Museum screens Oscar-nominated film ‘Belfast’

A screening of actor-filmmaker Kenneth Branagh’s movie “Belfast” will be held at 7 p.m. April 14 at the Northwest Montana History Museum in partnership with Flathead Valley Celtic Festival.

Written and directed by Branagh, the movie is based on his experiences growing up in north Belfast in the 1960s.

Seen through the eyes of Buddy, a 9-year-old boy, the film tells the story of a working-class Protestant family living in Belfast at the start of the sectarian violence known as The Troubles. As riots break out in August 1969, loyalists attack the homes and businesses owned by Catholics living on Buddy’s street. The film tells the story of the worsening conflict and its effect on his family who eventually are forced to move to England.

With an award-winning cast that includes Caitriona Balfe, Judi Dench, Jamie Dornan, Ciaran Hinds, Colin Morgan and Jude Hill, the film received seven Academy Award nominations and took home the Oscar for best original screenplay. It also was named one of the best films of 2021 by the National Board of Review and was honored at the Golden Globes and Critics Choice Awards.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free. Concessions, including beer and wine, will be available for purchase along with Celtic-themed raffle prizes. Proceeds and donations will support the museum and the Flathead Valley Celtic Festival, which is planned for Sept. 8 and 9. The festival typically features Highland games, music and dance, clan and lineage tents and food and craft vendors.

The museum is located at 124 Second Ave. E., Kalispell. For information call 756-8381.