I See Buildings Fall like Lightning is a 2026 drama film directed by Clio Barnard, written by Enda Walsh and based on the book of the same name by Keiran Goddard. It stars Anthony Boyle, Joe Cole, Jay Lycurgo, Daryl McCormack and Lola Petticrew as five childhood friends who confront their unfulfilled dreams in the midst of the UK housing crisis.
The film had its world premiere at the Directors' Fortnight section of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival in 20 May, where it won the section's Audience Award.
Cast Anthony Boyle as Patrick Joe Cole as Rian Jay Lycurgo as Oli Daryl McCormack as Conor Lola Petticrew as Shiv Millie Brady as Emma Lucie Shorthouse as Sophie James Eeles as Marcus Michael Horton
Production The novel by Keiran Goddard is adapted by Enda Walsh for the film directed by Clio Barnard. It has producer Tracy O’Riordan for Moonspun Films with funding from BBC Film and BFI and Curzon Film distributing.
Principal photography took place in the United Kingdom in April 2025. Cinematographer Simon Tindall shot the production in hybrid formats, 16mm film and digitally, marking his first collaboration with Barnard.
Reception Critical response On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 95% based on 19 reviews, with an average rating of 8.2/10.https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/i_see_buildings_fall_like_lightning On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 77 out of 100, based on 9 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews".https://www.metacritic.com/movie/i-see-buildings-fall-like-lightning?ftag=MCD-06-10aaa1c
Accolades Award Year Category Recipient(s) Result Cannes Film Festival 2026 Audience Award Clio Barnard Palm Dog Award - Grand Jury Prize
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