I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning
2026 drama film by Clio Barnard
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I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning is a 2026 drama film directed by Clio Barnard, written by Enda Walsh and based on the book of the same name by Keiran Goddard. It stars Anthony Boyle, Joe Cole, Jay Lycurgo, Daryl McCormack and Lola Petticrew as five childhood friends who confront their unfulfilled dreams in the midst of the UK housing crisis.
by Keiran Goddard
| I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning | |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Clio Barnard |
| Screenplay by | |
| Based on | I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning by Keiran Goddard |
| Produced by | Tracy O’Riordan |
| Starring |
|
| Cinematography | Simon Tindall |
| Edited by | Maya Maffioli |
| Music by | Harry Escott |
Production companies | |
| Distributed by | Curzon Film (United Kingdom) |
Release date |
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Running time | 109 minutes |
| Countries |
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| Language | English |
The film had its world premiere at the Directors' Fortnight section of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival in 20 May, where it won the section's Audience Award.[1][2][3]
Cast
- Anthony Boyle as Patrick[4]
- Joe Cole as Rian
- Jay Lycurgo as Oli
- Daryl McCormack as Conor
- Lola Petticrew as Shiv
- Millie Brady
- Lucie Shorthouse
- James Eeles
- Michael Horton
Production
The novel by Keiran Goddard is adapted by Enda Walsh for the film directed by Clio Barnard. It has producer Tracy O’Riordan for Moonspun Films with funding from BBC Film and BFI and Curzon Film distributing.[5]
Principal photography took place in the United Kingdom in April 2025.[6] Cinematographer Simon Tindall shot the production in hybrid formats, 16mm film and digitally,[7] marking his first collaboration with Barnard.[8]
Accolades
| Award | Year | Category | Recipient(s) | Result | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cannes Film Festival | 2026 | Audience Award | Clio Barnard | Won | [9] |
| Palm Dog Award - Grand Jury Prize | Won | [10] |