The Glasgow Film Festival is poised to ignite the city tomorrow, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of cinematic storytelling with a distinctly Scottish heart. From celebrated icons like Tilda Swinton and Ewan McGregor to the directorial debut of actor James McAvoy, Scottish talent is prominently featured in a program reaching across the globe.
This year’s festival boasts an impressive 126 films hailing from 44 countries, including a remarkable 16 world, European, and international premieres. Audiences will also have the opportunity to experience 69 UK premieres and 18 films debuting in Scotland for the very first time, promising a wealth of discovery.
The festival will powerfully open with “Everybody to Kenmure Street,” a documentary by BAFTA winner Felipe Bustos Sierra and produced by Emma Thompson. The film revisits a remarkable moment of community resistance in 2021, when residents of Pollokshields united to prevent the removal of two Sikh immigrants by Home Office officials.
Footage captured on the day by eyewitnesses intertwines with dramatic recreations, giving voice to those who wish to remain anonymous. “Everybody to Kenmure Street” is a testament to the strength of collective action and the power of local solidarity in the face of injustice.
The festival will culminate on March 8th with “California Schemin’,” the directorial debut of James McAvoy. This captivating film brings to life the true story of Scottish rap duo Silibil N’ Brains, a tale of ambition, creativity, and the vibrant energy of the Scottish music scene.
Paul Gallagher, the festival’s head of programme, reflects on a lifelong passion for film sparked by late-night screenings and the insightful guidance of critics like Barry Norman. A single viewing of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo” ignited a fascination with the art of cinematic storytelling that continues to this day.
For those overwhelmed by the extensive program, Gallagher suggests beginning with a free retrospective screening – a journey through classic films from the 1930s to the 2010s. Following this, a selection from the Marilyn Monroe centenary films offers a glimpse into the golden age of Hollywood.
He also champions the Audience Award selections, highlighting ten films from first or second-time filmmakers. These works represent a diverse range of genres and styles, offering audiences the chance to discover fresh voices and innovative perspectives.
The Glasgow Film Theatre will serve as the festival’s central hub, with screenings also taking place at Odeon Luxe Glasgow Quay and special events hosted at Glasgow University Union, Glasgow Women’s Library, and the Pyramid at Anderston. The city itself will become a canvas for cinematic celebration.
This year’s festival promises star power, with appearances anticipated from Jude Law, Angelina Jolie, Willem Dafoe, and Cate Blanchett, among others. A poignant tribute will be paid to Marilyn Monroe and Robert Redford, with screenings of their iconic films.
A remarkable 13 Scottish films will be showcased, representing both established and emerging talent. “Sailm nan Daoine (Psalms of the People)” offers a moving exploration of Gaelic psalm singing, while “Welcome to G-Town” delivers a uniquely Glaswegian sci-fi adventure.
“Molly vs THE MACHINES,” a powerful documentary about a father’s fight for truth and justice, will also have its world premiere. The film, supported by Screen Scotland, delves into the complex world of corporate power and its impact on individual lives.
FrightFest, the festival’s resident horror strand, will launch with “Jailbroken,” a relentlessly tense thriller co-produced by a Scottish company and featuring a strong Scottish cast. The film promises a claustrophobic and gripping cinematic experience.
Further Scottish highlights include “The Fall of Sir Douglas Weatherford,” a darkly comedic tale of local history and obsession, and “Without Permission,” a docufiction hybrid exploring the challenges faced by an exiled filmmaker returning to Iran.
“Midwinter Break,” a touching drama set in Glasgow and partially filmed in Perthshire, offers a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time. “My Father’s Island” beautifully portrays the bond between a father and son during a year spent on a remote Nordic island.
Rounding out the selection are films with strong ties to Scotland, including “Super Nature,” a visually stunning documentary celebrating the natural world, and “Orwell: 2+2=5,” an insightful exploration of George Orwell’s life and work on the island of Jura.
Finally, “The Son and the Sea,” filmed in a picturesque Scottish village, tells a compelling story of friendship and transformation, proving that a chance encounter can alter the course of a life.
