THE full programme for the 2026 Fastnet Film Festival was unveiled at a special launch event at The Crane Lane on Thursday, April 30th, with hospitality generously provided by Rising Sons Brewery and Benny and Cliona McCabe.
Screenwriter and director Gerry Stembridge opened proceedings, while Tom McCarthy served as Master of Ceremonies for the evening, guiding an engaging programme of filmmaker introductions, film clips, and lively discussion.
The acclaimed Fastnet Film Festival returns to Schull from Wednesday, May 20th to Sunday, May 24th, transforming the village into a vibrant hub for film and an opportunity for a bit of celebrity spotting.
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This year’s dynamic programme includes short and feature film screenings, masterclasses, workshops, live music, and industry events. Over 60 special guests are expected, including comic book cult icon Frank Miller, alongside a screening of Frank Miller: American Genius. Acclaimed Irish director John Crowley will present Brooklyn and Intermission, and take part in a Q&A with Lenny Abrahamson.
Additional highlights include Niamh Algar presenting Censor; Robert Sheehan with The Road Within; Molly Manning Walker with How to Have Sex; and Lance Daly presenting TRAD.
Éanna Hardwicke will attend a screening of Saipan, followed by a Q&A with directors Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn. David Wilmot will also appear for a post-screening discussion of Hokum.
Programme highlights include 123 competition short films across 27 one hour programmes, each free to attend and 19 feature screenings, many accompanied by Q&As.
A special live event celebrating the work of Oscar-winning composer Stephen Warbeck will take place at Holy Trinity Church, featuring performances by an ensemble of incredible musicians playing live to film
clips.
Festival favourites return, including the Fun Movie Quiz, Garden Cinema, networking events, and family-friendly activities at The Loft. A special panel will explore the final chapter of The Dry (Season 3), featuring writer Nancy Harris, executive producer Emma Norton, actor Pom Boyd, director Paddy Breathnach, and moderator Ed Guiney.
A strong industry focus underpins the programme, with masterclasses in colour grading, acting, animation, and pitching, alongside panels addressing AI in film, women in film, and disability representation on screen.
The festival will screen five free, outdoor family-friendly features over the weekend, along with a 90-minute local interest programme on Sunday 24th, open to all.
With a packed schedule of innovative films, inspiring masterclasses, and world-class guests, the 2026 Fastnet Film Festival promises a vibrant celebration of cinema.
Tickets go on sale at 9am on Monday, May 4th via the official website fastnetfilmfestival.com.
