Explosive start to 11th Dingle International Film Festival

The 11th Dingle Film Festival got off to an explosive start yesterday with the opening feature Free Fire from renowned director Ben Wheatley thrilling a captive audience in the Phoenix Cinema.
A refreshing reception served up courtesy of Dingle Distillery was enjoyed by all before director Wheatley and one of the stars of the film Jack Reynor introduced the film Free Fire to an eager auditorium.
What followed over the next ninety minutes was a rip roaring action thriller including some of the best one liners you'll hear in a movie this year as Wheatley's tale of a guns deal gone wrong had the audience on the edge of their seats recoiling in horror and cackling with laughter in equal measure. The film itself deserves a proper in depth review which will appear in this blog in the near future but suffice it to say, it is already one of my films of the year and a must see when it goes on general release.

The Q&A that followed led by the always articulate John Maguire was both informative and funny as Wheatley and Reynor shared interesting stories about the shoot and in the director's case,moviemaking in general. There was also the added incentive to anyone who asked a question in this session of a free Free Fire t-shirt which now has taken pride of place in my wardrobe!

After the Q&A the party continued in John Bennys Pub in Dingle for the first Festival Club Night.
All this incredible entertainment, insight and opportunity to rub shoulders with the top brass of the movie industry for the highly affordable price of €15!
The opening night of the Dingle International Festival was a testament to Maurice Galwey and all associated for their tireless work behind the scenes providing nights like last night for the viewing public.
I implore anyone that is in the area (or not so far away), - the sun is shining, Dingle town will look especially picturesque and another day and evening of cinematic entertainment awaits, so what are you waiting for? Make your way back west for the Dingle International Film Festival as soon as you can! You will not be disappointed!