ADIFF 2017 is quickly approaching, and it has been revealed that actor Eric Bana will be attending this year, for the Gala Irish Premiere of his film The Secret Scripture on February 18 at the Savoy Cinema. Based on the novel by Sebastian Barry, the film tells the story of Rose, who has documented her stay at a mental hospital in her personal diary. The film version will star Bana along with Vanessa Redgrave, Jack Reynor and Susan Lynch, who will also be appearing at the festival along with director Jim Sheridan. Regarding Bana's upcoming appearance at the festival, Gráinne Humphreys, Festival Director, said, "The Gala Irish Premiere screening of The Secret Scripture at the Audi Dublin International Film Festival with Jim Sheridan and Vanessa Redgrave in attendance was already a landmark event for Irish film in 2017. But to have Eric Bana jetting in for the Gala brings another dimension of glamour and significance. I’m delighted to welcome him back to Ireland for the festival."
It has also been announced that following the tragic death of actor Sir John Hurt this past January, there will be a tribute screening of his film Snowpiercer on February 24 also at the Savoy. The brilliant post-apocalyptic thriller has never before been screened here in Ireland. Hurt received widespread critical acclaim for his work on the film in the role of Gilliam. Humphrey's also spoke of Hurt's remarkable influence on the film industry, saying "He was one of the most important acting talents of the last 50 years and he had a strong and special relationship with Ireland, where for many years he made his home. He will be very much missed. A donation from the screening will be made to a charity of the Hurt family’s choice."
The choice to screen Snowpiercer rather than any of Hurt's other classic films was one that Hurt himself would have supported, according to statements from his family. Hurt's widow, Anwen Hurt, said, "I cannot imagine a better tribute, nor one that would please John more, than Snowpiercer, a film of which he was immensely proud and that he championed so passionately."
Watch the trailers for The Secret Scripture and Snowpiercer below.
The Secret Scripture trailer:

Snowpiercer trailer: