Bernadette: Notes on a Political Journey

Director Lelia Doolan reflects on the making of Bernadette: Notes on a Political Journey

I hadn't thought beyond getting the film finished. 

I hoped that it might give courage to new generations. There were times when Bernadette's prophecy: "It will be found under the bed when we're gone" seemed a definite possibility. She would also ask inconvenient questions like -- "what's the shape of this film?" when I'd still be moseying around in the dark under mountains of archive material asking myself the same question. 

Bernadette McAliskey

We were a small band: herself and myself, Joe Comerford, Gordon Bruic – in vigorous and convivial altercation and debate. Further along the way, Deirdre McAliskey, Deirdre Learmont, Hugh Doolan and a small army of generous-minded pals pushed us along.  

When the pieces were finally quilted together, we sat down together at the Galway Film Fleadh and took a long breath.

The documentary has been on the move since then – to London, to Glasgow and a great human rights gathering there; to Cork, and now for this welcome short run at the IFI before it travels to the north and further afield. 

It seems to have a reviving effect on people’s spirits so far…

So good.

Lelia Doolan

Director of Bernadette: Notes on a Political Journey

Bernadette: Notes on a Political Journey runs exclusively at the IFI from November 18th - 24th. 

For more information & bookings, please visit our website [here]