Exeter alumnus’s latest novel set for feature film adaptation

Acclaimed British director Clio Barnard is set to adapt Keiran Goddard’s latest novel, I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning, into a feature film. The project boasts a talented cast, including Anthony Boyle, Joe Cole, Jay Lycurgo, Daryl McCormack, and Lola Petticrew.  

Keiran Goddard, an alumnus of Exeter College (2002, English), has garnered attention for his literary contributions, including poetry collections and his debut novel, Hourglass, which was longlisted for the Desmond Elliott Prize, along with a nomination for the Gordon Burn prize for I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning. His second novel’s transition to the big screen under Barnard’s direction is highly anticipated.  

Barnard, known for her works such as The Selfish Giant and Ali & Ava, has a history of crafting compelling narratives rooted in British culture. Her recent curation of the “Northern Soul” film programme at Bradford’s Pictureville Cinema highlights her commitment to representing Northern voices in cinema. 

The film’s production is backed by the BBC and the British Film Institute, with Curzon Film handling distribution. Principal photography commenced in the UK this month, with screen adaption written by Enda Walsh (Small Things Like These, Hunger)  

Exeter College warmly congratulates Keiran on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to the film’s release with great anticipation.