On June 2nd, we kicked off our new cinema cycle “Green on the Screen” (in partnership with Associação Luso-Britânica do Porto) with the film The Wind That Shakes the Barley (2006), directed by Ken Loach. We were warmly welcomed by Casa Comum for this first screening, which was kindly introduced by Professor Mick Greer from the University of Lisbon via video recording. In his introduction, Professor Greer provided pertinent insights about not only Ken Loach’s career as a director, but also about the subject matters that are depicted in The Wind That Shakes the Barley. From the title of the film (originated from a traditional folk song) to an explanation of the film's historical context (the war fought between the IRA and British forces in the 1920’s), Professor Greer’s introduction prepared the audience so they could watch the film with a more attentive and informed eye.

We are grateful to Casa Comum for their collaboration and hosting of this session, and we are also thankful to all those in attendance. This was the first instalment of a three-film cinema cycle, so keep an eye out for the next two sessions, which will take place on June 16th and 25th, with the films In the Name of the Father (1993), directed by Jim Sheridan, and Kneecap (2024), directed by Rich Peppiatt, both sessions taking place at FLUP. We hope to see you there!