Celebrating thinking differently: a screening of Young Plato

To celebrate the Manchester Lit & Phil’s 242nd birthday, we’re putting on a special screening of Young Plato, a film that is all about thinking differently.

About the film:

Young Plato is an observational documentary set in post-conflict Belfast’s Ardoyne, where a marginalized, working-class community has for generations been plagued by poverty, drugs and guns.

This film charts the dream of Headmaster Kevin McArevey and his dedicated, visionary team illustrating how critical thinking and pastoral care can empower and encourage children to see beyond the boundaries and limitations of their own community.

We see how philosophy can encourage them to question the mythologies of war and of violence, and sometimes challenge the narratives their parents, peers and socio-economic group would dictate.

A trailer of Young Plato can be viewed here.

Event schedule:

- 10am - HOME opens and refreshments are served in the foyer.

- 10.30am – Welcome by Ian Cameron, President, in the film screening room (Marina’s Cinema).

- 10.40am - Film begins.

- 12.30pm – Film ends. Attendees who have purchased a ticket that includes lunch should proceed to the restaurant.

Good to know: Lunch ticket types sales end earlier, on the 17th February.

Director Biographies:

Neasa Ní Chianáín is one of Ireland's most established documentary talents. She has directed nine single docs (four feature length) and one tv series. Her last film, In Loco Parentis (aka 'School Life'), has been a world-wide success, premiering in competition at both IDFA 2016 and Sundance 2017. School Life won the Special Jury Prize in the Golden Gate Awards at the San Francisco Film Film, and an Audience Award (Prix du Public) at visions du Reel in Nyon.

Declan McGrath produced and directed Lomax in Éirinn (2018, TG4) which premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh in July 2018 and was screened at the IFI as part of its Ireland on Screen series. It was nominated for Best Arts Documentary at the 2019 Celtic Media Festival awards. Declan also directed the series Seinn Liom (2014) and Cad É An Scéal (2013) for BBCNI. He has worked as an editor for over twenty-five years, directing numerous award-winning dramas and documentaries.

Host or Publisher The Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society