Masculinity and faith in Irish dramaturgy have always been portrayed in two very staid states: for laughs or for terror.
Refreshing in its approach The Judas Iscariot Lunch presents thirteen Irish ex-priests who speak candidly and frankly about the crossroads they came to with their beliefs, after being ordained and positioned as missionaries in East Asia, the Pacific and South America in the 1960s and 1970s.
Through their ‘camera confessionals’ we hear their questions and the guilt raised while bridging the gap between the theology they were taught at the seminary and what they put into practice in the real world. Their journey conveys the broader understanding of what faith is, and how it must move and change with the times, cultures and indeed their own humanity and needs.
These humble and honest ex-clergymen give the audience an uplifting sometimes funny real and thought provoking story, that is stronger than the constraints of the church they left behind. Their story is as relevant today as it was back then on The Church’s position in society and one’s beliefs.
Paul Donnelly
Audi Dublin International Film Festival
Followed by a Q+A with the Filmmakers