IFCO & DIFF Film Lecture Series 2026:
Call For Entries
Following the continued success of the 2024 and 2025 IFCO Centenary lecture series, the Dublin International Film Festival is partnering with IFCO to give a public platform to those interested in writing about and sharing public discourse on film culture and analysis.
ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY
In 2024 the remaining IFCO records from the censorship period were deposited in the National Archives. These records comprise the individual decisions on films reviewed by the Film Censors that are not already publicly available, and those subject to appeals to the Censorship of Films Appeals Board.
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The records also include previously unpublished Annual Reports of the Official Censor to the Minister. Taken together these records represent a fascinating insight into cinema exhibition in Ireland and the central role which censorship played in shaping Irish film culture.
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For 2026 we are looking for vibrant and exciting presentations on the extent to which the audience ratings awarded to theatrical content has reflected Irish society and evolving community values. The IFCO Collection in the National Archives is a rich information source in this regard.
We want to encourage a wide range of approaches, and the presentation could be promotional, historical or focus on a specific case study. The presentation might focus on a particular era or specific films, either Irish or International. Papers might look at certain film genres, the work of a specific film director or actors or subjects such as race, politics and gender. Given the wealth of material – applicants might also consider specific film censors throughout history and evaluate their effects and influence.
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All papers must clearly reference their research in the archives and can use archival clips and quotations as part of presentation which must not exceed 20 minutes and must be original work.
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The research outcomes will be presented in a public event as part of the Dublin International Film Festival 2026, which will run 19th February to 1st March. There are three bursaries available, each of €1000, for the three successful applicants.
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The deadline for applications is Friday 17th October.
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To apply please send a 200-word pitch document and short CV to programme@diff.ie by Friday 17th October. Responses will be considered by a panel of three people and the panel’s decisions on the projects to be supported is final. Payments will be made after the event.