Ceol's Craic Film Club Blackbird & When the Song Dies

Named among the 'Best of the Fest' at last year's Edinburgh International Film Festival and nominated for a Scottish BAFTA, Blackbird is a captivating tale of belonging and loss.

Young ballad singer Ruadhan despairs as the fabric of his rural Scottish hometown erodes. There are no fish in the sea, no jobs and a steady exodus to the city. Life as he loves it is slipping away and Ruadhan's idol, the town bard Alec, has little stomach to fight the change.

Long time best pal Calum and returning childhood friend Amy spark Ruadhan's struggle to keep the past alive. When Alec takes off to a retirement home in mysterious circumstances, Ruadhan must act quickly to save him and protect the town he loves and its oral traditions. As his battle spirals out of control, it becomes Ruadhan who needs saving.

We will also be screening a short documentary by the same film-makers. Exploring the theme of change, When the Song Dies is the story of a culture that is, like so many, in danger of fading from human memory.