Clio Barnard's "I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning" Set for UK Release

Acclaimed filmmaker Clio Barnard, who grew up in Otley, returns with her latest feature I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning. Barnard is best known for a body of work closely associated with Yorkshire, including the Bradford-set films The Arbor, The Selfish Giant and Ali & Ava, as well as the Yorkshire farming drama Dark River. Fresh from presenting the film at this year's Cannes Film Festival, her latest feature is due for UK release later this year.

Storyline and Themes

I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning is based on the novel of the same name by Keiran Goddard and features a screenplay written by Enda Walsh. The film revolves around five friends—Patrick, Shiv, Rian, Oli, and Conor—who grew up together, sharing dreams and aspirations. As they reach their thirties, they find that life has not unfolded as they had hoped. Their journeys highlight the complexities of friendship, love, and the harsh realities of adulthood.

• Patrick (played by Anthony Boyle) and Shiv (Lola Petticrew) are in love, but an old secret threatens to disrupt their relationship.

• Oli (Jay Lycurgo), once the life of the party, is struggling with his lifestyle choices.

• Conor (Daryl McCormack) faces the challenges of impending fatherhood and a new business venture.

• Rian (Joe Cole) appears to have escaped their hometown, but his success in another city does not shield him from the past.

The film explores what happens when the dreams and expectations of youth collide with the reality of adult life, examining how places and circumstances shape individuals. It delves into the beauty of friendship, even amidst difficult times, and the limits of hope.

Director and Writers' Background

Clio Barnard has made a name for herself as one of the UK's most distinctive voices in cinema. Her debut feature, The Arbor, received critical acclaim and numerous awards upon its release in 2010. Following that, The Selfish Giant, which tells the story of two working-class boys in Bradford, won the British Film of the Year at the London Critics Circle Film Awards. Barnard's films often highlight social issues and human emotions, making her a significant figure in contemporary British cinema.

Enda Walsh, the writer behind the screenplay, is a Tony and multi-award-winning playwright and screenwriter. His works, such as Hunger and Small Things Like These, have garnered international recognition, showcasing his ability to convey deep and complex narratives.

Cast Highlights

The film features an exciting ensemble cast that includes:

• Anthony Boyle as Patrick

• Joe Cole as Rian

• Jay Lycurgo as Oli

• Daryl McCormack as Conor

• Lola Petticrew as Shiv

• Millie Brady, Lucie Shorthouse, and James Eeles in supporting roles

Each actor brings their unique talents to the film, promising a compelling portrayal of the struggles and triumphs faced by the characters.

Production Details

The film is produced by Tracy O’Riordan, who has collaborated with Clio Barnard on several projects, including Alice & Jack and Dark River. The production was developed with the support of BBC Film and is co-financed by the BFI, which is known for funding projects that promote British cinema. Curzon Film will handle the UK distribution, ensuring that I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning reaches a wide audience.

As anticipation builds for its release, the film is expected to spark conversations about the challenges of growing up and the importance of friendship in navigating life's ups and downs.