“We beg to differ”, interview with director Ruairi Bradley

July 2, 2025

Ruairi Bradley on his creative documentary about the community of underground “differs”

“We beg to differ”, interview with director Ruairi Bradley Chiara Nicoletti

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Emerging film director from Belfast, Ruairi Bradley is taking part to the 8th edition of the Future Frames Program at the 59th Karlovy Vary Film Festival with his short film “We beg to differ“.

With the Future frames programme for talented young directors, the European Film Promotion EFP takes ten outstanding film school graduates from throughout Europe to the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (Czech Republic). The directors get the chance to present their short films to the international industry and the public at the prestigious A-list film festival.

“We beg to differ” has been screened at top festivals such as SXSW, Clermont-Ferrand, and Hot Docs. The film has earned over 13 awards, including an Oscar-qualifying win at the Galway Film Fleadh, nominations at the London Critics Circle and Irish Film and Television Awards, and is currently a candidate for the 2026 European Film Awards.

The film, to quote Bradley “is a creative documentary that immerses audiences into the community of underground “differs,” a group of people who have found healing through their illegal hobby” and it is a story about the power of community, the power of belonging.

Plot

We beg to differ explores Northern Ireland's underground car community amidst a mental health crisis. The documentary showcases the community's deep bonds, passion for cars as an outlet for personal struggles, and daring spirit all while evading the law.

Written by: Chiara Nicoletti

Guest

Ruairi Bradley