From Brazilian funk and blues-rock legends to traditional Irish music and live post-screening performances, the 71st Cork International Film Festival has plenty in store for music lovers this November.
A world premiere celebrating Joe Bonamassa honouring Rory Gallagher, a deep dive into Brazil’s underground funk scene and documentaries exploring the lives of distinctive Irish and international musicians are among the musical highlights of 71st Cork International Film Festival (12–22 November). Complemented by live performances and a post-screening afterparty, this year’s programme offers music fans the chance to discover the films bringing unforgettable sounds, stories and performances to the big screen.
- Brazilian funk meets Cork club culture: Funk brings Brazil’s baile funk scene to The Arc Cinema on Tuesday 17 November at 6.30pm. Directed by Aly Muritiba, the film follows queer funk artist MC Sabrina as she fights to protect her sound and identity. After the screening, Bellyman and RedFM’s Stevie G will revive their infamous Expansions club night from Sir Henry’s at the Funk Afterparty in Intermission @ The Pav, featuring baile funk, Latin, dancehall, reggae and hip hop.
- Celebrating Rory Gallagher’s legacy: The world premiere of Joe Bonamassa – The Spirit of Rory takes place at The Everyman on Wednesday 18 November. Featuring footage from Joe Bonamassa’s three sold-out Cork performances in 2025, rare archive material, and contributions from Brian May and Slash, the documentary honours the Irish blues legend in his hometown. A Q&A with Dónal Gallagher and a special guest follows.
- Celebrating Ireland’s musical heritage: Dord – A Film about Peadar Ó Riada (Scannán Faoi Pheadar Ó Riada) offers an intimate portrait of the composer, broadcaster and choir director, exploring his work in the Múscraí Gaeltacht and the legacy of his father, Seán Ó Riada. Screening at Triskel Cinema on Friday 20 November, the film is followed by a live musical performance from Peadar and a special guest.
- Music and resilience on screen: Congo Boy screens at MTU Cork School of Music on Friday 20 November. Directed by Rafiki Fariala, the award-winning film follows 17-year-old Congolese refugee Robert as he determinedly pursues his dream of becoming a musician while caring for his younger siblings. A live performance by Congolese-born Dublin musician Chris Kabs follows.
- A vibrant French queer musical: A Man’s Skin (Peau d’homme) screens at MTU Cork School of Music on Sunday 22 November at 5pm. Adapted from the acclaimed graphic novel by Hubert and Zanzim, this playful feminist musical follows a young woman who discovers a magical skin that allows her to transform into a man. Featuring French singer Pomme and Catherine Deneuve, the film celebrates identity, love and freedom. Presented in association with the French Embassy and Alliance Française de Cork.
With live performances, late-night celebrations and stories that span musical genres, the 71st Cork International Film Festival offers audiences plenty of reasons to turn up the volume this November.
For further information on the 71st Cork International Film Festival, visit corkfilmfest.org or the myCIFF app.
