I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning Drama

Acclaimed director Clio Barnard's latest film is a bittersweet drama about a group of friends in Birmingham struggling with economic pressures and unfulfilled dreams. With outstanding performances and a tender depiction of friendship, this film is not to be missed.

Dir: Clio Barnard

Cast: Anthony Boyle, Lola Petticrew, Joe Cole, Daryl McCormack, Jay Lycurgo, Millie Brady, Lucie Shorthouse, James Eeles

109 mins · 2026 · United Kingdom, United States of America · Cert 15 · English

IMDb 6.6/10 · Rotten Tomatoes 95% · Metacritic 77/100

Awards: 2 wins total

Cinecity 2026: I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning (15)

11 Nov 2026

Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts (Brighton)

The film has received impressive scores, with a 95% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a weighted average score of 77 out of 100 on Metacritic. Critics have praised the film's warmth, heartfelt passion, and expertly-observed study of human relationships. The film has also won two awards, including the Audience Award at the Directors' Fortnight section of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival.

I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning is a drama film directed by Clio Barnard, written by Enda Walsh and Keiran Goddard, and starring Anthony Boyle, Lola Petticrew, and Daryl McCormack. The film follows the story of five childhood friends who are struggling to come to terms with their unfulfilled dreams and the harsh realities of adulthood. With a runtime of 109 minutes and a certificate of 15, this film is a must-watch for fans of social-realist drama.

The film will be screened at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts in Brighton on Wednesday, 11 November 2026. Tickets are with the button beside the article. Viewers have responded positively to the film, relating to the struggles of the characters and appreciating the film's thoughtful portrayal of male friendships and the challenges of modern life.

Stills

What viewers say

Brent Marchant · 6/10

For many of us (especially those under 30), the expectation of being able to afford a reasonably comfortable life is slipping away, ironically, and all too regrettably, becoming little more than a dream in a very real sense. It’s a change that seems to be occurring worldwide, too, as economic disparity continues to take root around the globe. And one locale in which that trend has been occurring is Birmingham, the second largest city in the UK.…

Read on TMDB

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