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03 Apr 2026
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03 Apr 2026
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Hollywood director John Moore with actor Bruce Willis. John will be jetting in from LA for the festival
The Louth International Film Festival is set to run from September 27 to 29, showcasing an impressive array of films, discussions, and special guests in the IMC Cinema and An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk.
Presented by the Louth Filmmakers Society in collaboration with An Táin Arts Centre and DkIT., the festival is entirely operated by dedicated volunteers, whose passion and commitment make it possible. With a fantastic lineup of films, special guest appearances, and new awards, this year’s Louth International Film Festival promises to be a celebration of cinema, creativity, and community.
The organisers say that they are thrilled to announce that Dundalk native and Hollywood director John Moore will jet in from LA to open the Louth International Film Festival 2024. John will join the hosts for a special Q&A session at IMC Cinema Dundalk on Friday September 27 at 5:20 PM, followed by the 20th Anniversary Screening of his critically acclaimed film Flight of the Phoenix at 6:30 PM. This is a can’t-miss event, so be sure to get your tickets now!
John had this to say about the 5th anniversary of the festival: “The Louth Film Festival is growing, and we need it to grow, and we need help to make it grow. I’m so proud that my home county is making such a marvelous festival happen; they’re offering a wonderful alternative to just absorbing the endless torrent of content that floods us now from streaming.
"Instead, they’re reminding us of what movies are about: see them together, see them in a dark room, let them be special, and let the experience actually mean something—not just another swipe or scroll. It’s a source of pride for me, simple as that, and I’m beyond flattered that they’re screening one of my movies as part of that.
"Flight of the Phoenixis 20 years old, almost to the day, and so it’s really a joy to see it screen in my hometown after all these years.”
All Film & TV students will attend on Friday, September 27, at IMC Cinema as part of a Student Day to meet industry practitioners, watch award-winning shorts, meet John Moore, and understand the importance of attending film festivals as part of their studies. All DkIT students have free access to the full festival schedule across the three days. Present student ID for free entry.
As well as the exciting opening day events, there are a host of other screenings and talks that must be seen, as well as some exciting awards in the awards ceremony. Here is just a snapshot of some of the activities and events taking place.
Exciting Saturday Screening: Notes from Sheepland
On Saturday, September 28, at 1:50 PM at An Táin Arts Centre, join the hosts for a screening of Notes from Sheepland, a captivating documentary directed by Cara Holmes, an accomplished filmmaker from Blackrock.
This film chronicles the fascinating life of Orla Barry, an artist and sheep farmer, as she navigates the intersection of her dual passions—art and eco-farming. Don't miss this award-winning documentary that took home Best Documentary at the Dublin International Film Festival 2023. Watch the trailer here.
Closing Film & Q&A with Director Terry McMahon
On Sunday, September 29, at 6.15 PM in An Táin Arts Centre, Screen 1, the highly anticipated screening of The Kiss of Death will take place.
This powerful film tells the story of Tony, a teacher in northern Nigeria, whose life-saving intervention with a student leads to unintended consequences. The screening will be followed by an engaging Q&A with Director Terry McMahon, a celebrated Irish filmmaker known for his bold narratives and thought-provoking films such as Charlie Casanova and Patrick's Day.
New Award Announcement: The Fred Dekker Award for Best Student Film
The organisers say they are thrilled to announce that Fred Dekker, the acclaimed writer, director, and producer behind The Monster Squad and Night of the Creeps, will present the Fred Dekker Award for Best Student Film at this year’s festival.
One-Armed Wonder: The Extraordinary Story of Jimmy Hasty
A must-see for football fans, the Emmy-winning documentary One-Armed Wonder: The Extraordinary Story of Jimmy Hasty will be screened on Saturday, September 28, 1.50pm at An Táin Arts Centre. This remarkable film follows the life of Jimmy Hasty, a one-armed footballer who defied all odds to play for Dundalk FC and make history. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers and Dundalk FC Press Officer Gavin McLaughlin.
Honoring Cinematic Excellence: The Seamus McGarvey Award for Best Cinematography
The Seamus McGarvey Award for Best Cinematography returns this year. Named after the acclaimed Northern Irish cinematographer behind films such as Atonement and The Avengers, this award recognizes outstanding visual storytelling.
The Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director
Louth Filmmakers Society say they are honoured to present the Dearbhla Walsh Award for Best Director again this year. Walsh, a distinguished Irish director known for her work on Fargo and The Handmaid's Tale, is a key patron of our festival, bringing invaluable insight and support to the emerging talent we strive to showcase.
Introducing the Best in Louth Award, Presented by John Moore
In a nod to our local roots, the Best in Louth Award will be presented by none other than John Moore himself.
The full Louth International Film Festival 2024 Schedule is as follows:
Friday, September 27: IMC Cinema Dundalk:
Saturday, September 28: An Táin Arts Centre Dundalk Screen 1:
An Táin Arts Centre Dundalk Screen 2:
Sunday, September 29: An Táin Arts Centre Dundalk Screen 1:
An Táin Arts Centre Dundalk Screen 2:
Get your tickets for the events here.
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