Film at Re-Imagining Ireland

The Last Time (2002 - 35mm, 12 mins.)
Writer/Director: Conor Horgan
Courtesy Cork International Film Fetsival

Each day at Re-Imagining Ireland, the Cork International Film Festival will present a 75-minute program of short films from Ireland and Northern Ireland - films connected to the conference themes. The shorts screened will range from "classics" of the '90s to recently completed works. Additionally, Bord Scannán, The Irish Film Board, will present a new Irish feature film on the evening of May 8.

Irish filmmakers continue to create works that challenge the dominant, often formulaic film that Hollywood exports worldwide. With stories informed by local cultures, traditions, and a history that appears to have universal interest, Irish filmmakers are working to establish their place within the global media market, hoping to find a wider audience. Some, of course, have altogether "retreated from Burbank," insisting on maintaining the purity of Irish indigenous cinema. Others have tried to achieve greater visibility by straddling the line between a nationally directed storytelling and international financing, casting, and production values.

After '68 (1993 - 16mm, 26 mins.)
Writer/Director Stephen Burke
Courtesy Mammoth Films

Still others, including an increasing number of younger filmmakers, suggest that Irish-themed and recognizably Irish films are counter-productive to the goal of achieving international cinematic currency. Much contemporary Irish film focuses on violence within a culture - most especially the Northern Irish situation. The films do so in an uncompromising way that works to defuse impulses to violence.

The complete schedule of screenings will be posted on this site during the week of March 3rd. Those who register for the conference arts package will receive admission to the screenings of their choice. Individual ticket sales will commence March 1.

View Feature Film Screening
View Short Film Screenings