Past screening

The 8th

Directed by: Aideen Kane, Lucy Kennedy, Maeve O'Boyle
Runtime: 1hr 34min Year: 2020
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Details

Directed by: Aideen Kane, Lucy Kennedy, Maeve O'Boyle
Runtime: 1hr 34min Year: 2020
Country: Ireland
Topics: Sociopolitical
Last Screened: Sun 20th Jun 2021

The 8th amendment of the Irish constitution effectively banned abortion. This is the story of the fight to repeal that law, following pro-choice activists as they campaign to lead their country towards progressive reform.

Ireland’s 8th Amendment was effectively a constitutional ban on abortion. Capturing a crucial moment for women’s rights, this stirring observational film follows the fight to repeal The 8th, as the country heads to an historic referendum. Though it includes voices from both sides of the debate, The 8th focuses on the dynamic female leaders of the pro-choice campaign.

We follow veteran campaigner Ailbhe Smyth and self-described glitter activist Andrea Horan as they chart a bold strategy of grassroots activism and attempt to shift their country towards a more liberal, secular society. An urgent narrative, a cautionary tale and a roadmap for progressive reforms in a modern era where authoritarianism is on the rise, The 8th shows a country forging a new progressive path at a time when reproductive rights are threatened around the world.

This film contains flickering or flashing lights that may affect those with photosensitive epilepsy.