The documentary film, ‘Strange Occurrences in a small Irish village’, which examines the phenomenon of the Knock shrine is now available on DVD. The film comes from the filmmakers behind award-winning ‘One Million Dubliners’ which followed the captivating behind-the-scenes stories of Glasnevin Cemetery.
‘Strange Occurrences in a small Irish village’ develops a fascinating, vibrant portrait of the phenomenon of Knock by examining the vast patchwork of individuals and groups involved. The film presents a balanced opportunity for believers to celebrate the phenomenon and those who facilitate its ongoing success, while for sceptics it allows a fascinating glance into Ireland’s Marian Shrine
The story of Knock began on the 21 August 1879 when Our Lady, Saint Joseph and Saint John the Evangelist appeared at the south gable of Knock Parish Church. This miraculous apparition was witnessed by fifteen people, young and old. Knock is an internationally recognised Marian Shrine and was visited by Saint Pope John Paul II as part of his 1979 papal pilgrimage to Ireland. During his visit – which coincided with the Shrine’s centenary year – the late pope celebrated Mass at the Shrine and addressed the sick, their helpers and pilgrimage directors.
Directed by Aoife Kelleher, the film’s title is derived from theinternational press coverage at the time.
In the film, we meet people with compelling stories – people seeking cures; the eight sibling owners of rival religious merchandiseshops; a woman relieved of multiple sclerosis during a 1970s pilgrimage; and the staff of the Knock Marriage Bureau, the matchmakers behind one thousand marriages and counting.
Fresh from a successful five week run incinemas nationwide, Underground Films’ producer Lindsay Campbell said, “We’re delighted the DVD is now available – bringing the film to a brand new audience.There are so many intriguing and engaging stories in Knock, and we’re excited to include some great new ones in our DVD extras.”
‘Strange Occurrences in a small Irish village’ is an Underground Films production in association with RTÉ and the Broadcasting Authority ofIreland in association with Shoot for the Moon and in association with Bord Scannán na hÉireann (The Irish Film Board).
‘StrangeOccurrences in a small Irish village’ is released on DVD today, Monday 14 November. See www.undergroundfilms.ie for details.
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