Nîmes, France – The 29th edition of the Festival des Écrans Britanniques et Irlandais (Festival of British and Irish Screens) is set to illuminate the city from March 13th to 22nd, 2026, bringing a diverse selection of cinema from the United Kingdom and Ireland to audiences in the south of France. The festival, a long-standing cultural event in Nîmes, will showcase approximately thirty films spanning 120 years of cinematic history, including ten films never before screened in France and three with French subtitles. The festival’s official website provides further details.
This year’s festival promises a particularly exciting lineup, featuring ten films making their French debut, three of which will be presented with French subtitles, enhancing accessibility for a wider audience. Alongside these new offerings, the festival will also present three premiere screenings, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event. A significant draw for film enthusiasts will be the presence of acclaimed Irish director Jim Sheridan, known for his powerful and critically acclaimed films such as My Left Foot, In the Name of the Father, and The Boxer. Sheridan will be on hand to present his work and engage in discussions with attendees. The festival aims to immerse the city in British and Irish culture, with decorations and events planned throughout Nîmes.
A Celebration of British and Irish Cinema
The Festival des Écrans Britanniques et Irlandais has become a cornerstone of Nîmes’ cultural calendar, attracting both seasoned cinephiles and newcomers to British and Irish filmmaking. Established nearly three decades ago, the festival consistently draws prominent figures from the anglophone film industry. As reported by Vivrenimes.fr, the 29th edition will be held at the Le Sémaphore cinema and the Carré d’Art library.
This year’s program boasts a broad spectrum of genres, from documentaries and thrillers to classic films and even horror, offering something for every taste. The festival will screen a total of thirty films, with sixteen being shown in France for the highly first time. Beyond the screenings, attendees can look forward to masterclasses led by industry experts, a unique ciné-concert experience, and numerous opportunities for dialogue and exchange. Bernard Raynaud, the festival’s president, emphasized the festival’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of cinematic works, blending retrospectives, tributes, current releases, and premiere screenings.
Distinguished Guests and Industry Professionals
The festival isn’t just a showcase for films; it’s also a gathering of prominent figures in the world of cinema. Joining Jim Sheridan will be a host of guests, including Chris Auty, director of the London Film School; Julian Colling, a journalist; Quentin Falk, a film historian; Cécile Farkas, director of Doriane film; Virgile Goller, a musician and composer; Fiona Handyside, a university professor; Margo Harkin, a director; Barbara Gouget, conservator at the Musée des Beaux-arts de Nîmes; Jean Jalbert, director of the Domaine La Tour du Valat; Damian McCann, a director; Sarah MacDonald, a producer; Ruán Magan, a director; and Jack Thornton, Paul Andrew Williams, and other filmmakers. These guests will contribute to the festival’s rich program of discussions and masterclasses, offering valuable insights into the art of filmmaking.
Damian McCann will be presenting his film on Saturday, March 21st, at 8:30 PM at Le Sémaphore, as noted on the festival’s official Facebook page. The presence of such a diverse group of industry professionals underscores the festival’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the cinematic community.
Beyond the Screen: A City-Wide Celebration
The Festival des Écrans Britanniques et Irlandais extends beyond the confines of the cinemas and libraries, aiming to transform Nîmes into a vibrant hub of British and Irish culture. In collaboration with local businesses and the city council, the festival will orchestrate a series of events designed to immerse residents and visitors in the atmosphere of the United Kingdom and Ireland. These include the display of British and Irish flags and decorations in shop windows, and an animation event scheduled for March 7th in the Halles from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the allée du Girofle. These initiatives aim to create a festive and welcoming environment for all.
The festival’s organizers have worked closely with local associations to ensure a seamless integration of the event into the fabric of the city. This collaborative approach reflects a commitment to community engagement and a desire to share the richness of British and Irish culture with the people of Nîmes. The festival’s success is not only measured by the number of attendees but also by its ability to foster a sense of cultural exchange and appreciation.
Featured Film: “I Swear”
One film generating particular buzz is I Swear, which will have its premiere screening at the festival on Saturday, March 14th, at 8:45 PM at Le Sémaphore. This film promises to be a highlight of the festival, offering audiences a glimpse into contemporary British cinema. The inclusion of premiere screenings like I Swear demonstrates the festival’s dedication to showcasing cutting-edge filmmaking and providing a platform for emerging talent.
The 29th edition of the Festival des Écrans Britanniques et Irlandais is poised to be a significant cultural event for Nîmes, attracting film lovers and industry professionals alike. With a diverse program, distinguished guests, and a city-wide celebration, the festival promises a memorable experience for all who attend. The festival’s continued success is a testament to the enduring appeal of British and Irish cinema and the commitment of the organizers to fostering cultural exchange.
The next key date for those interested in the festival is March 7th, with the animation event in the Halles. Further details about the full program and ticket availability can be found on the festival’s official website. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with the festival in the comments below.
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