ActOne Cinema Hosts Premiere of Irish Documentary
Explores country's global influence on culinary and drinks industries
Frank Mannion and executive producer Oxana Popkova. Picture: Swipe Films
July 24, 2025
Act One Cinema in Acton recently welcomed a full house earlier this month for the premiere of A Sip of Irish, a new feature documentary from Swipe Films. Directed by Frank Mannion, the film explores Ireland’s global influence in the culinary and drinks industries, with a particular focus on whiskey, wine, and hospitality.
The screening was followed by a Q&A session with Mannion, who spoke about the film’s international scope and its personal resonance for London’s Irish community. “There are six million Brits with an Irish grandparent, many of whom are in London,” he said. “Acton has a big Irish expat community so I was looking forward to hearing what they think of the film. Hopefully it made them feel a little nostalgic about Ireland.”
Partly shot in London, the documentary features contributions from publican Oisín Rogers of The Devonshire Soho, chef Anna Haugh of Myrtle restaurant in Chelsea, and Jameson whiskey blender Deirdre O’Carroll. Other appearances include wine writer Oz Clarke, dancer and whiskey entrepreneur Michael Flatley, actor Sam Neill, presenter Laura Whitmore, and Prince Albert of Monaco. The film also highlights the Muff Liquor Company in Donegal, which counts Russell Crowe among its investors.
The documentary traces Irish contributions to drinks culture across the globe, from Bordeaux vineyards founded by Irish émigrés to modern-day distilleries and pubs. It also touches on lesser-known stories, such as the Irish roots of Hennessy Cognac and the dairy farm behind Baileys Irish Cream.
Audience members praised the film’s blend of humour, history, and visual storytelling. The Q&A offered insights into Mannion’s filmmaking process and the surprising connections uncovered during production. His previous works include Quintessentially British and Sparkling: The Story of Champagne.
A Sip of Irish is now showing in UK cinemas and is available on digital platforms.
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