5 Stunning Irish Films That Are Screening At Galway Film Fleadh
Galway Film Fleadh is Ireland’s most prestigious film festival. Running from 7–12 July, this is usually your first chance to see the top tier of Irish cinematography. Whether it’s documentaries, shorts, or feature films, here are our picks for some unmissable works at the Fleadh this year.
The Siege Of Paradise
Directed by: Gar O’Rourke
The newest work from one of Ireland’s hottest documentarians, Gar O’Rourke. Gar’s previous documentary, Sanatorium, became Ireland’s submission for Best International Feature Film at last year’s Oscars. This newest project focuses on the serene setting of Cinque Terre, where fewer than 3,000 locals share their picturesque home with over four million tourists every year. Drawing on the stories of the town’s mayor, local fishermen, and business owners, we’re given a picture of how overtourism can manifest.
The Lost Children of Tuam
Directed by: Frank Berry
The Lost Children of Tuam is a dramatisation of the discovery of over 800 infant bodies buried on the grounds of the Tuam Mother and Baby Home. Here, we see amateur historian Catherine Corless uncover the evidence that leads to a deeply troubling revelation. We follow her fight for justice as she takes on the Church and the Irish Government in search of answers for those impacted.
Gealtra
Directed by: Brendan Canty
Coming from the award-winning mind behind Christy, Gealtra tells the brilliant story of Cork’s Kabin Krew. This documentary explores how a community-led project turned into a viral sensation. Guided by rapper and spoken word artist Séamus Barra Ó Súilleabháin, the film shows how creativity and music can make learning Irish feel natural, empowering, and deeply personal.
All About The Money
Directed By: Sinead O’Shea
Fresh off its screening at the Sundance Film Festival, Sinéad O’Shea follows Fergie Chambers, the black sheep of an extremely wealthy American family, as he attempts to create a communist utopia. In a bid to end inequality, Fergie recruits people on the fringes of society to join his commune. What happens when almost endless wealth meets the challenge of realising an idealistic vision of society?
Magilligan
Directed by: Ross McClean
Ryan has spent much of his life in and out of prison in Northern Ireland. This documentary follows his journey towards rehabilitation, seeking peace through working with sheep. What begins as a path to rebuilding his life gradually reveals itself to be a deeper struggle: not just for freedom from prison walls, but from the weight of grief, addiction, and the community threats that continue to shadow him outside.
