On the outskirts of Odesa, stands Kuyalnyk Sanatorium. Each summer, thousands of Ukrainians come here, drawn by Soviet-era therapies and the chance to relax beside the salt lake. The biggest attraction though, is the mysterious black mud, said to cure infertility, physical disabilities and other ailments. Sanatorium takes us through a summer season at this place, following the staff as they work hard to provide care, comfort, and entertainment for visitors – even with the war continuing close by. For the guests, it’s an oasis of peace where they seek healing, love and renewal in an uncertain world. Gar O’Rourke’s quietly observational film captures the heart and soul of this remarkable holiday & health resort showing the resilience and humanity of the people working and visiting there and revealing a different perspective of life in Ukraine during the war.

Notes by Sunniva O’Flynn.

As part of Best of Irish 2025

At the IFI, we champion the full sweep of Irish film throughout the year – from Oscar-nominated features to amateur films made on a shoestring; from archival restorations to brand new releases. Our cinema screenings are complemented by discussions, Q&As, and introductions, adding great value and context for IFI’s discerning audiences. 2025’s top 5 films, which include F-rated work, internationally focused Irish-produced documentary, and films about formerly underrepresented communities, demonstrate the diversity of our programme and your good taste. We are delighted to re-present our best performing Irish films – giving you another chance to catch something you may have missed or to come back and enjoy one of your favourite Irish films one more time.

Other Best of Irish titles include:
Blue Road: the Edna O’Brien story
Girls & Boys
Four Mothers
Christy