Irish documentary Pray For Our Sinners to be released in cinemas 21st April
Posted: 26th January 2023
We are delighted to share Break Out Pictures's announcement of the theatrical release of Sinéad O’Shea’s award-winning festival favourite Pray For Our Sinners, in cinemas from 21st April.
Pray for Our Sinners documents Sinéad’s return to her hometown in Navan in search of those who fought against the Catholic Church and discovers the ways in which local people found a way to resist. It is a film of unexpected twists as it chooses to shine a light on those who attempted to stand up to the church in a quiet but deeply moving resistance.
The Irish documentary is not a straightforward narrative of sinners and victims. The story which emerges is a nuanced account of Catholicism and its role in Irish life. It focuses on the tradition of silence in Ireland and how difficult it has been for the people from Sinéad’s hometown to articulate the suffering they endured. It is only through old friendships and neighbourly connections that we hear previously untold testimonies from mother and baby homes, and stories from within school classrooms about corporal punishment. By taking such a personal approach, Sinéad has crafted a fresh account of how Catholicism wielded such power in Ireland since it gained independence. Through the voices of its gently heroic characters, Pray for Our Sinners depicts a society full of love, hope and understanding. As the film says, “There is always a way to resist.”
Speaking on the upcoming release Director O’Shea commented:
I am very proud to be sharing these stories of resilience and resistance. I hope they provide insights into Irish life and draw attention to the continuing issues caused by the relationship between Church and State here."
Additionally, BreakOut Pictures released today new artwork and a first trailer for the film. The trailer is available to watch below:
Pray for Our Sinners is directed by Sinéad O’Shea, produced by Sinéad O’Shea and Maya Derrington with Katie Holly serving as executive producer. The film received its World Premiere last year at the 47th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and went on to win several awards on its run across the US, including the Best Documentary awards at the Hamptons International Film Festival and Chicago International Film Festival. The film is proudly supported by Screen Ireland.