Clio Barnard's 'I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning' Drops First Clip Ahead of Cannes Premiere

Director Clio Barnard has unveiled the first clip from her upcoming feature film, 'I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning,' ahead of its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival's Directors' Fortnight.

The Details

The film is scheduled to have its world premiere on May 20, 2026, as part of the 2026 Directors' Fortnight selection. The Quinzaine des Cinéastes program lists the feature as a 109-minute film receiving its world premiere at the festival.

The official festival synopsis states that 'I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning' follows five childhood friends from the same estate who, nearing age 30, must confront hopes and dreams that have not materialized.

The ensemble cast includes Anthony Boyle, Joe Cole, Jay Lycurgo, Daryl McCormack, and Lola Petticrew, according to the official Directors' Fortnight cast listing.

The screenplay is credited to Enda Walsh, and the film adapts Keiran Goddard's novel of the same name, the Quinzaine page notes.

Barnard is a British filmmaker whose previous credits include 'The Arbor' and 'The Selfish Giant,' according to the Directors' Fortnight director biography.

The project is produced by Tracy O'Riordan's Moonspun Films, co-financed by BBC Film and the British Film Institute, Variety reported. Curzon is handling U.K. distribution, and Charades is managing worldwide sales.

Context

Barnard's prior work has earned recognition in independent cinema, with 'The Arbor' and 'The Selfish Giant' marking her as a distinctive voice in British filmmaking. The film's adaptation of Goddard's novel and Walsh's screenplay bring together creative elements from both literary and theatrical backgrounds.

The financing structure involving BBC Film, the BFI, and Moonspun Films reflects a typical U.K. independent production model, with Curzon securing domestic distribution and Charades positioned for international sales.

What's Next

'I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning' will make its world premiere on May 20, 2026, in the Directors' Fortnight section of the Cannes Film Festival. The first clip, unveiled ahead of the premiere, offers an initial look at Barnard's latest feature before its festival debut.