The documentary film “Celtic Utopia” by directing duo Dennis Harvey and Lars Lovén tells the story of a new Ireland and its vibrant music scene, while also exploring a postcolonial society struggling with its heritage. On the centenary of Irish state independence, the film follows a bold new generation of young Irish artists who are redefining folk music and reflecting on the impact of their colonial history. The renaissance of Irish traditional music features artists from punk, hip-hop, and beyond, who rediscover ancient traditions and take them in unexpected directions.
“Celtic Utopia” will have its Croatian premiere on May 24th at the 19th edition of the Subversive Film Festival, attended by director Lars Lovén. Following the premiere, the film will be screened in cinemas across the country through Restart Label distribution. The screening schedule for the film’s theatrical release can be followed at https://restarted.hr/label/keltska-utopija/
In “Celtic Utopia”, brave, open-minded, and witty young musicians gradually take over the narrative of the film, passing it from one to another much like musicians passing along a melody during a traditional music session. Through their music, they tell the story of one hundred years of a country that has undergone major social, political, and economic changes. Archival footage connects the present moment with Ireland’s troubled past, creating a rich portrait of an island confronting its first 100 years of partial independence. Some of the Irish musicians featured in the film include The Mary Wallopers, The Deadlians, Poor Creature, Negro Impacto, and Lankum.
“Celtic Utopia” had its world premiere at the renowned Locarno Film Festival, where it won the Critics’ Week Award. In addition to this recognition, the film also received the Audience Award for Best Documentary at the Leeds International Film Festival, as well as a Special Mention at the Cork International Film Festival.
