Irish Documentary ‘Sanatorium’ Selected as Ireland’s Entry for the 2026 Oscars

Gar O’Rourke’s debut feature documentary, Sanatorium, has been chosen as Ireland’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards in 2026. The announcement was made by the Irish Film & Television Academy (IFTA) and reported by Screen Ireland here.

About Sanatorium

Set in the Kuyalnik Sanatorium near Odesa, Ukraine, Sanatorium offers a poignant portrayal of resilience and hope amidst the backdrop of war. The film follows the lives of staff and patients at a Soviet-era spa as they seek healing, love, and renewal over one summer season. According to Wikipedia, the sanatorium provides medical treatment and comfort to guests while the Russian war against Ukraine continues.

Production and Recognition

Directed by Gar O’Rourke, Sanatorium is a co-production between Venom Films, BBC Storyville, 2332 Films Ukraine, and Petite Maison Production France. The film premiered at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen in March 2025 as reported on Gar O’Rourke’s website and has since been showcased at several international film festivals, including Visions du Réel, Melbourne International Film Festival, DocuDays UA, Edinburgh International Film Festival, and the Galway Film Fleadh, where it won Best Irish Feature Documentary.

Industry Support and Release

Eclipse Pictures will release Sanatorium in Irish cinemas starting September 5, 2025. The film’s selection as Ireland’s Oscar entry follows the success of previous Irish submissions, including the Oscar-nominated An Cailín Ciúin (2023) and the Oscar-shortlisted Kneecap (2025).

Heineken® Supports Community Pubs

In related news, a documentary titled The Pub That Refused To Die, directed by Gar O’Rourke, premiered at the Dublin International Film Festival on February 28th, 2024. This film chronicles the story of 26 residents of Kilteely, Limerick, who came together to save their local pub, Aherns, from closure. The pub was renamed ‘The Street Bar’ after being purchased by the community. Heineken® supported the effort by providing business advice and barstaff training through the Heineken Ahhh-cademy.

The Importance of Pubs in Ireland

Sociologists recognize pubs as vital “third places” for community connection. Research, including a study published in the Journal of Rural Studies, highlights the critical role pubs play in fostering social cohesion in rural Irish communities. The loss of these spaces can lead to increased social isolation.

Resources for Pub Preservation

Heineken® has launched an online resource hub to provide guidance and inspiration to communities looking to safeguard their local pubs.