Galway Film Fleadh 2026: Films That Reflect Our Times
There is a quiet power in the stories we choose to tell about ourselves. The 38th Galway Film Fleadh, running from July 7th to 12th, offers a window into the narratives that shape our collective conscience. Charlene Lydon, the new programmer, has curated a selection that speaks deeply to the civic and the personal. As tickets are already selling out, here are the essential films that demand our attention.
Which films tackle wealth, justice, and social change?
What is All About The Money about?
Sinead O'Shea follows her successful Blue Road: The Edna O'Brien Story with a sharp examination of capitalism. All About The Money tracks anti-capitalist billionaire Fergie Chambers as he attempts to establish a communist collective in rural Massachusetts. This Sundance hit offers a rigorous look at the inevitability of inequality when wealth is so unevenly distributed.
What is Coco's Law?
Jackie Fox, an Irish mother, took her fight all the way to the European Parliament after the tragic death of her daughter due to cyber-bullying. Coco's Law is a powerful documentary about a mother's push for legislative change that impacted millions, highlighting the vital role of European institutions in protecting citizens.
What is The Last First: Winter K2 about?
Academy Award nominated filmmaker Amir Bar-Lev explores the ethics of extreme sports commercialization. The documentary follows an ambitious winter expedition where wealthy adventurers and influencers join experienced mountaineers. Their lack of experience results in tragedy, offering a stark critique of commodified ambition.
What is Magilligan about?
Ross McClean's debut feature documentary is a compassionate look at a young man adjusting to life outside prison. He finds solace and focus tending sheep in a community scheme. Magilligan is a powerful character study about the complexities of finding a new path after the rigid hand of the state.
Which films explore Irish history and community?
What is Faraway Home about?
Terry Loane adapts Marilyn Taylor's beloved novel about two Jewish children fleeing Austria in WWII who arrive at a refugee farm in Belfast. Thousands of miles from their family, they find kinship with their new hosts and fellow refugees. Beautifully shot and warm-hearted, it is a testament to the hospitality owed to those seeking shelter on this island.
What is The S.U. about?
This uplifting documentary looks back at the history of the University of Galway's Student's Union, an institution once led by Michael D Higgins. Following the current leadership over two years, it paints a bright and hopeful picture of what progressive political leadership might look like in the future.
What is Our House about?
Peter Young's wildly entertaining debut opens the Fleadh. It is a domestic thriller about a family torn apart when their mother's will reveals surprises. Darkly funny and with plenty to say about modern Ireland, it is a hugely impressive reflection on inheritance and secrets.
What genre films and premieres are screening?
What is Feed about?
Part of the What The Fleadh?! strand, the festival hosts the World Premiere of Irish horror film Feed. It follows a group of mismatched influencer friends who accidentally awaken the ancient vampire Dearg Due. The film features an exciting ensemble of new Irish actors.
What is Murphy Vs. Christmas about?
Photographer Eoin Murphy refuses to lie to his child to preserve the most sacred of Christmas secrets, landing him in a feud with his daughters' school and in court. It is a sharp, satirical look at the battle between an overly commercialized holiday and the desire to protect a child's magic.
What is Our Hero Balthazar about?
Oscar Boyson's pitch black debut follows a wealthy, disillusioned New York teenager, played by Jaeden Martell, who tries to stop a potential school shooter, played by Asa Butterfield. When they meet, they form a strange bond fraught with tension as the realities of their different backgrounds become clear.
What is Maddie's Secret about?
Writer-director John Early stars as Maddie, a likeable food influencer with a dark secret. This utterly unique comic melodrama strikes a strange balance of high camp and sincere tragedy that must be seen to be believed.
What special events are happening at the Fleadh?
How is The Young Offenders celebrating its 10th anniversary?
This special 10-year anniversary event reunites cast members Chris Walley, Alex Murphy, and Hilary Rose with writer-director Peter Foott. They will join an intimate audience for a once-off audio-commentary event, watching the film while regaling the crowd with behind-the-scenes stories of the making of this modern Irish classic.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Galway Film Fleadh 2026
When does the 38th Galway Film Fleadh take place?
The festival runs from Tuesday, July 7th to Sunday, July 12th, 2026.
Who is the new programmer for the Galway Film Fleadh?
Charlene Lydon has taken over as the Fleadh's new programmer for this year's edition.
Which film at the Fleadh focuses on EU legislation against cyber-bullying?
Coco's Law follows Jackie Fox's campaign to the European Parliament to criminalise online bullying after her daughter's death.