The Dinner (La Cena)
In this biting comedy set on April 15th, 1939, just two weeks after the end of the Spanish Civil War, Franco invites his top generals for a night of triumph in the iconic and luxurious Hotel Palace in Madrid. Everything must be perfect; especially the food served. But in the hotel’s kitchen, the chefs preparing the meal is a group of defeated Republican, secretly “borrowed” for the occasion from the death row. After tonight, they will go back to their bleak fate. So they get busy cooking up something else than bouillabaisse and sauces: their last chance to escape the country.
The darkest days of Spain’s history as a backdrop for a lighthearted gastronomical farce? Why not! One should never waste an opportunity to remind ourselves of major historical events, which are, like the film’s lieutenant’s happier, food-related memories, not that far away.
Event: Resistance Gathering | Plugd, 3 Cornmarket St, Centre, Cork | 20:00
Get cosy with your comrades over a bowl of something warm and a glass of something cool at our rebel retreat hosted by Brian’s Wines at Plugd. Raise a glass to the republic and fill your rebel reserves to the brim in the best of company.
Cork International Film Festival is delighted to return to its Principal Venue, The Arc Cinema on North Main St, Cork, for its 70th Festival edition, Thursday 6th to Sunday 16th November 2025.
The Arc Cinema Cork is home to The GATE Screen — a space dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of the beloved former Gate Cinema — and an ideal spot for meeting fellow festival goers in between screenings. The GATE Screen features luxurious double sofa seats and tables, creating an intimate and sophisticated viewing experience. It is dedicated to showcasing arthouse films, including independent and local productions, foreign and Irish language titles throughout the year.
