Docs Ireland and Film Hub NI take acclaimed Edna O’Brien documentary on tour across Northern Ireland
Docs Ireland and Film Hub NI’s Collective initiative are proud to present a special regional tour of Blue Road – The Edna O’Brien Story, bringing one of the most critically acclaimed Irish documentaries of recent years to 11 venues across Northern Ireland in June.
Following a hugely successful 17-week run at Queen’s Film Theatre in Belfast, this powerful and intimate portrait of legendary Irish writer Edna O’Brien will now be available to cinema audiences from Rathfriland to Enniskillen, as part of a continued commitment to celebrating Irish voices and expanding access to outstanding documentary.
Blue Road – The Edna O’Brien Story is directed by Sinéad O’Shea (Pray for Our Sinners) and offers an unflinching look at the life of one of Ireland’s most ground-breaking and controversial literary figures. In her final interviews before her death in 2024, O’Brien reflects on her life, sharing deeply personal insights through candid conversations and excerpts from her private diaries, which are brought to life by Oscar-nominated actress Jessie Buckley (Wicked Little Letters).
O’Brien’s journey from rural Ireland to international literary acclaim is one marked by rebellion, passion, and resilience. Her early novels, deemed scandalous at the time, were banned and even burned in Ireland, yet she persevered to become one of the most respected writers of her generation. Blue Road captures the complexity and brilliance of a woman who lived boldly and left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.
This NI-wide tour forms part of Film Hub NI’s Collective initiative, supported by the British Film Institute’s National Lottery funding. Collective is designed to support community cinemas, film clubs, and venues in bringing distinctive and important stories to local audiences.
Screenings will take place at the following venues throughout June:
- The School House Cinema Club, Hilltown – Sunday 1 June
- Banbridge Community Cinema – Monday 2 June & Wednesday 11th June
- Ormeau Community Cinema, Belfast – Wednesday 4 June
- Court House, Bangor – Thursday 5 June
- Portrush Film Theatre – Thursday 5 June
- Braid Film Theatre, Ballymena – Saturday 7 June
- Flowerfield Arts Centre, Portstewart – Thursday 12 June
- Moneydarragh Community Hub – Thursday 12 June
- Newcastle Community Cinema – Saturday 14 June
- Down Arts Centre – Thursday 19 June
- Fermanagh Film Club – Tuesday 24 June
With its poignant storytelling, intimate access, and cultural relevance, Blue Road – The Edna O’Brien Story is an essential watch for anyone interested in Irish literature, women’s history, and the power of the written word.
Grab your tickets soon, as this tour will sell out!
For more information on this tour or the Collective project, contact Sara.