An observational documentary set in post-conflict Ardoyne, Belfast, where a marginalized, working-class community has for generations been plagued by poverty, drugs and guns. This film charts the dream of Headmaster Kevin McArevey and his dedicated, visionary team illustrating how critical thinking and pastoral care can empower and encourage children to see beyond the borders and limitations of their own community. We see how philosophy can encourage them to question the mythologies of war and of violence, and sometimes challenge the narratives their parents, peers and socio-economic group could dictate.
Director's Biography
Neasa Ní Chianáín, is one of Ireland’s most established documentary directors. Neasa trained at the National College of Art & Design in Dublin and worked as a freelance Art Director on Irish feature film and television projects, before switching to documentaries in 2001. She has directed nine documentaries (4 feature films) and one tv series. Her previous film, “In Loco Parentis” (aka “School Life”), has been a world-wide success, premiering in competition at both IDFA 2016 and Sundance 2017. “School Life” won the Special Jury Prize in the Golden Gate Awards at the San Francisco International Film Festival and an Audience Award (Prix du Public) at Visions du Réel in Nyon.
Declan McGrath produced and directed “Lomax in Éirinn” (2018, TG4) which premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh in July 2018 and was screened at the IFI as part of its Ireland on Screen series. It was nominated for Best Arts Documentary at the 2019 Celtic Media Festival awards. Declan also directed the series “Seinn Liom” (2014) and “Cad É An Scéal” (2013) for BBCNI. He has worked as an editor for over twenty-five years, directing numerous award-winning dramas and documentaries.