Projects in genres: Northern Irish

Synopsis

In this participatory documentary, filmmaker Rabie Mustapha works with a group of children living in Northern Ireland to tell stories about their family life and cultural backgrounds. Despite the children’s globalised nature, they manage to bring in an insight to specific cultural journeys from Al-Nuba, Halab and the Northern Irish countryside. We see Maya, an inquisitive 9 year old girl whose hobby is to deliver shocking facts within a deadpan and to ask deep philosophical questions. Through an interview with her mom we learn about her Nubian heritage and a long history of generations displacement. Mahmoud and Khalid on the other hand are more calm and observant. Through their filmmaking journey we learn about their Syrian and Turkman heritage. With Mila we see the countryside of Limavady and learn about a more relaxed way of living where children are more connected to nature and where the girl’s artistic abilities are developing. Through this pluralistic film Northern Ireland is portrayed as a changing place with more than one face.

Synopsis

An intimate portrait of a women's group in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The documentary follows the women as they collaboratively create a stage production. Through writing sessions, rehearsals, and candid conversations, the women craft a performance rooted in their lived experiences - stories shaped by addiction, family fracture, and encounters with the justice system. The documentary follows the evolving group dynamic, capturing moments of vulnerability, frustration, and unexpected humour as the women negotiate what it means to share such personal stories in a public space for the first time.

Synopsis

Simon, an ambitious young journalist, is on the look out for a good news story. When James contacts him, Simon’s interest is piqued. What Simon ultimately discovers, however, is a longstanding feud involving one dead dog, two angry men and three slain sheep. Against the advice of his editor, Simon senses that he might be able to act as a mediator between the pair. However, he quickly discovers that brokering a peace will be no easy task.

Synopsis

Ryan is brimming with optimism to work on a sheep farm in anticipation of his release from a Northern Irish prison. But the harsh realities that await him on the outside soon threaten to unravel his ambitions. Filmed on two sides of the prison walls, the film contemplates whether Ryan’s path is destined by the weight of his community and history, or if it is within his power to break the cycle. Official Selection Visions du Réel Film Festival 2026 - World premiere

Synopsis

In the fading summer light, fourteen-year-old Chris is tested by his friends — a journey that reveals the gap between simplified notions of masculinity and the deeper emotions and diverse voices that shape identity. Official Selection Foyle Film Festival 2025

Synopsis

A 1980s popstar receives a surprising invitation to perform, pulling him out of musical retirement and into a moral dilemma. Official Selection BFI London Film Festival 2025 - Short Film Competition - World premiere Official Selection Belfast Film Festival 2025 Official Selection Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival 2026 BAFTA Film Awards 2026 - Nomination - Best British Short Film

Synopsis

An anxious young man, Ruari, arrives to meet his dad, Liam, in their local pub. They reminisce about the past, as Ruari struggles to share some big news. Conversation turns to Liam’s alcoholism, which resulted in the breakdown of Liam’s marriage to Ruari’s Mum, Bridget. As tensions rise over the strained father-son relationship, Ruari finally tells his dad the reason for their impromptu meeting – he has Motor Neurone Disease. He is going to die. The shock forces them to finally connect and talk properly, as they realise what is ahead of them. Desperate, Ruari asks his dad to help him break the news to his mum. Liam, reluctant at first, downs another pint, and it hits Ruari that his dad is drinking non-alcoholic beer. As Bridget, Ruari’s mum, walks through the door, Liam is caught in the headlights by the family reunion. In tragedy and celebration, and with their differences finally set aside, we know that these two men will navigate their days ahead, together. Official Selection Galway Film Fleadh 2026

Synopsis

A successful archaeologist but absentee mother travels to Ireland to excavate a centuries old tomb. Within the site lurks a danger hidden from mankind for centuries. Once it is unleashed she must battle to save her rebellious teenage daughter from possession by a vengeful Pagan War Goddess, The Morrigan. Official Selection Galway Film Fleadh 2025 Official Selection Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival 2025

Synopsis

During a heatwave in Belfast, transgender man Owen returns to the flat of his on-off-again lover Seán after taking a pregnancy test. Official Selection Palm Springs International Shortfest 2025 Official Selection 37th Galway Film Fleadh 2025 Official Selection Leuven International Short Film Festival 2025

Synopsis

Two young Belfast boys try to catch a giant, mythical pike rumoured to live in their local pond. A coming-of-age drama about the transformative power of friendship and terrible monsters, both real and imagined.

Synopsis

Vic, a gentle custodian of a beautiful but vacant church, finds her peaceful routine disrupted when a property agent arrives to photograph the building for its impending sale. As she uncovers the unsettling truth about the new owners, Vic must confront the fate of the sacred space she holds dear. Guardian Angel is a drama about faith, loss, and the pain of facing a changing world. A slow-burn, atmospheric piece that allows the audience to breathe in the story in the silent spaces.

Synopsis

Eleven year old Francis is a devout atheist, just like his parents. But when his parents suddenly separate, Francis realises that his family life is moving further away from what he knows and loves. Alone and desperate for guidance, Francis takes refuge in the nearby woods where he encounters an unconventional mentor; a larger than life New York Gangster.