TG4 showcases five films, featuring the Irish premieres of ‘Kneecap’ and ‘Fidil Ghorm’, at the 36th Annual Galway Film Fleadh.
The films span diverse genres and themes, highlighting the rich tapestry of Irish storytelling and filmmaking.
Irish Premiere of KNEECAP
KNEECAP, a thrilling biopic based on the formation of the revolutionary Irish-language rap trio KNEECAP, stars band members Mo Chara, Móglaí Bap, and DJ Próvaí alongside Academy Award® nominee Michael Fassbender.
Set in West Belfast in 2019, the film chronicles the trio’s journey to musical stardom. KNEECAP was the winner of the Sundance NEXT Audience Award.
Writer/Director: Rich Peppiatt
Cast: Naoise Ó’Caireallán, Liam Óg O’Hannaidh, DJ Próvaí, Michael Fassbender, Simone Kirby, Fionnuala Flaherty, Josie Walker and Jessica Reynolds.
Producer: Trevor Birney, Jack Tarling, Patrick O’Neill
Irish Premiere of KNEECAP – Tuesday, July 9 | 19:00 | Town Hall Theatre
Irish Premiere of Fidil Ghorm (New Cine4 Film)
Fidil Ghorm, a heartwarming Irish-language drama, tells the poignant story of 10-year-old Molly, who believes learning to play the fiddle like her comatose father might awaken him.
Her quest for musical magic leads her to a grumpy but talented fiddler in a rehab center, sparking a journey of hope and healing.
Director: Anne McCabe
Writer: Patricia Forde
Producers: Bríd Seoighe, Pierce Boyce
Cast: Ruadhán Flatharta, Marcus Lamb, Sarah Jane Scott, Siobhan O’Kelly, Barry Mc Govern, Edith Lawlor
Irish Premiere of Fidil Ghorm (New Cine4 Film) Wednesday, July 10 | 18:30 | Town Hall Theatre
Burkitt
This thought-provoking documentary explores the life and legacy of Irish surgeon Denis Burkitt, who discovered Burkitt’s lymphoma.
Told through the eyes of a survivor, first-time filmmaker Éanna Mac Cana intertwines personal recordings with Burkitt’s archival footage, examining the nonlinear impacts of trauma, colonialism, and medical ethics.
This film sheds light on Burkitt’s contributions to medical science and Mac Cana’s personal connection to his legacy.
Burkitt – Sunday, July 14 | 17:00 | Pálás
Iarsmaí na hIarsmalainne
Iarsmaí na hIarsmalainne delves into the complex histories of ethnographic collections in Ireland and Britain, focusing on stolen Aboriginal material, TCD’s Colonial Legacies Project, and looted Nigerian artefacts.
This documentary examines the implications of the ‘decolonising’ process, especially concerning human remains and Irish artefacts. Produced for TG4 and the BBC, the film is supported by the Irish Language Broadcast Fund and the BAI.
Iarsmaí na hIarsmalainne -Saturday, July 13 | 14:00 | Pálás
Scríofa sna Réalta
Scríofa sna Réalta follows the inspiring journey of Seán, a 9-year-old neurodivergent boy, determined to land a lead role in a local play despite numerous challenges.
Shot in Connemara, Co Galway, the film showcases Seán’s resilience and passion. Directed by Vincent Gallagher and produced by Sin É Films, the story is a testament to overcoming obstacles and self-doubt.
The film was commissioned by TG4 as part of the Eurovision Children’s Drama Series initiative.
Scríofa sna Rialta – Wednesday, July 10 | 12:00 | Town Hall Theatre
Mary Ellen Ní Chualáin, Commissioning Manager at TG4, expressed her excitement for the upcoming premieres.
“We are delighted to bring such a diverse and powerful lineup of films to the Galway Film Fleadh this year. Each film offers a unique perspective and showcases the incredible talent within the Irish film industry.”
“TG4 is committed to supporting and promoting Irish-language films, and we believe these stories will resonate deeply with audiences.”
For more information and tickets, please visit: https://www.galwayfilmfleadh.com