The Lost Children of Tuam, a new film produced by Liam Neeson and Element Pictures, will receive its world premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh on 11 July 2026. Directed by Frank Berry and written by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, the film tells the real-life story of Catherine Corless, the local historian whose research exposed the devastating history of the former Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home in Tuam, County Galway.
While researching the institution for a historical society, Corless uncovered records connected to the deaths of 796 children. Her work raised the possibility that many had been buried in unmarked graves and began a campaign for truth and justice for the children, their families and survivors of the home.
Monica Dolan, known for Mr Bates vs The Post Office and Sherwood, stars as Corless. The cast also includes Andrew Bennett, whose credits include The Quiet Girl and God’s Creatures, alongside Derry Girls and Game of Thrones actor Ian McElhinney.
The film is based on Dan Barry’s 2017 New York Times article of the same name, which Neeson optioned for the screen. Berry previously explored Corless’s investigation and the questions surrounding the children who died at the home. “A brilliant director, exceptional writer, multi-skilled producers and a whole team of dedicated people have put their hearts and energy into this film,” Corless said. She added that she was indebted to the filmmakers for bringing the story to the screen.
Berry, whose previous films include Aisha and Michael Inside, said that premiering the film in Galway was a particularly meaningful way to begin its journey. Galway Film Fleadh programmer Charlene Lydon described the production as an important film made with sensitivity and compassion, adding that it honours the children and survivors while confronting a painful part of Ireland’s history.
Neeson produces through El Paso Films alongside Jules Daly for Big Red Films, Chelsea Morgan Hoffmann, Ed Guiney and Andrew Lowe for Element Pictures, and Martina Niland for Port Pictures. The film is presented by Screen Ireland and BBC Film in association with Fremantle, Coimisiún na Meán, MK2 and RTÉ. MK2 is handling worldwide sales, while Volta Pictures Distribution will release it in Ireland.
For CultureCues, bringing the film to Galway for its first public screening carries particular significance. Corless’s determination forced Ireland to confront a history that had been neglected for decades, and this adaptation has a responsibility to preserve that truth while centring the children and survivors affected. With Corless supporting the production, the film arrives with an important voice behind it.
The Lost Children of Tuam will premiere at Galway’s Town Hall Theatre on 11 July as part of the 38th Galway Film Fleadh, which runs from 7 to 12 July 2026.
Nikki Murray is a UK-based writer, screenwriter and founder & editor of CultureCues, covering film, television, music and pop culture. Her work focuses on storytelling and the moments shaping modern entertainment.