Born That Way

A film about Care. And Love. And Patrick Lydon.

In a small wooden house in County Kilkenny, Ireland, Patrick Lydon’s life is ebbing away. Throughout his final year he reflects on an extraordinary life that took him from a budding career in rock journalism in America to trailblazing in Ireland with his wife, Gladys, the development of the radically inclusive Camphill Movement, sharing life in community with people of diverse needs, abilities and backgrounds. Patrick’s story calls forth the story of Camphill itself, and articulates the impulse driving an approach to life struggling for survival in today’s consumerist climate. At a time when the world is in need of inspiration, Patrick and Gladys’ story is just the ticket.

Through family involvement with Camphill, director Éamon Little (co-writer of That They May Face the Rising Sun) was a long-time friend of Patrick and Gladys Lydon. Given intimate access throughout Patrick’s final illness, this tender, provocative love story celebrates community spirit, disability, inclusion and otherness.

RTE Culture Review – The best films of 2025

The Irish Times Review – The 50 best films of 2025

‘BEST IRISH DOCUMENTARY’
Dublin International Film Festival 2025, Dublin Critics Circle Award

‘DESPERATELY MOVING AND BEAUTIFULLY MADE. ESSENTIAL VIEWING’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Donald Clarke, Irish Times

‘AN INTIMATE PORTRAIT OF EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE’
Sunday Independent

‘INSPIRATIONAL STORY OF HUMILITY AND LOVE OF COMMUNITY’
Film Ireland

Book Tickets

Book tickets for Sunday, 07 December
(Sunday screening followed by Q&A with Arts, Culture & Entertainment presenter Gary McMahon)

Book tickets for Wednesday, 10 December
(Wednesday screening followed by Q&A with Tony Tracey)

Accessibility & Assistance

When booking your tickets, please let us know of any special requirements so we can make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

If you book online, phone +353 (0) 91 565 886 or email nunsisland@galwayartscentre.ie to let us know of any special requirements.