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Clio Barnard’s I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning Debuts at CannesDirectors’ Fortnight

Early reviews praise an empathetic ensemble portrait rooted in Birmingham’s working-class life.

Overview

  • The drama premieres in the Directors’ Fortnight section of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival after a community-rooted shoot in Birmingham.
  • Enda Walsh adapts Keiran Goddard’s novel into a character study of five childhood friends now facing adulthood on a council estate.
  • Lola Petticrew, Anthony Boyle, Joe Cole, Daryl McCormack, and Jay Lycurgo lead the cast in a story that avoids spoilers yet centers friendship and strain.
  • Critics highlight strong performances and a faithful adaptation, with IndieWire grading the film B+ and noting its subtle, human-scale approach.
  • Reviews point to class-focused themes such as housing pressure and insecure gig work, and the film is now seeking U.S. distribution following its festival bow.