The 8th

Directed by Aideen Kane, Lucy Kennedy & Maeve O’Boyle

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The 8th traces Ireland’s campaign to remove the 8th Amendment – a constitutional ban on abortion. It shows a country’s transformation from a conservative state in thrall to the Catholic church to a more liberal secular society.

The 8th includes voices from both sides of the debate, but its primary focus is on the dynamic female leaders of the pro-choice campaign. The film follows the veteran campaigner Ailbhe Smyth and self-described glitter-activist Andrea Horan as they chart a bold strategy of grassroots activism and engineer the impossible. This dramatic story is underscored by a vivid exploration of the wrenching failures that led to this defining moment in Irish history.

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

Together Films will be hosting an exciting virtual preview Q&A on Tuesday 18th May in partnership with Birds Eye View Reclaim the Frame, hosted by Radio 1’s Annie Mac. This event is free for audiences to access, and will be captioned and BSL interpreted. Click here to register for this event.

Duration:
94 minutes

Country of origin:
Ireland and USA

Year of production:
2020