From Belfast to Hollywood: 'Belfast' movie premiere

Event Overview

On Thursday 04 November 2021, ICC Belfast | Waterfront Hall rolled out the red carpets in preparation for the movie premiere of the year.

Excitement filled the air as journalists and fans took their place beside the carpet, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star-studded cast arriving at Belfast’s iconic entertainment and conferencing venue.

The premiere, co-hosted by Northern Ireland Screen and Belfast Film Festival, welcomed the famous cast for an evening of entertainment including Northern Ireland’s own Sir Kenneth Branagh, Jamie Dornan and Ciarán Hinds alongside Caitríona Balfe and 10-year-old Jude Hill.

It was one of the best nights of my life. We had family and some of my best mates there. And 1,400 people from Belfast, so it was a special night. Yeah, it was class.

Jamie Dornan,

Upon entering the auditorium and taking their seats, the audience was greeted by Sir Kenneth Branagh, who took to the stage to introduce his award-winning tribute to growing up in Belfast.

A poignant story of love, laughter and loss in one boy’s childhood, amid the social and political tumult of the late 1960s, the film offers a nostalgic view on Kenneth's experience of growing up in Northern Ireland.

Once he [Jamie Dornan] walked the red carpet, took his place inside Waterfront Hall and began watching the movie, things changed. The audience hung on every word, and the energy was electric.

New York Times, November 2021,

Since the premiere, the film has gone on to receive global award recognition, winning the Golden Globe for Best Screenplay and the AFI [American Film Institute] Special Award. 

The movie has also gained six BAFTA nominations and seven Oscar nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director. Speaking about the Oscar nominations, Sir Kenneth Branagh said,

A friend of mine texted me and said he was in a café in Belfast, just as the nominations were being announced...when we got the best picture nomination, the entire place erupted. So I think the Academy has started quite the party in Belfast.

Kenneth Branagh,

'Belfast' is screening in cinemas across the UK and Ireland. Tune in and support the movie and cast at the upcoming BAFTAs on 13 March 2022 and Oscars on 27 March 2022.