Limerick film festival postponed due to 'financial constraints'

Despite what it described as a 'setback', the team behind the Richard Harris International Film Festival is exploring all options to continue the event

Richard Harris International Film Festival director Zeb Moore in Limerick photographed at the statue of the famed actor in Bedford Row. Picture: Liam Burke/Press 22

The Richard Harris International Film Festival in Limerick has had to be postponed due to “financial constraints”.

The 12th edition of the festival, which showcases independent filmmakers, was due to take place from October 23-28.

But despite “extensive efforts”, the festival has not secured the necessary funding from national and local agencies — and has been postponed until early spring 2025.

The festival did not secure any State funding in 2023 or 2024, which put a strain on resources. Despite what it described as a "setback", the team behind the festival is exploring all options to continue the event.

Festival director Zeb Moore said: "We are deeply disappointed to have to temporarily postpone this year's festival. However, it is not a cancellation, and we are determined to find a way forward and ensure that RHIFF [the film festival] continues to be a beacon for filmmakers and audiences alike. 

"We believe in the power of cinema to bring people together, and we will do everything in our power to return stronger in the near future."

Festival chairman Rob Gill said the organisers would continue to engage positively with local and national agencies, with the office of Limerick mayor, John Moran, as well as with potential commercial sponsors. 

"As we’ve frequently said, it is critically important that festivals in the region collaborate and co-ordinate with one another in terms of scheduling, to maximise and not cannibalise audiences," he said. 

"It is true that many festivals — particularly volunteer-led festivals run on a part-time basis — are struggling to be sustainable, and the issues we face are not unique to us. 

"Additionally, the film festival model specifically has been seriously disrupted over the last number of years and the old festival model is unlikely to be viable in the future, which is why we have always attempted to innovate adding a trial interactive tech element to the festival in 2019."

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Over the past 12 years, the Richard Harris International Film Festival has grown into one of Ireland's premier film festivals, showcasing more than 1,000 films, including Irish and international features, shorts, documentaries, and animation.

From 2017 to 2019, the festival was selected by the Department of Foreign Affairs to represent Ireland at the Global Irish Festival Series.

The festival has been recognised for its programming, which includes special tributes to the legendary actor Richard Harris, workshops, and panels that offer insights into the world of cinema. Last year, actor Jamie Dornan was honoured by the festival for "outstanding talent". 

All filmmakers who have submitted to date remain in competition and are eligible for this year's edition. New entries will not be accepted after the official closing date, on October 1.