Cinema

27 & 29 Jul 2026

IFI@BrieryGap | Once Upon a Time in a Cinema

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When

27 & 29 Jul 2026

Time

8:00pm show start | Doors open from 7:30pm

Price
€12
€10 (accessible & OAP)

Cert 15A

Set over the course of one chaotic Friday night in 1984, Once Upon a Time in a Cinema follows Earl Clancy (Colin Morgan), the devoted owner of a struggling small-town Irish cinema fighting to keep both his beloved picture house and his family together.

As technical mishaps, financial troubles and unexpected visitors threaten to derail the evening, Earl must somehow keep the show on the road. Inspired by writer-director David Gleeson's own upbringing in a family of cinema owners, the film is a warm, nostalgic tribute to the magic of the big screen and the vital role local cinemas play at the heart of a community.

Praised as "a heartwarming love letter to cinemas" by RTÉ, the film has been celebrated for its authenticity, charm and affectionate recreation of Ireland's cinema-going past. Critics have highlighted Colin Morgan's central performance and the film's nostalgic appeal, with Screen International describing it as a treat for anyone who remembers the era before multiplexes. Film Ireland called it "a heart-warming nostalgic recreation of a time gone by."

Cert 15A | Films classified 15A have been deemed appropriate for viewers aged 15 and over. However, they can also be seen by younger children, provided they are accompanied by an adult who has deemed the film appropriate viewing for that child.

Film Club | Join our film club for free by picking up a card at the Box Office, and get your 10th film free.

Briery Gap Box Office Hours | Tuesday to Friday 10am-2pm, and one hour before all events.

Accessibility Seating | All events at Briery Gap are wheelchair accessible. Contact our Box Office at 083 143 6884, or email boxoffice@brierygap.ie.

OAP Tickets | Available at Box Office.

"

As technical disasters, unruly patrons, and family tensions mount, Earl must confront the uncertain future of his beloved single-screen theatre.

"

Credits
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