LORD DAVID PUTTNAM
PATRON
I truly believe that film is a force for good, and that powerful stories, well told, have the ability to speak to us all and create a positive impact on all our lives. Cinema can transport us to other worlds, spark new conversations, and inspire action and change, and film festivals are uniquely special places that bring us together to experience the extraordinary and the ordinary, collectively. The 68th edition is bursting with films that encourage us to reimagine the world, to discover and share new experiences. I am extremely proud to represent Cork International Film Festival as its Patron and I warmly encourage you to explore this year’s wonderfully exciting programme.
CLLR. KIERAN McCARTHY
ARDMHÉARA CHORCAÍ – LORD MAYOR OF CORK
Cork City Council is very proud to support Cork International Film Festival, one of the oldest festivals in the world, and a unique marker of the cultural heritage of our richly diverse city. Film provides a lens through which our social and cultural histories are viewed and new experiences and memories are formed.
As the city’s First Citizen, I am delighted to encourage both Corkonians and visitors to Cork to explore the city, its heritage and continuous reinvention, through the Festival programme. I hope you will join me on my Film and Heritage Walking Tours along the Festival’s Cork Film Trail, and immerse yourself in the wide range of films that offer something enjoyable and memorable for everyone.
BARNEY WHELAN
CHAIR OF THE BOARD
Welcome to Cork International Film Festival, the heart and soul of our vibrant city’s cinematic celebration. Much more than a display of exceptional films, the Festival is a testament to the city’s enduring passion for storytelling, culture, and community. Proudly, the Festival stands as a beacon of inclusion and sustainability. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, we want to inspire our audiences to think globally and act locally. We believe in the power of diverse voices, and strive to ensure that our platform showcases a spectrum of perspectives, and fosters an environment where all voices can be heard, appreciated, and celebrated. Thank you for joining us on this cinematic journey – let the stories begin!