Pre-Crime – February 27th, Lighthouse Cinema.

Pre-Crime is a documentary that examines the idea behind the Philip K Dick story Minority Report; a world where the police use algorithms to try and determine people who are likely to commit crimes. It asks the viewer to consider how much of our lives are already monitored electronically and is it ethical to allow police forces to use this information to preempt crime? Filmmakers Matthias Heeder and Monika Hielscher will be in attendance.

Lean on Pete – February 28th, Cineworld.

A young homeless boy from Oregon develops a close relationship with an unsuccessful race horse, and the pair embark on a trek across the Midwest of America. Directed by the sublime Andrew Haigh, who is known for his slow and beautifully heartfelt films, such as Weekend and 45 Years. Charlie Plummer has his breakout moment in the lead role, supported by big names like Steve Buscemi and Chloë Sevigny.

Mary Magdalene – February 28th, Savoy Cinema.

Based on the biblical story of Mary Magdalene, this is Garth Davis’ first film since the hugely successful Lion. The stellar cast includes Rooney Mara, Joaquin Phoenix and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Following a delay in the release of the film, it will finally have its world premiere at the festival and Garth Davis, Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara will all be in attendance.

Delinquent Season – March 3rd, Lighthouse Cinema.

Acclaimed Irish playwright Mark O’Rowe makes his directorial debut with this character driven domestic drama. It stars Irish acting powerhouses Cillian Murphy and Andrew Scott as the husbands of two Dublin couples whose relationships are tested. Mark O’Rowe will attend this screening.

My Friend Dahmer – March 4th, Cineworld.

My Friend Dahmer tells the story of notorious American serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer’s childhood and time in high school. The script is based on the graphic novel by a classmate of Dahmer’s, set in the early 1970s. Dahmer, played by former Disney star Ross Lynch, went on to kill 17 boys in the decades following the film’s setting. Writer and Director Mike Myers will be in attendance at this screening.

Surprise Film – Sunday March 4th, Odeon Point Village.

If you’re a fan of the Odeon’s monthly Screen Unseen or the IFI’s Mystery Matinees, this one is for you. Just as the name entails, this festival slot is designated for an unknown film. Festival staff boast that not even the projectionist knows what film will be shown until it begins. The Surprise Film has been a pillar of the festival since the it’s inception. Previous screenings include The Squid & The Whale, Muppets Most Wanted and Get Out.

Vanessa Redgrave interview – March 4th, The Gate.

Oscar winner Vanessa Redgrave will be presented with the Volta award, which is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to world cinema. Redgrave will be at ADIFF to present her new documentary Sea Sorrow, about the refugee crisis.


Muireann O’Shea – Film Editor