A feature film shot entirely in Limerick’s Theatre Royal Cinema has been selected to open the 2026 Dublin International Film Festival.
Once Upon a Time in a Cinema, starring Colin Morgan (Merlin, The Fall), will launch the prestigious festival on 19th February, marking a significant milestone for Limerick’s growing film industry.
The feel-good production, directed by acclaimed Limerick writer/director David Gleeson, was filmed entirely in the iconic former Royal Cinema in Limerick City last year, helping to breathe new life into the once-bustling venue.
Set in 1980s Ireland, the film follows Morgan as a small-town cinema manager struggling to maintain order during a chaotic Friday night. The production serves as a loving tribute to the cinema experience and draws on three generations of Gleeson’s family experiences in the industry.
Gleeson, who grew up in the cinema business in Cappamore, Co. Limerick, previously directed Cowboys and Angels in 2003—the first feature film shot entirely in Limerick City. More than 20 years later, his latest work represents a homecoming to where his filmmaking journey began.
“The cinema has profoundly shaped my life, and this film reflects three generations of my family’s experiences,” Gleeson said. “Anyone with fond memories of going to the pictures will find something to laugh or cry about in this film.”
Regional Film Manager, Paul C. Ryan from Innovate Limerick / Film in Limerick commented:“How fantastic for ‘Once Upon a Time in a Cinema’ to be chosen to open the 2026 Dublin International Film Festival. I’m so excited to see the film and to see it play in Limerick later in the year. We had a wonderful time working with the producers and crew and how wonderful that it was filmed in the Royal Cinema, a palace of special memories for so many people. We are so grateful for all the help we have received from the City to bring this production to Limerick and especially all the support from Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board who have helped us at every stage to make this production a reality. Hopefully we will see it screened in the Royal Cinema in the near future too.”
Mayor of Limerick John Moran commenting on the production made in Limerick, said:
“We are delighted to see another production made in the region reach the big screen and we look forward to seeing the film screen in Limerick, once it completes its festival run. I am pleased to see our creative industries, particularly in film and TV production, continue to thrive. It is especially exciting to see the release of a feature film that was filmed in the Theatre Royal building, where the Mayoral Fund supported initial renovation work that was delivered through Limerick Twenty Thirty last year. We will continue to work hard to bring the building back into more regular use and I look forward to welcoming more big and small screen productions to Limerick.”
Príomh Chomhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr. Catherine Slattery described the production as a fantastic showcase of Limerick talent:
“Having a Limerick-made film open the Dublin International Film Festival is a fantastic showcase of our talent in Limerick.”
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr. Pat Daly added:
“This is a proud moment for Limerick and a strong endorsement of the county as a worldclass place to make film. Productions like this demonstrate the depth of local talent, our unique locations, and the momentum behind Limerick as a leading hub for the film industry.”
The production also stars Calam Lynch, Niamh Cusack, and India Mullen.
The film will screen in Limerick in the near future following its festival run.