Once Upon a Time in a Cinema

Once Upon a Time in a Cinema is a drama about Earl Clancy, a cinema owner facing the potential collapse of his business. The story unfolds in real time on a busy Friday night, following Earl as he manages a series of disasters and personal struggles while dealing with a crowded audience. The events of the film take place simultaneously with the screening of another movie inside the theater.

Written and directed by David Gleeson, this production was a collaboration between Germany, Belgium, and Ireland. The film stars Colin Morgan in the lead role of Earl Clancy, supported by a cast that includes Calam Lynch, Clara Crichton, India Mullen, Niamh Cusack, and Stanley Townsend. The production involved a large team, with 111 credited cast members and 90 credited crew members. The project was produced by Judy Tossell and supported by production companies including Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, uMedia, Egoli Tossell Pictures, and Wide Eye Films. Released on May 1, 2026, the movie has a runtime of 92 minutes.