The much anticipated Cork International Film Festival returns for its 65th year in November, with a blend of physical and virtual events.

Launching the Festival, which will run from November 4-15, is the multi-award winning film, Nomadland, courtesy of Searchlight Pictures.

Winner of the Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival, and Toronto Film Festival’s People's Choice award, this compelling and compassionate film stars Frances McDormand in what The Guardian has called "the performance of her career". 

Her character explores the vast landscape of the American West, in director Chloé Zhao’s intimate portrayal of life as a modern-day nomad. 

Adapting Jessica Bruder’s non-fiction book, Chloé Zhao writes, directs, and edits with impressively crisp focus.

CIFF has also announced the Irish Gala of The Bright Side on Thursday, November 5 in the Gate Cinema. 

This insightful film is a world premiere and first feature for writer-director Ruth Meehan. 

It follows the story of Kate McLoughlin, a world-weary, Dublin stand up comedian who is facing the enormity of a cancer diagnosis.

Also included in the Festival is a programme to mark Cork’s 1920 commemorations in partnership with Cork City Council.

Speaking about CIFF2020, Festival Director and CEO, Fiona Clark said 65 years on, the spirit of the Festival is "alive and well". 

"Cork is renowned for its resilience, solidarity and creativity, and it is from a position of strength, confidence and pride that we have been determined to safely deliver a reimagined Festival this year. 

"In a unique partnership with The Gate Cinemas, our opening night film will screen simultaneously in six screens in The Gate, Cork to enable as many people as possible to participate, whilst adhering to the Government guidelines on venue capacity. 

"From November 8, audiences across Ireland will be able to watch films online from home with our new digital platform, and join us in celebrating Ireland’s first and largest film festival," she continued. 

The full programme for the Festival will be announced on October 14. 

All tickets will go on sale on that date via corkfilmfest.org