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Edinburgh International Film Festival announces Thelma Schoonmaker In Conversation event

The legendary film editor will speak as part of the EIFF 2024 Programme line-up
Festival also announces industry guests hosting tables at EIFF Networking Brunches
EIFF Industry events also include case study panels and distribution sessions in a wide-ranging programme focusing on cross arts conversations, Fringe partnerships and new talent support

The relaunched Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced details of a special in-conversation event with the legendary Thelma Schoonmaker who is celebrated for her iconic work as an editor on landmark moments in cinema history and for her collaborations with Martin Scorsese, including Raging Bull, Goodfellas, The Wolf of Wall Street and Killers of the Flower Moon.

Thelma will be discussing her outstanding career on Tuesday 20 August at 3pm at Tollcross Central Hall. Tickets are on sale now.

Whilst at the Festival, Thelma will also present the award for The Thelma Schoonmaker Prize for Short Filmmaking Excellence Competition which showcases World Premieres of new exciting short form work from Scottish, the UK and international filmmakers. The award comes with a cash prize of £15,000 and will be decided by audience vote during EIFF with the winner announced on Wednesday 21 August.

Alongside this, she will also introduce a retrospective screening of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s much loved film I Know Where I’m Going! (1945) set on the islands of Scotland.

Paul Ridd, Festival Director said: ‘We are absolutely thrilled that Thelma Schoonmaker has agreed to an in-person career conversation with us at this year’s Festival. An icon of cinema, Thelma has already been so generous with us already, allowing us to launch our brand new shorts prize in her name.

“Our line-up of guests across the film and industry programmes is absolutely star-studded, including newly announced guests at our Networking Brunches.

We are just immensely grateful to everyone for their continued support of the relaunched Festival. Bring it on!’

Running throughout the Festival, but with a focus of activity across the weekend of Friday 16 August to Sunday 18 August, the industry programme presents an impactful series of panels and networking opportunities for Scottish and international creatives to engage with industry experts from around the world.

This 77th edition of the Festival honours the film festival’s history, showcasing the very best talent in filmmaking in a format rooted in a local Scottish context whilst embracing the international diversity of creative expression.

EIFF is delighted to have initiated groundbreaking new collaborations and partnerships with Fringe organisations over non-traditional cinema spaces in renowned Summerhall, Inspace and 50 George Square in the University of Edinburgh. Monkey Barrel Comedy, Edinburgh’s acclaimed comedy club, is hosting the venue at Inspace, whilst Fringe favourite Assembly Festival is hosting the venue at 50 George Square.

On Friday 16 August, a morning NETWORKING BRUNCH co-hosted with Screen Fringe will take place at Summerhall Library Gallery, in collaboration with Summerhall.

Invited Table Hosts at the Brunch include: Sam Gough (Summerhall), Briony Hanson (British Council), Tricia Tuttle (Berlinale), Julia Trawinska (Picturehouse Entertainment), Bec Martin (Artistic Director, New Diorama), Jess Toomey (Director, Live Comedy Association), Karel Och (Director, Karlovy Vary), Sarah Brocklehurst (Producer, THE OUTRUN) and Katie Metcalfe (Nowness).

SCRAPPER TO SCREEN: A CASE STUDY will be a panel exploring the development to distribution of the hit 2023 film SCRAPPER, taking place at EIFF venue Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel on Friday afternoon. Moderated by Melanie Iredale (Reclaim the Frame) and with panellists including Charlotte Regan (Director of SCRAPPER), Theo Barrowclough (Producer of SCRAPPER), Lucie Desquiens (Sales at Charades) and Julia Trawinska (Acquisitions Manager at Picturehouse Entertainment).

Following the panel, early evening NETWORKING DRINKS will take place at Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel, ahead of an evening EIFF CURTAIN RAISER filmmaker and industry reception in Summerhall Library Gallery, both in partnership with BBC Film.

Saturday 17 August will begin with a NETWORKING BRUNCH which will take place at Summerhall Library Gallery in collaboration with Monkey Barrel.

Invited Table Hosts include: Jack Thomas O’Brien (Producer), Julia Jackman (Filmmaker), Mike Muncer (Evolution of Horror), David Bleese (Monkey Barrel) and writer and event producer Wendy Mitchell.

On Saturday early afternoon, IN CONVERSATION: GASPAR NOE will take place at Tollcross Central Hall with the iconic filmmaker discussing his work.

Later in the afternoon, a STAND UP TO THE SCREEN panel involving filmmakers who have transitioned from live performance/TV to filmmaking along with Fringe producers and creatives that are interested in screen work and working on developing ideas/adaptations for film.

The event will take place at Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel, and will be moderated by Rowan Woods (Edinburgh TV Festival) with panellists Alex Walton (WME), Afolabi Kuti (Producer) and filmmakers from the programme selection.

In the evening, NETWORKING DRINKS will take place at Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel and supported by NFTS Scotland, ahead of the now legendary EIFF Ceilidh.

On Sunday 18 August, a morning NETWORKING BRUNCH will take place at Summerhall Library Gallery, in collaboration with Assembly Festival.

Invited Table Hosts include: William Burdett Coutts (Assembly), Helene Espeiss (Charades), Jonathan Rutter (Premier), Wahida Niblo (Vertigo), Luke Moody (Doc Society), Matt Mueller (Screen International) and Robbie Collin (Telegraph).

Sunday afternoon will see the Festival’s Keynote address from acclaimed filmmaker Alex Garland and producer Andrew Macdonald at Tollcross Central Hall. The pair will discuss their long history of collaborations across films that include The Beach (2000), 28 Days Later (2002), Ex Machina (2014), as well as the recent global hit Civil War (2024). Tickets for this event will go on sale on 1 August and EIFF industry delegates will be able to access tickets closer to the Festival.

In partnership with Scottish Documentary Institute (SDI), a DOCUMENTARY DISTRIBUTION PANEL will take place at Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel, engaging Scottish documentary filmmaking talent, documentary producers and international documentary sales agents to deliver a rounded session on the business of independent documentary exhibition and distribution.

The session will be moderated by SDI’s Flore Cosquer with panellist Luke Moody (Doc Society), Graham Fulton (Conic), Sophie Fiennes (ACTING) and filmmakers from the programme selection.

Early evening NETWORKING DRINKS will take place at Inspace in association with Monkey Barrel, supported by SDI.

On Monday 19 August, coinciding with the Festival’s Out of Competition Shorts screening, there will be evening NETWORKING DRINKS in the Cameo Cinema bar supported by Screen Academy Scotland.

The same evening, BAFTA SCOTLAND celebrates the life and work of the ground-breaking film producer, curator, writer and former Director of the Edinburgh International Film Festival Lynda Myles in a special event celebrating her presentation of the BAFTA Scotland Outstanding Contribution to Film Award.

From 9pm, Ali Plumb (BBC Radio 1) will host the EIFF Film Quiz at Summerhall’s Dissection Room.

On Tuesday 20 August, evening NETWORKING DRINKS in the Cameo Cinema bar will take place.

EIFF Industry delegates are welcome to also register with Screen Fringe, a Screen Scotland-backed programme delivered in partnership with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.

Open to TV and film professionals, Screen Fringe offers a concierge service to delegates to help discover the best theatre and comedy talent from Scotland, the UK and beyond. EIFF industry delegates who want to engage with the Edinburgh Festivals to find talent and pursue opportunities for screen adaptation can accredit via the Fringe Society’s Arts Industry page (http://www.edfringe.com/take-part/arts-industry).

EIFF 2024 is supported by Screen Scotland and the BFI Audience Projects Fund, awarding National Lottery funding, the Industry Programme is backed by EXPO funding from the Scottish Government through Creative Scotland, and EventScotland part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate.

Edinburgh International Film Festival runs from Thursday 15 to Wednesday 21 August 2024.

From August 15 to August 21 2024, Edinburgh International Film Festival will take place at unique venues in Edinburgh allowing audiences to seamlessly experience the best of the Fringe along with the world-class programme of cinema at EIFF.

This year’s 77th edition of the Festival honours the film festival’s history, showcasing the very best talent in filmmaking in a format rooted in a local Scottish context whilst embracing the international diversity of creative expression. EIFF encourages general audiences, film fans and industry professionals to make the trip this summer to Edinburgh.

The revamped Festival has recently announced its programme which includes over thirty-eight feature films, five shorts programmes and various talks and events across its dates. Concession pricing is available and Pay What You Can tickets will be available across select screenings.

Helmed by Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, the team aims to create a world-class showcase for independent film and filmmaking talent.

Former Acquisitions Executive Ridd is supported by an expanding Board, including Chair Andrew Macdonald of DNA Films, producer of the iconic Edinburgh-based film Trainspotting; Peter Rice, former Chairman of General Entertainment at Disney and President of 21st Century Fox; and Amy Jackson, producer of last year’s BAFTA award-winning indie, Aftersun.

Animated TV sensation Bluey to have bumper episode compilation screening at cinemas across the UK

UK’s number 1 kid’s show Bluey arrives at Vue this month – with tickets on sale now

Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection is an hour-long treat for fans of Bluey to enjoy, made up of eight episodes from the TV show’s three series, all based around the theme of Family Trip.

The compilation will revisit several milestones for Bluey, including a Road Trip away, Camping and a visit to The Beach – as well as Bluey’s first trip to the cinema in Movies.

Arriving on 9 August, the title is part of Vue’s newly launched Big Shorts screenings, which will be bringing children’s favourite small screen characters to the big screen, with tickets starting from just £3.99.

The loveable Blue Heeler dog first arrived on-screen in Australia back in 2018 and has since become a household name, proving popular with children and parents alike across the globe.

Jointly commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family, Bluey is produced by multi-Emmy award-winning Ludo Studio in association with Screen Queensland and Screen Australia.

BBC Studios also holds global distribution and merchandise rights.

In the UK, Bluey airs on Disney+, and on free-to-air broadcast platforms CBeebies and BBC iPlayer.

The arrival of Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection marks the beginning of a series of summer offerings for families at Vue.

Toby Bradon, General Manager of Vue UK & Ireland, said: ‘We pride ourselves on our family offerings and cannot wait to share the joy of everyone’s favourite Blue Heeler on the big screen this month.

“As our selection of special screenings show, we value our family audiences and want to bring the magic of the big screen alive for as many as possible throughout the summer and beyond.’

For more information and to book tickets, visit myvue.com.

Celebrate the arrival of Deadpool & Wolverine with limited edition merch and sweet treats at Vue Edinburgh

THE highly anticipated team-up of Deadpool & Wolverine is finally arriving at screens across the UK and Ireland this weekend and to celebrate Vue is inviting film fans to suit up and show their support for their favourite anti-heroes – as well as enjoy a range of limited-edition merchandise and an all-new Tango Ice Blast flavour.

The only MCU release arriving on the big screen this year, Deadpool & Wolverine follows Deadpool (Ryan Reynolds) faced with impossible odds as his peaceful existence comes crashing down when the Time Variance Authority recruits him and Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) to help safeguard the multiverse.

The iconic duo buddying up for the first time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe marks the biggest superhero release of the year and Vue is asking film fans to bring their own besties to the big screen, dressed in either red or yellow to show their support for the two iconic Marvel heroes.

Promotional film cups, popcorn tins and buckets based on the heads of the two leads will be on sale for fans to claw into some tasty refreshments during the film. The film’s launch will also see the introduction of a new, exclusive Tropical Tango Ice Blast flavour.

Toby Bradon, General Manager of Vue UK and Ireland, said: ‘The arrival of Deadpool & Wolverine this weekend is the perfect way to hang out with your own bestie this summer.

“We’re thrilled to be making the arrival that extra bit special with some limited-edition merch and an all-new Tango Ice Blast flavour. We can’t wait to celebrate Marvel’s big summer film on the big screen – the way it should be seen.’

Tickets for Deadpool & Wolverine start from £4.99 when booked online. To find out more visit www.myvue.com

Vue sites in Edinburgh to put family fun in focus this summer

New big screen child-friendly content offerings

Vue sites in Edinburgh has announced the latest set of family-friendly blockbusters set to hit the big screen this summer, as well as a number of new ways for families and kids of all ages to enjoy time together at the big screen.

For the youngest film fans enjoying some of their favourite their very first outings to the big screen, Vue has introduced Big Shorts screenings, bringing some favourite children’s characters from television shows and web series such as The Gruffalo’s Child and Zog and the Flying Doctors to the big screen.

These short and sweets screenings offer a relaxed big screen environment with dimmed lights and reduced sound, tailor-made for younger film fans aged 1 to 4, allowing them to fall in love with the big screen in their very first trips.

Meanwhile, families looking for a value big screen experience can avail of the brand-new Mighty Mornings offering. This will see films such as Kung Fu Panda 4 and The Present shown across weekends and school holidays this summer from just £2.49 when tickets are purchased online.

It’s also set to be a summer of big screen, with blockbusters such as Pixar’s Inside Out 2 and Illumination’s Despicable Me 4 leading the bill.

Almost nine years since its enormously emotional debut warmed hearts and mini minds across the world, on 14 June Inside Out 2 invites us back to the wonderful world of Riley’s mind and Emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear and Disgust.

Now, as Riley reaches her teenage years, our cast meets a whole new cast of unfamiliar emotions which set them off on another marvellous adventure across the teenager’s mind.

Joining Joy and friends, this summer sees Gru and the Minion crew back with Despicable Me 4, which sees our former villain turned family man face off against new nemesis Maxime Le Mal and his femme fatale girlfriend Valentina, meaning his family, Minions included, must go on the run to stay safe. Expect more Minion mayhem, criminal capers and plenty of laughs when Despicable Me 4arrives at Vue on 12 July

As well as the latest family-friendly blockbusters, some true family classics will be back at home on the big screen as part of Vue’s Back On The Big Screen Family Treasures season, which includes Woody and Buzz’s sequel adventure Toy Story 2 and every live action outing of Marvel superhero Spider-Man, including the Tobey Maguire trilogy, Andrew Garfield The Amazing Spider-Man films and the more recent Tom Holland trilogy including Spider-Man: No Way Home later this summer.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue in Edinburgh Omni, said: “Every film fan discovered their love for stories on the big screen with their very first visit. Because of this, we’re looking to make this experience as memorable as possible for our young audiences to really help create their love for films with their family with our Big Shorts and Mighty Mornings offerings.

“With some incredible new blockbusters, family treasures and even some pre-school favourites heading to Vue, we’re thrilled to help families and youngsters enjoy their first trip to Vue, as well as each visit afterwards.”

Tickets are available, along with more information on Big Shorts and Mighty Mornings, at www.myvue.com/family

Cineworld Edinburgh announces Screen Day with £4 tickets

· SCREENX DAY TO TAKE PLACE ON SATURDAY JULY 6

· TICKETS REDUCED TO £4 PER FILM, ALL DAY, ONLY IN SCREENX

· OFFER VALID ACROSS 23 CINEMA SITES IN THE UK

Cineworld is delighted to announce SCREENX DAY, an exclusive, one-day event featuring some of the hottest blockbusters in the cutting-edge ScreenX format. Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 6th, and prepare for an unparalleled cinematic adventure across 23 locations in the UK.

To celebrate this state-of-the-art experience, the event will give aviators and Fremens across the country a chance to experience some of their favourite blockbusters in the revolutionary format for only £4.00 a ticket.

ScreenX uses advanced technology with 270-degree projection to create panoramic viewing that surrounds you in your seat. With the film extended beyond your peripheral vision, guests are transported into their cinematic universe of choice in a world first, available only at Cineworld.

For one day only, Cineworld is bringing back some of the biggest billers including:

Dune: Part Two – Enter a futuristic sci-fi world and immerse yourself in the heat of the battle for Arrakis with screens projecting an incredible desert expanse
Top Gun: Maverick – Catch this adventure-filled epic with footage exclusive to the ScreenX experience. Six cameras in the cockpit combine with the expanded sidewall projection to bring you along for each dynamic flying sequence like never before. Director Joseph Kosinski reveals “We weren’t able to use two of the side cameras in the [standard] film, but in ScreenX we were able to use that footage on the side screens, so what you’re seeing in ScreenX is live action footage on the side of the screens which is a first!”
Meg 2: The Trench – Immerse yourself in the under-sea-action of Meg 2 now in 270 degrees for the ultimate heart-racing jumpscares. With screens wrapping round your head, director Ben Wheatley notes “With ScreenX, that feeling of looking into the film that’s wrapping all around your head really amplifies a lot of the action stuff. With the Meg 2: The Trench there’s a lot of intense action that is really served well by ScreenX.”
Migration –The first ever animated film to be shown in ScreenX, take flight with the Mallard of ducks for this family favourite uplifting tale

Casey Cohen, Head of Marketing at Cineworld Cinemas, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce Cineworld’s inaugural ScreenX Day! For just £4, experience a revolutionary 270° view with projections expanding onto the side walls of the auditorium.

“Whether you’re soaring with Top Gun: Maverick or adventuring with Migration, you can surround yourself and your whole family with movie magic at Cineworld on July 6th.”

Tickets for the first ever ScreenX Day can now be purchased on the Cineworld Website or the Cineworld app.

#ScreenXDay

#ExperienceScreenX

ScreenX Day 2024 is sponsored by the Royal Air Force.

Screenings to take place at the following locations:

Ashford
Barnsley
Basildon
Belfast
Brighton  Castleford
Crawley
Didsbury
Edinburgh
Hull
Leeds White Rose
London – Hounslow
London – The O2 Greenwich
London – Wandsworth
Milton Keynes
Newcastle upon Tyne
Newport – Spytty Park
Rushden Lakes
Sheffield
Speke
Watford
Wolverhampton
York

Vue invites film fans to head back to 1999 this summer

This summer Vue is turning back the clock to 1999 by screening seven iconic films from the 20^th century’s final year.

With mind-boggling sci-fis, classic teen comedies and animated favourites heading back to the big screen, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy.

Ahead of its time and spawning not one but three sequels, The Matrix will be returning from 8 June. The brainchild of the Wachowskis, it’s hard to believe we were first introduced to Neo and his followers 25 years ago.

Another blockbuster (sand)storming back onto the big screen this summer is The Mummy. Arriving from 6 July, travel back to 1920s Egypt as English librarian Evie, her trickster brother Jonathan and hunky guide Rick accidently unleash a curse which had been laid on the dead High Priest Imhotep for centuries.

Arguably one of the most quotable films in movie history, American Pie is also celebrating its 25^th birthday this year. The ultimate teen movie, starring the iconic Jennifer Coolidge as Stiffler’s mum, will be gracing Vue from 19 July.

One for the family, Toy Story 2 will be flying back onto screens from 20 July. In Pixar’s classic sequel Buzz and his friends vow to rescue Woody, who finds himself stolen by a toy collector, only to discover the idea of immortality in a museum tempting…

Also returning to the big screen will be sci-fi comedy Galaxy Quest (from 21 June) starring Sigourney Weaver, classic rom-com She’s All That (from 29 June) starring Freddie Prinze Jr. and action thriller Deep Blue Sea (from 26 July) starring Samuel L Jackson.

Toby Bradon, general manager at Vue UK & Ireland, said: “Here at Vue we pride ourselves on screening so much more than just blockbusters, as our latest Back on the Big Screen season shows.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years since these classic films were first released. We’re thrilled to be sharing them on the big screen, the way they were meant to be seen.”

For more information or to book tickets visit www.myvue.com

Full listings

The Matrix – From 8 June

Galaxy Quest – From 21 June

She’s All That – From 29 June

The Mummy – From 6 July

American Pie – From 19 July

Toy Story 2 – From20 July

Deep Blue Sea – From26 July

Edinburgh International Film Festival announce Midnight Madness programming strand preview screening of In A Violent Nature

Special preview of daring new horror film will screen at Edinburgh’s Cameo Cinema on Thursday 11 July in celebration of the launch of this year’s EIFF programme and tickets going on sale

The relaunched Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced a special pre-festival, preview midnight screening of Chris Nash’s audacious and utterly thrilling arthouse slasher, In A Violent Nature, on Thursday 11 July.

The screening follows the EIFF programme which will launch on Wednesday 10 July at 5pm, with tickets going on sale at 12 noon on Thursday 11 July.

In A Violent Nature is a viscerally original and breathlessly entertaining dissection of the slasher genre which mashes together the poise of Gus Van Sant with the carnage of Jason Vorhees in a film that approaches its brutally direct story from the killer’s point of view.

Taking place at this year’s cinema hub, the Cameo Cinema on Home Street, one of the original venues for EIFF and home to some of its most iconic moments, the special preview screening of In A Violent Nature will give audiences a taste of EIFF’s brand new Midnight Madness programming strand that will run throughout the festival in August. Tickets to the screening are now on sale via the Cameo Cinema website.

The film had its world premiere at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and will be released by Altitude in the UK and Ireland on Friday 12 July.

EIFF has recently announced that the opening night film of its 2024 festival will be Nora Fingscheidt’s (System Crasher) adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s best-selling memoir, The Outrun, starring Saoirse Ronan (Ladybird, Brooklyn).

Alongside this, EIFF has announced the name of its short film competition as The Thelma Schoonmaker Prize for Short Filmmaking Excellence. Thelma Schoonmaker is celebrated for her iconic work as an editor on landmark moments in cinema history, collaborating on such films as Killers of the Flower Moon and Goodfellas.

The Film Festival encourages general audiences, film fans and industry professionals to make the trip this summer to Edinburgh, which is universally recognised as a place of beauty, history, discovery and adventure.

EIFF Director, Paul Ridd said: ‘The team is so thrilled to be launching Midnight Madness this year as part of the fabric of our new EIFF.

“Each night of the Festival we’ll be launching top notch horror films, action films and comedies from all over the world late into the night, and we can’t wait to announce the line up.

“In the meantime, this taster of the experience at the Cameo will be a total trip. In A Violent Nature is one of the most exciting and original new horror films of the year, and a total joy to experience its gory brilliance with an audience. Bring it on.’

From August 15 to August 21 2024, the 77th edition of EIFF will take place at unique venues in Edinburgh, including Summerhall and the historic Cameo cinema, allowing audiences to seamlessly experience the best of the Fringe along with the world-class programme of cinema at EIFF.

Submissions to EIFF have now closed with more information being found at www.edfilmfest.org.

Helmed by Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, the team aims to create a world-class showcase for independent film and filmmaking talent. Former Acquisitions Executive Ridd is supported by an expanding Board, including Chair Andrew Macdonald of DNA Films, producer of the iconic Edinburgh-based film Trainspotting; Peter Rice, former Chairman of General Entertainment at Disney and President of 21st Century Fox; and Amy Jackson, producer of last year’s BAFTA award-winning indie, Aftersun. EIFF 2024 is supported by Screen Scotland.

The EIFF programme launches on Wednesday 10 July at 5pm, with tickets on sale at 12noon on Thursday 11 July.

Harry Potter fans have to try this Scottish road trip this bank holiday

Experience Harry Potter’s iconic locations in real life with a beautiful Highlands road trip
There are six magical locations to explore, including Glen Etive, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Loch Morar
The Harry Potter road trip takes 7 hours 54 minutes to complete by car

As the fifth most popular filming location in Europe, Scotland has provided a beautiful backdrop for countless Hollywood blockbusters over recent decades.

Harry Potter is perhaps the most famous and beloved of these film series to shoot scenes north of the English border, with stunning Highland scenery featuring across each of the eight exciting instalments.

And, as this franchise has arrived on Netflix and reignited the nation’s love for all things Potter, fans can visit its most iconic filming locations, as Macklin Motors has curated the ultimate road trip route of Scotland for Potterheads.

Taking 8 hours to complete by car, this road trip is perfect for Harry Potter fans who want to feel the magic of their favourite scenes, while taking in beautiful Scottish landscapes at the same time.

The journey starts in the astonishingly beautiful valley of Glen Etive, before driving just over half an hour to Rannoch Moor’s Insta-ready autumnal shades, both of which featured in the Deathly Hallows.

The next stop is Steall Falls, the second highest waterfall in Great Britain, a popular beauty spot that made an appearance in the adrenaline-pumping dragon chase scene in the Goblet of Fire.

Drive 40 minutes further and drivers will find the most iconic Harry Potter filming location in Scotland: Glenfinnan Viaduct. Potterheads will certainly recognise this stunning railway viaduct from the Chamber of Secrets’ unforgettable flying car sequence.

The penultimate stop on the road trip route is Loch Morar, which eagle-eyed fans will immediately recognise as Hogwarts Lake from the Prisoner of Azkaban. Then, a long drive across the Scottish Highlands will reveal the very last filming location on the map: Black Rock Gorge. This stoic cavern featured in the Goblet of Fire, taking centre stage during the Triwizard Tournament.

A Macklin Motors spokesperson commented: “Finding the perfect bank holiday activity for the entire family is always a tricky task.

“With our Harry Potter road trip, we want to provide the best of both worlds for kids and parents alike, touring beautiful Highland hotspots with a magical twist. And with International Harry Potter day on Thursday, there’s no better time to take the trip. Plus, at just under eight hours in total, drivers can complete this road trip in a day or take their time with it throughout their holiday in Scotland.

“So, pack the car with snacks, ready your family’s favourite playlist, and set off on a bewitching adventure around Scotland’s stunning scenery.”

For more filming location road trips around Scotland and to find the Google Maps route for this road trip, visit the Macklin Motors blog.

Cineworld Edinburgh celebrates Danny Boyle with £5 tickets

DANNY BOYLE SEASON FROM MAY 7 – MAY 28
SHALLOW GRAVE CELEBRATES ITS 30 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
TICKETS ONLY £5 AT CINEWORLD, ON SALE NOW

Cineworld, the UK’s leading cinema chain, is to celebrate the acclaimed British director Danny Boyle from May 7th to May 28th with a limited time big screen re-release of four of the Scottish director’s classic titles.

Tickets go on sale from today for these iconic movies that defined Danny Boyle’s career – a rare chance for fans to experience these classics on the big screen, just as they were meant to be seen, all for the affordable price of £5 per ticket.

Exclusive to Cineworld, the films showing nationwide during Danny Boyle Season will be:

May 7: Sunshine – Futuristic sci-fi thriller penned by Alex Garland returns to the big screen starring Cilian Murphy and Chris Evans.
May 14: Shallow Grave – Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Boyle’s dark comic debut feature featuring Ewan McGregor and Christopher Eccleston.

May 21: 28 Days Later – The legendary British zombie movie returns to the big screen. Take in the deserted streets of London and the journey into the unknown…
May 28: Trainspotting – Choose Life. Choose Trainspotting as the iconic gritty cult classic gets a 4K Restoration and will be screened nationwide on May 28th

Stuart Crane, VP of Film Cineworld Group: “Danny Boyle is undeniably one of Britain’s greatest directors, and we’re thrilled to bring back a selection of his most memorable titles to the big screen for only £5.

“Whether you’re eager to relive the mesmerizing sci-fi journey of Sunshine, experiencing the adrenaline-pumping thrills of 28 Days Later for the first time, or indulging in the visually stunning 4k restoration of Trainspotting, there’s a cinematic delight for every taste in this tribute to Danny Boyle.”

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Boyle’s cinematic classics on the big screen and join us in celebrating Danny Boyle Season this May. For tickets and showtimes, please visit cineworld.com or the Cineworld app.

Scotland’s Sean Connery Talent Lab announces first participants

NEW COLLABORATION WITH PRIME VIDEO

The National Film and Television School (NFTS) and the Sean Connery Foundation are delighted to announce the first intake of 26 emerging filmmakers who will join the prestigious Sean Connery Talent Lab, set to begin later this month in Leith.

In an exciting development, the Talent Lab is also proud to welcome Prime Video as its newest collaborator.

Prime Video’s contribution will form part of Prime Video Pathway, the multifaceted training initiative set up by the streamer to open up access to jobs in the TV and film industry across the UK. This marks the expansion of a successful collaboration between Prime Video and the NFTS, running alongside other positive initiatives delivered by the two organisations, such as the Prime Video Craft Academy.

With the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Prime Video will join a wide range of industry organisations, trusts and foundations dedicated to working with the NFTS to foster the next generation of creative talent.

Under the seasoned leadership of renowned Scottish film producer Chris Young, the Sean Connery Talent Lab, named in honour of the legendary Scottish actor and supported by the Sean Connery Foundation, will embark on its mission to discover and nurture a new wave of filmmaking luminaries.

Chris Young, whose legacy includes founding the award-winning Young Films, brings invaluable experience and vision to the Talent Lab, with a career spanning critically acclaimed and award-winning film and television productions including The Inbetweeners.

Following an extensive search for the most promising ‘on the rise’ creative talent across Scotland and the UK, the final 26 participants were selected from hundreds of applicants, with each showcasing a diverse range of skills across writing, directing, producing, cinematography and editing disciplines.

Introducing the Sean Connery Talent Lab Participants:

WRITERS / DIRECTORS

Alex Salam
Cat MacLeod & Lana Phuetan
Josefa Celestin
Mairead Hamilton
Miranda Stern
Ryan Pollock

“To get the chance to bring my short film to life with the support of the Sean Connery Talent Lab is mind-bogglingly thrilling. I hope to come away from the experience a stronger storyteller with a few more industry connections and to have found like-minded creatives with whom I will continue to collaborate long into the future.” – Writer/Director Mairead Hamilton

PRODUCERS

Carys Evans
Isabella Bassett
Katie Mallinder
Katriona Tweedie
Kitty McMurdo-Schad
Saffia Sage
Steven Jeram

“It feels like a full circle moment to have such an icon of Scottish history – Sir Sean Connery – leaving a legacy that I am now a part of. I can’t wait to see how this bolsters Scottish talent and look forward to working with the rest of the cohort on what will undoubtedly be a strong selection of films!” – Producer Kitty McMurdo-Schad

CINEMATOGRAPHERS

Alyson Thompson
Fiann McLeod
Iona Ward
Matt Mead
Simon Williamson
Vasileios Kapnis

“I believe the Sean Connery Talent Lab will accelerate my career as a cinematographer. The opportunity to train on state-of-the-art equipment, collaborate with other up-and-coming filmmakers, and shoot a short film in gorgeous Scotland will be the catalyst I need to propel myself to a more professional level. This experience will mark a major turning point for me.” – Cinematographer Alyson Thompson

EDITORS

CJ Lazaretti
Fraser Ballantyne
Jonathan Ley
Lu Kemp
Roddy McDonald
Sam J Thomson

“I am thrilled to be part of a new cohort, and to collaborate with my colleagues to produce an ambitious body of new work which I hope will magnify the energy and force of Scottish film talent.” – Editor Lu Kemp

The Sean Connery Talent Lab offers a rich curriculum, designed to challenge and inspire these emerging filmmakers. Through hands-on training, mentorship by industry professionals, and collaborative projects, participants will develop their skills, culminating in the creation of six short films, working to a budget of £25,000 per project.

With the support of Prime Video and inaugural supporters BBC Film, the Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films, the projects are set to serve as significant calling cards for the participants, showcasing their talents at film festivals and industry events worldwide.

The Sean Connery Talent Lab is noteworthy for its accessibility, with the Sean Connery Foundation generously underwriting 70% of the fees for each participant. This initiative highlights the commitment of the NFTS and its umbrella of partners, supporters and collaborators to making world leading training accessible to a broad array of aspiring filmmakers.

Jon Wardle, Director of the NFTS commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Prime Video to the Sean Connery Talent Lab.

“Under the leadership of Chris Young, the Lab embodies our shared commitment to nurturing emerging talent across the UK. We are excited to explore the innovative perspectives and contributions these filmmakers will make to the industry, both within Scotland and on the international stage.”

Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab shared his enthusiasm, saying: “The addition of Prime Video as our newest collaborator highlights the broad industry support for the Sean Connery Talent Lab.

“Their involvement, along with our other partners and supporters, underscores a collective commitment to fostering a new generation of filmmakers. I am beyond excited to embark on this journey with our newly selected participants.

“Together, we’re not just kicking off a new programme; we’re launching careers and redefining what’s possible for filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.”

Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “We are so pleased that Prime Video has joined the extraordinary cohort of committed organisations supporting the Sean Connery Talent Lab and we congratulate the first cohort of students on their admission.

“In establishing the Lab, we hope not only to honour Sir Sean’s Scottish roots, but also to expand the opportunities for employment, both above and below the line, by strengthening Scotland’s reputation as a pivotal destination for film and TV production.”

Jason Connery, Ambassador for the Sean Connery Foundation added: “Scotland’s rich heritage, versatile landscapes and dynamic talent have long contributed to its cinematic success, paving the way for ground-breaking storytelling.

“We are so looking forward to getting to know this talented cohort of filmmakers and are excited to see the stories they create over the course of the next year, inspired by their world-class instructors, their surroundings, and each other.”

For more information, go to: nfts.co.uk/sean-connery-talent-lab