Once Upon a Time in a Cinema vs Treading Water
Once Upon a Time in a Cinema has the higher audience score (10/10 against 7/10 for Treading Water). Once Upon a Time in a Cinema is the shorter watch at 1h 32m compared with 2h 1m. Treading Water is the older of the two (2025 against 2026). Both are drama movies, so they suit a similar mood.
Once Upon a Time in a Cinema
Treading Water| Once Upon a Time in a Cinema | Treading Water | |
|---|---|---|
| Audience score | ★ 10.0/10 | ★ 7.0/10 |
| Year | 2026 | 2025 |
| Length | 1h 32m | 2h 1m |
| Genres | Drama | Drama |
| Country | Ireland | – |
| Director | David Gleeson | Gino Evans |
| Main cast | Colin Morgan, Andrew Bennett, Niamh Cusack, Stanley Townsend, Liam O'Brien | Christine Dalby, Wendy Patterson, Joe Gill, Becky Bowe, Darren Connolly |
Synopsis
Once Upon a Time in a Cinema
Earl Clancy, a cinema owner on the edge, battles a series of disasters while juggling personal turmoil and the chaos of a packed Friday night crowd. Told in real time over the course of the movie playing in the cinema.
Treading Water
Set amidst the backdrop of the iconic Manchester skyline, Danny, fresh out of prison into the tough reality of supported housing and dealing with the mental health issues that have shaped him. Whilst he attempts to get his life back on track a chance encounter with past love Laura shines a light in the dark – but will this hint of romance offer a shot at redemption or lead him on a path to tragedy?
Where to watch
Where to watch Once Upon a Time in a CinemaWhere to watch Treading Water
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