Fractured City (2016)
A short drama set in 1990s Belfast, where the pulse of dance culture dares to bridge a divided city — but unity always comes at a cost.
Fractured City - Movie Information
- Original Title: Fractured City
- Release Year: 2016
- Directed by: Sean A Murray
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Runtime: 25m
- Original Language: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): April 15, 2016 (United Kingdom)
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, Ireland
Fractured City - Plot
Dance culture brings communities together in 1990s Belfast but there will be consequences.
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Fractured City - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Sean A Murray
Main Cast
- Ryan McParland
- Kevin Keenan
- Martin McCann
- Ciaran McCourt
- Gerard McSorley
- Chris Patrick-Simpson
- Lalor Roddy
- Michael Smyth
Writers
- Sean A Murray
Producers
- Sean A Murray
Fractured City - FAQs
What is Fractured City about?
Fractured City is set in 1990s Belfast, where the emerging dance culture becomes an unexpected bridge between divided communities. The film explores how music and movement can cross sectarian lines — but shows that even moments of unity can carry a heavy price.
Does Fractured City have a happy ending?
The film's premise — "there will be consequences" — signals that hope and hardship go hand in hand. While dance culture offers a rare moment of connection across Belfast's divided communities, the story doesn't shy away from the tensions and costs that come with crossing those boundaries.
Who directed Fractured City?
Fractured City was written, directed, produced, and edited by Sean A Murray — making it a deeply personal, one-person creative vision. Murray's multi-hyphenate role gives the film a distinctive, unified voice throughout its compact 25-minute runtime.
Who are the main actors in Fractured City?
The cast features Ryan McParland, Kevin Keenan, Martin McCann, Ciaran McCourt, Gerard McSorley, Chris Patrick-Simpson, Lalor Roddy, and Michael Smyth. Martin McCann and Gerard McSorley are among the most recognisable names, both well-regarded in Irish and British film and television.
How long is Fractured City?
Fractured City runs for just 25 minutes, making it a short film. That compact runtime is part of its appeal — it delivers a focused, emotionally resonant story about community, identity, and the power of dance without overstaying its welcome.
When and where was Fractured City released?
Fractured City had its release in the United Kingdom on April 15, 2016. As a short film produced in the UK and Ireland, it was aimed at festival circuits and specialist audiences with an interest in Irish social history and contemporary short-form storytelling.
Is Fractured City based on a true story?
While Fractured City is a fictional drama, it draws on the very real social history of 1990s Belfast. The rave and dance scene of that era genuinely brought young people from different communities together, offering a cultural escape from the tensions of the Troubles.
What films are similar to Fractured City?
If Fractured City resonates with you, try Kisses (2008) or Mickybo and Me (2005) for more Irish coming-of-age drama. Charm City Kings (2020) and Almost Friends (2017) also explore youth, community, and identity in similarly grounded, character-driven ways.
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