA | 11:30

Innovative and captivating Irish and World Premiere shorts.

CLOSING OF THE BONES - Claire Murphy [D]

NIGHT FLIGHT - Sharon Whooley [C]

IVANKO THE BEAR’S CHILD - Feargal Ward, Jonathan Sammon [D]

DAY TRIP (IN MEMORY OF MARY BUTTERS) - (2023)

Dawn Richardson [D]

PARISH - Eoin Heaney (2023)

Parish Inside, the Valley Sings

IRISH SHORTS 3: PURE CORK IN

COMPETITION

22024 | 104 mins

SUN 10 | EVERYMAN | 14:00

A showcase of the emerging (and established!) filmmaking talent across Cork County.

TIME TO TUNE IN - Aoife Tutty Jackson

DOLLAR BABY’S - Remi Alfallah, Megan Haly

BREAKFAST ROLL - Remi Alfallah, Shannon Haly

NIGHT HAG - Lauren Gabrielle Fabilane

HEARTBEATS OF HOPE - Aoise Tutty Jackson, Kevin O'Shanahan [D]

REPLAY - Fergus Daly [D]

SETANTA & JIM CULLEN - Jack Desmond, Cian Desmond

HERE - Mark Lynch

IRISH SHORTS 4: OUT OF COMPETITION IRISH SHORTS

2024 | 99 mins

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 13:00

A selection of some of our favourite Irish shorts released prior to our Festival this year. The programme features an exciting mix of hard-hitting documentary, beautiful drama and inspiring Afrofuturism.

SICÁR - Ethan Donoghue

THE BUILDING AND BURNING OF A REFUGEE CAMP - Dennis Harvey

WE BEG TO DIFFER - Ruairi Bradley THIS IS NOT AN ATTACK ON YOUR PARENTING - Rory Fleck Byrne

NIGHT GLANCES - Sam Ahern

WHY THE SUN & MOON LIVE IN THE SKY- Aisha Bolaji

FÍS ÉIREANN/SCREEN IRELAND SHORTS

2024 | 104 mins

SAT 9 | EVERYMAN | 14:30

Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland is proud to present the World Premieres (WP) of new Irish short films funded under the Focus and Real Short film schemes, along with Cork picks of recent Screen Ireland short films. The Frameworks short films featured in this screening are co-funded by RTÉ.

COME BACK - Helen O’Reilly (WP) [GP]

GAEL FORCE - Tara Hegarty (WP) [D]

TURNAROUND - Aisling Byrne [C]

MERO - Jack Phelan

ONE MORE ROUND - Barry John O'Connor

PEAT - Paudie Baggott

CAT & MOUSE - Michael-David McKernan

RETIREMENT PLAN - John Kelly

Come Back

Setanta & Jim Cullen

Night Glances

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS

International premieres: Eligible for Grand Prix International Short Award and Grand Prix

Documentary Short Award. All films are from 2024 except where indicated.

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS 1

91 mins

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 15:30

Prove yourself to the world!

TRANSYLVANIE - Rodrigue Huart (2023)

LUX CARNE - Gabriel Grosclaude

DUTY FREE - Hilke Rönnfeldt

SHE STAYS - Marinthia Gutiérrez

TEEN GIRL FANTASY - Marisa Hoicka

RADIKALS - Arvin Belarmino

*contains flashing images

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS 2

96 mins

MON 11 | ARC CINEMA | 17:45

The moments in-between.

MORNING - Olivia Jane Middleton

THE MAN WHO COULD NOT REMAIN SILENTNebojša Slijepčević

BAD FOR A MOMENT - Daniel Soares

SONIDO: IVANS & TOBIS - Diogo Baldaia (2023)

VOX HUMANA - Don Josephus Raphael Eblahan

THE ELECTRIC KISS* - Rainer Kohlberger

Duty Free Sonido: Ivans & Tobis

Radikals

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS 3

DOCUMENTARY

86 mins

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 13:30

Wise words on filmmaking, on marriage, on expressing yourself in a restrictive regime. And horses!

FRIEDL - Christiana Perschon (2023)

SOUTHERN BRIDES (LAS NOVIAS DEL SUR) - Elena López Riera

RAZEH-DEL - Maryam Tafakory NO HORSES ON MARS - Bea de Visser

EUNIC SHORT SHORTS FROM EUROPE FILM FESTIVAL 2024

91 mins

MON 11 | ARC | 18:00 | FREE BUT TICKETED Shorts from 12 EU countries from the EUNIC Ireland cluster.

IRELAND PRESENTS: WASHED UP LOVE - Dylan Cotter

HUNGARY PRESENTS: MAESTRO - Géza M. Tóth

PORTUGAL PRESENTS: BLOOD BROTHERSMarco Espírito Santo and Miguel Coimbra

LUXEMBOURG PRESENTS: GLOW - Fred Neuen

ITALY PRESENTS: GRAZIANO E LA GIRAFFA (GRAZIANO AND THE GIRAFFE) - Fabio Orlando and Tommaso Zerbi

GERMANY PRESENTS: TREASURES - Welf Reinhart

SLOVENIA PRESENTS: TA PRESNETA OČETOVA KAMERA! (MY FATHER'S DAMN CAMERA!) - Miloš Tomić

INTERNATIONAL SHORTS 4

DOCUMENTARY

96 mins

TUE 12 | ARC CINEMA | 15:45 On self and the image.

MAN NUMBER 4 - Miranda Pennell THE WEIGHT OF SIGHT - Truls Krane Meby (2023)

LOVEBOARD - Felipe Casanova (2023)

BLUE - Ana Vijdea BEING JOHN SMITH - John Smith

All international documentary shorts are eligible for the Grand Prix Documentary Award

POLAND PRESENTS: KRAB (CRAB) - Piotr Chmielewski

SPAIN PRESENTS: SI ME QUEREI, IRSE (LEAVE, THUS LOVE ME) - Sofía Muñoz

AUSTRIA PRESENTS: ME, MYSELF AND I - Claudia Larcher

FRANCE PRESENTS: H24 – 08H - 10 CM AUDESSUS DU SOL (10 CM ABOVE GROUND) - Nathalie Masduraud and Valérie Urrea

MALTA PRESENTS: SOMEWHERE - Fabrizio Ellul

OUT OF COMPETITION

CORK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS: CUMHA - Elena Horgan

TUS LIMERICK SCHOOL OF ART AND DESIGN PRESENTS: CURVEBALL - John Bray

Southern Brides Blue

INDUSTRY EVENTS

FIRST TAKE

THU 14 NOV | 11:30 - 17:00 | TRISKEL | TICKETS €15

First Take is a training and development platform for newly established film professionals, film and media students and the wider film industry, which comprises case studies, presentations and panel discussions. Its intention is to promote fresh thinking amongst emerging and working filmmakers, inspiring them to be proactive in creating and promoting their own film work.

This year’s event will include collaborations with Women in Film & Television Ireland, focusing on career opportunities in our island’s thriving animation industry, a spotlight on emerging Irish screenwriters, and a session centring on neurodivergent voices in the screen sector.

We will also profile September Says, an Irish feature co-production which premiered this year at Cannes Film Festival, and host a special case study of the Irish folk horror feature Fréwaka with director Aislinn Clarke. Both films are screening as part of the CIFF selection this year (see p.19 for details)

A networking reception, co-supported by the National Talent Academies, will conclude the event from 17:00 to 18:00

Visit corkfilmfest.org/industry for further details and to book.

DOC DAY LIVE

FRI 15 NOV | 11:30 - 17:00 | TRISKEL | TICKETS €20

Cork International Film Festival continues to develop its focus on high-quality Irish and international documentary cinema with Doc Day, connecting emerging and established non-fiction filmmakers with industry professionals and the wider documentary sector, with the objective of helping to inform, inspire and develop opportunities within the global documentary landscape.

Doc Day 2024 will focus on the EURODOC programme, and include participation from leading European documentary curators from CPH:DOX and Locarno, as well as featuring case studies of Chasing the Light and The Making of a Japanese from the Festival’s 2024 nonfiction selection (see p. 18 and 12 respectively).

A networking reception will conclude the event from 17:00 to 18:30, followed by the Documentary Gala screening of The Making of a Japanese at 20:00 at the Everyman (see p. 12 for details).

Aislinn Clarke

Carmel Winters

Clare Stronge

Rory Cashin

Moe Honan

Mads Mikkelsen

Official Industry Partner: Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland.

Ema Ryan Yamazaki

Eric Nyari

Official Industry Partner: Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland.

DOC DAY ONLINE

15 NOV - 13 DEC |

Free of

Charge

In addition to the in-person offering for Doc Day 2024, the Festival will host a series of online sessions, complementing this year’s nonfiction programme and encompassing in-depth filmmaker conversations and case studies.

Doc Day Online is free but ticketed, and available to watch worldwide. Visit corkfilmfest.org/ industry for further details and to book.

IGNITE - DOCS

IGNITE-Docs is a bilingual talent development programme led by Cork International Film Festival and Docs Ireland, directed towards emerging Irish and Northern Irish documentary filmmakers embarking on their first or second non-fiction feature film.

A joint initiative of Cork International Film Festival & Docs Ireland, Belfast, supported by TG4, the Arts Council of Ireland, Fís Éireann/ Screen Ireland, Coimisiún na Meán, Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet, Northern Ireland Screen, and Arts & Business NI.

Supported by

SUPER CINE SATURDAY

Wherever you are, join us on Saturday 16 November for a feast of Festival films! CIFF is delighted to have teamed up with four cinemas across Cork County: Cinemax Bantry; Gate Cinemas Midleton and Mallow; and Regal Cinema Youghal - who will exclusively show a ‘Taste of CIFF’ with three specially selected feature films from the 69th Festival programme.

SANTA’S SLEIGH

THE MAGIC REINDEER: SAVING

BLUE ROAD: THE EDNA O’BRIEN STORY

Kari Juusonen, Jørgen Lerdam | Finland, Germany, Ireland, Denmark | 2024 | 85 mins | Fiction

See p.38

The whole family can enjoy a gorgeous, festive family animation featuring a magic reindeer; the premiere of Sinéad O’Shea’s insightful and affecting documentary on the late Edna O’Brien; and must-see metaphysical LGBTQ+ comedy from this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

SAT 16 NOVEMBER

Sinéad O’Shea | Ireland | 2024 | 100 mins | Documentary

See p.11

See p. 24

MISERICORDIA (MISÉRICORDE)

DAYTIME HUB & NIGHTTIME

Soak

CLUB

FESTIVAL HUBTHE METROPOLE HOTEL

We are delighted to partner with The Metropole Hotel on MacCurtain Street to provide our daytime Festival Hub.

Located in the heart of the VQ, you will find the CIFF customer help desk and enjoy a warm welcome at this iconic Cork hotel during the Festival.

World-renowned for over 125 years of hospitality and famous for having welcomed stars of screen, stage, art and literature, it is an ideal spot for meeting fellow filmmakers, jurors and industry professionals, and enjoying refreshments between films! Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00, 8 - 17 Nov.

FESTIVAL CLUBINTERMISSION @ THE PAV

Relax and round off your day of watching the best in cultural cinema in the cosy surrounds of Intermission (Carey’s Lane). Our Festival Club is the perfect place for convivial conversation and connection with filmmakers and friends over revitalising refreshments. Every night during the Festival from 9.30pm.

The Festival Club is sponsored by our official Drinks Partner, Murphy’s. (Enjoy responsibly)

FIND US

ACCESS

If you are planning to visit Cork to attend the 69th Cork International Film Festival, scan the QR code to access our map and helpful travel and accommodation tips. Please check with your travel operator regarding the latest travel information and timetables.

As a local festival with a global focus, CIFF has celebrated and promoted diversity and inclusion for 69 years. We welcome all visitors to screenings and events and are committed to ensuring that the Festival, its venues and activities, are accessible and inclusive.

• An accessible brochure is available to download from our website (corkfilmfest.org)

• Free accompanying carer ticket is available for all events (either book online or contact us by email or phone as per below)

• Festival Volunteers are onsite at each venue to support access needs during screenings

• Our Festival Hub at The Metropole Hotel, where our Customer Support desk is based, has step-free access

• Our Festival Club, Intermission, has a stepfree entrance and accessible bathroom.

• Our Festival screening venues have step-free access, accessible bathroom facilities, and wheelchair spaces in their auditoria - please see corkfilmfest.org/access for full details

• All non-English language films will be subtitled

• Family films that include additional accessibility for young people with autism or sensory sensitivities will be tagged with (SF) on corkfilmfest.org.

More information about venue and online accessibility is available at corkfilmfest.org/access.

If you have specific access needs or queries, we would be happy to help: access@corkfilmfest.org or +353 (0) 21 427 1711

SUSTAINABILITY

CIFF is committed to becoming a greener organisation that can lead the way for a more sustainable cultural landscape in Ireland. We aim to continuously improve our sustainability performance by focussing on four key pillars that reflect CIFF’s overarching purposethese are: Community; Climate; Education & Influence; and Fairness.

Our Access webpage (corkfilmfest.org/access) includes details on public transport options for each of the Festival’s main venues.

We encourage our audiences to support us on our sustainability journey, and we welcome any feedback that can help us improve: sustainability@corkfilmfest.org

The Arts Council proudly supports ﬁlm festivals to bring the art of ﬁlm to

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