When IndieCork wrapped up last year, it marked the end of an important chapter for short film in Cork — but also the beginning of something new.
From that moment, a new festival has been taking shape quietly in the background. The Gearr Cork International Short Film Festival, arriving in Cork this October, and we are proud to be a founding sponsor to it.
Introducing Gearr
Gearr is a brand new international festival dedicated entirely on short film. Taking place from 8-11 October 2026 at the ARC Cinema in Cork.
The focus is deliberate. Short film often moves quickly, travels lightly, and experiments freely — and Gearr is built around the belief that these stories deserve their own dedicated space to be seen, discussed, and celebrated.
Over four days, the festival will bring together filmmakers, audiences, and industry voices from Cork, across Ireland, and internationally. The aim is simple: to create a place where short film can be experienced at its best — on the big screen, with an audience, and in conversation with the people who make it.
Expect a programme that includes:
- Short films from emerging and established filmmakers
- A wide range of genres including fiction, documentary, animation, and music video
- Workshops, panel discussions, and masterclasses with industry guests
The name Gearr comes from the Irish word meaning “short” — a fitting title for a festival built around concise, powerful storytelling and creative risk-taking.
Built on experience, driven by a new vision
While Gearr is new, it is far from inexperienced
The festival is being led by a team with a strong background in film programming, festival curation, and creative production in Ireland. A new festival director has also joined to help shape its direction from the ground up, bringing fresh energy and a clear ambition for what Gearr can become.
Together, that mix of experience and new perspective is shaping something that feels both grounded and forward-looking.
Gearr isn’t just about screening films. It’s about building a space where filmmakers feel supported, audiences feel involved, and new ideas can find room to grow.
Why we’re supporting Gearr
We’re always interested in where creativity and technology meet. Over the past decade, the way stories are made, shared, and discovered has changed completely — and short film has been right at the centre of that shift.
Gearr reflects a lot of what matters to us:
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- Supporting emerging creative talent
- Encouraging experimentation and new ideas
- Connecting people through storytelling
- Strengthening creative community
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It’s exactly the kind of initiative we’re proud to stand behind.
About the Author: Alicia Stumke
