SATURDAY 3rd FEBRUARY at WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
PROGRAMME
Something for everyone at North Edinburgh Film Festival
Tag: cinema
Nominees announced for Gaelic short film competition
Luca Kerr from Edinburgh has been nominated for the Inspiration Award for his film ‘Campachadh.’
While some may be eagerly awaiting the Baftas and Oscars, Scotland’s Gaelic communities are busy preparing for Gaelic film’s biggest night of the year: the FilmG Awards.
Over 50 films have been shortlisted for the FilmG Awards, a night celebrating the best Gaelic storytellers and filmmakers in Scotland and beyond. Winners will be crowned in categories such as Best Performance, Best Production Design, Technical Excellence, and the Best Film Award.
Leading the way with four nominations in the Under-18 competition is ‘A Bheil Thu An Sin?’, a psychological drama by the new independent filmmaking group Lost Rollerskate Pictures from Glasgow Gaelic School.
In the Over-18 competition, Inverness charity FC Sonas’s ‘Blàr nan Gàidheal’, which tells the story of the first-ever official football match in Gaelic, also has four nominations, closely followed by Isle of Lewis-based Tormod MacLeod’s funeral farce ‘An Tiodhlaiceadh’ (three nominations).
With the judges’ job now complete, the only categories still to be decided are the FilmG Choice Awards, with the public vote for these categories still open until midnight, 2nd February. Votes can be cast online by the public at www.FilmG.co.uk.
Rachel Kennedy, FilmG Judge and star of hit BBC ALBA drama series An Clò Mòr, said: “It’s been a record-breaking year for FilmG, with over 160 entries – the highest number of submissions since the competition began. The appetite for the competition is brilliant, but it makes our job as judges incredibly difficult as there is so much talent to choose from.
“Our shortlist has been carefully considered and showcases the best Gaelic filmmakers based on production, technical ability, and storytelling. From highly skilled animation to tear-jerking documentaries and cutting-edge dramas, the high level of talent, creativity, and effort has been evident in every film shortlisted, and they are all deserved finalists.”
FilmG Project Manager, Megan Dale, said: “The theme for this year was “Mo Shealladh’ (My Point of View), and all the entrants embraced this by showcasing different perspectives and playing with form. The shortlisted films show a deep understanding of perspective and the importance of listening to Scotland’s multitude of voices.
“The nominees represent different perspectives from all over Scotland, including Thurso, Portree, Glasgow, Harris, Lewis, Dunoon, and Inverness. Often, when we think of the film industry, we picture London or Glasgow, but FilmG shows that a wealth of talent can be found in all corners of Scotland (and beyond) and that it is important to encourage these voices to be heard.”
MG ALBA’s Head of Publishing, Maggie Taylor, said: “Congratulations to all the nominees this year – it’s wonderful to see such a diverse selection of stories and to acknowledge the skill, talent, and enormous technical effort it takes to bring them alive. The Awards night is where this talent can be recognised, and I’m excited to see who will be crowned FilmG winners on 23 February.
“For the first time, the nominees list includes Gaelic filmmakers from the Isle of Man and Canada, showing the international reach of the Gaelic film competition. We hope to continue developing FilmG’s transnational ties and supporting the talented filmmakers emerging across Scotland.”
The FilmG Awards will take place on 23 February in the Lomond Auditorium of Glasgow’s illustrious SEC.
The awards will be live-streamed to YouTube, with a highlights programme to be broadcast two days later on BBC ALBA (Sunday 25 February).
Leading Scottish film producer Chris Young to spearhead Sean Connery Talent Lab
NFTS appoints renowned Scottish film producer and founder of award-winning Young Films to lead the Sean Connery Talent Lab in Edinburgh
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is thrilled to announce acclaimed Scottish film producer and founder of Young Films, Chris Young will lead the inaugural Sean Connery Talent Lab as part of the expansion of NFTS Scotland.
Bringing a wealth of industry expertise and a legacy of close to four decades in filmmaking, Chris will spearhead the transformative 12-month programme aimed at developing emerging filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.
Aspiring writers/directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and production designers have until midnight on 29th January to apply, with the first cohort embarking on their training journey in Leith from April.
To ensure the programme is as accessible to as many people as possible, each of the 30 places are substantially subsidised, with 70% of fees generously underwritten by the Sean Connery Foundation.
Since its inception in 1986, Young Films has become synonymous with critically acclaimed and award-winning productions, spanning feature films and television.
From early successes like Venus Peter and Gregory’s Two Girls to developing The Inbetweeners for Channel 4, with the spin off film, The Inbetweeners Movie becoming the UK’s highest-grossing comedy film, Chris Young has been at the forefront of shaping the Scottish film landscape.
His commitment to fostering talent is evident in initiatives such as the nine-series Scottish Gaelic drama Bannan, created on the Isle of Skye, and the establishment of the Young Films Foundation in 2017, focused on training the next generation of Scottish screenwriters.
The Sean Connery Talent Lab is set to become a cornerstone of the Scottish film industry. In his role as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Chris Young will leverage his extensive experience to guide and mentor 30 emerging creatives as they hone and develop their craft and increase the scale and ambition of their work. They will bring to life their own unique short films, made with the support of BBC Film.
The NFTS has partnered with the Sean Connery Foundation for the Sean Connery Talent Lab and it is supported by a wide range of other industry partners, trusts and foundations who have pledged their support to underpin the programme with additional funding, bursaries and scholarships.
BBC Film is the production partner with several other partners joining the Talent Lab including: The Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films.
After 12 intensive months, the Sean Connery Talent Lab will culminate in the creation of six short films that will serve as powerful industry ‘calling cards’, offering an invaluable launchpad for the 30 talented individuals to make their mark on the world of film.
The final films will be submitted for both UK and international film festivals and will premiere at a prestigious showcase event, with industry figures from across Scotland, the UK and beyond invited to attend the screenings.
Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be awarded an NFTS Diploma in Filmmaking.
Jon Wardle, NFTS Director said:“We are delighted to welcome Chris Young as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.
“This is an exceptional opportunity for the brightest talents in Scottish filmmaking to harness their unique creative voices and under the guidance of Chris, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to make a lasting impression on the Scottish creative industry and beyond.”
Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab commented: “For over 35 years, my unwavering passion has been to cultivate, sustain, and champion new talent in Scotland.
“This journey began with the establishment of Young Films, and I am thrilled to continue this mission by leading the Sean Connery Talent Lab in collaboration with the NFTS.
“The Lab represents an exciting opportunity to usher in a dynamic new generation of world-class filmmakers in Scotland, spanning crucial disciplines. Much like the NFTS has done over the years, and continues to do, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry.
“To all those with talent and aspirations to contribute to the vibrant Film and TV landscape in Scotland, I wholeheartedly encourage you to apply. This Lab is more than just a programme; it’s a game-changer for Scotland, and its impact will reverberate across the industry for years to come.”
Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “Chris Young’s infectious energy, connections across industry, and demonstrated commitment to launching breakthrough talent make him the ideal choice as the inaugural leader of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.”
Jason Connery added: “We are so grateful to our partners who have come onboard, and we are keen to meet the first group of creators when the Talent Lab kicks off in the Spring.”
Applications for the Sean Connery Talent Lab will close at midnight on Monday 29th January 2024.
For more information on how to apply and for eligibility criteria, go to:
Barbenheimer DIY double bill returns to Vue this weekend as both films receive Oscar nominations
Film fans are in for a treat this weekend, with two of 2023’s biggest films – Barbie and Oppenheimer – returning to Vue sites in Edinburgh.
This week saw both films securing an impressive 21 Oscar nominations between them. Together, they created the cultural phenomenon ‘Barbenheimer’ – a huge moment not just in cinema, but in pop culture as a whole.
It was revealed on Tuesday (23 January) that Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is up for 13 gongs, while Greta Gerwig’s Barbie is not far behind with eight.
To celebrate the impressive feat, film fans will once again be able to enjoy a DIY double feature of both titles at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Vue Edinburgh Ocean this Saturday.
Toby Bradon, General Manager at Vue UK & Ireland, said: ‘We’re thrilled to be welcoming back not one but two great blockbusters on Saturday 27 January and can’t wait to relive the magical movie moments from Great Gerwig and Christopher Nolan.
‘Both films performed brilliantly at the Golden Globes, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for them at this year’s Oscars.’
Tickets start from just £7.99 when booked online. Visit myvue.com to find out more.
Vue Edinburgh Omni unveils luxury recliners following recent refurb
Film lovers in Edinburgh are now able to experience the latest upgrades in big screen entertainment as Vue Edinburgh Omni completes its major refurbishment project, installing luxury recliner seating in all 12 screens onsite.
Set within the Edinburgh Omni Shopping Centre in the heart of the Scottish capital, the eagerly awaited transformation includes 976 luxury leather recliner seats – all of which come complete with a fold away table and cup holder.
Customers can escape to luxury while enjoying the latest blockbuster releases this December, including Wonka and Aquaman: The Lost Kingdom in 4k quality and Digital Dolby surround site.
To mark the launch of Wonka, the cinema chain has also launched a limited-edition Bubblegum Tango Ice Blast flavour, as well as installing an exclusive Wonka themed backdrop – perfect for capturing a sweet selfie with family and friends during a visit to Vue Edinburgh Omni.
The recent completion of Edinburgh Omni means both Vue sites, including Vue Edinburgh Ocean, are now fully installed with luxury recliner seatings – providing premium comfort for film fans to get lost in the big screen entertainment.
Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “We are thrilled to unveil our brand new luxury recliner seating across all 12 screens on site – the transformation will allow film fans to enjoy a fantastic trip to the big screen in the best seats possible.
“Our customers can expect to enjoy the very best in big screen entertainment including the latest blockbusters, classic titles and the best in live music, sport and theatre, all from the comfort of our signature recliner seating.”
Tickets are available now, with every film, every day available from £7.99 when booked online. More information and tickets are available at:
The Top 10 Feel-Good Movies for Adults: A Psychologist’s Take
In a world that often seems filled with challenges and stressors, films targeted at an adult audience can offer not just entertainment, but also valuable psychological insights and a much-needed escape from the same old festive films …
Orange County CBD have teamed up with psychologist James Williams, who picked out 10 feel-good movies for adults, each chosen for their unique psychological insights and their ability to uplift and inspire:
The Grand Budapest Hotel
Psychological Insight:
This whimsical yet profound film illustrates the beauty of friendship and loyalty in a visually stunning and quirky way. It underscores the importance of human connections and the memories we create with others.
Silver Linings Playbook
Psychological Insight:
A candid look at mental health issues, this film highlights the power of optimism and finding the ‘silver lining’ in tough situations. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding, compassion, and accepting one’s flaws.
Lost in Translation
Psychological Insight:
This film explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the search for meaning in life. It beautifully captures the psychological journey of finding solace and understanding in unexpected places.
Little Miss Sunshine
Psychological Insight:
This dark comedy deftly balances humor with serious themes, exploring the complexities of family life and individual struggles. It highlights the psychological importance of acceptance, support, and unconditional love within a family.
Amélie
Psychological Insight:
A charming and visually rich film, Amélie explores the joy of small things and the impact of kindness. It shows the psychological benefits of altruism and its uplifting effects on mental health.
Garden State
Psychological Insight:
This film delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, and the search for authenticity. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the journey towards understanding oneself and forming genuine connections.
Midnight in Paris
Psychological Insight:
A magical realist journey into the world of nostalgia and the allure of a ‘golden age.’ It offers a psychological exploration of the dangers of romanticizing the past at the expense of the present.
The Intouchables
Psychological Insight:
This heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship showcases the transformative power of human connection and empathy. It highlights how breaking down social and physical barriers can lead to fulfilling and life-changing relationships.
Sideways” (2004)
Psychological Insight:
A nuanced exploration of midlife crises, friendship, and personal growth. It demonstrates the psychological process of coping with disappointment and the journey towards self-acceptance.
Her
Psychological Insight:
This unique film offers a meditation on love, loss, and the human need for connection in an increasingly digital world. It explores the psychological impacts of technology on relationships and the nature of intimacy.
Each of these films, while catering to an adult audience, offers a deep dive into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. They are not just movies; they’re experiences that resonate on a psychological level, providing both entertainment and a chance for introspection and emotional growth.
Through their narratives, these films remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of human connections, and the endless possibilities that life offers, making them perfect for those seeking a feel-good experience with depth and maturity.
Edinburgh cinema fans’ festive chance to raise funds for the homeless
Christmas cinemagoers in Edinburgh get the chance to enjoy a new heart-warming animated short film this month and raise funds for the homeless.
The Scotsman Picturehouse on North Bridge, The Cameo Cinema in Home Street and the Dominion Cinema on Newbattle Terrace are among cinemas all over Scotland showing Scottish author Angela Proctor’s festive story Arthur’s Christmas Tale.
Angela, who writes under the name AH Proctor, initially crafted the story as a poem highlighting kindness and homelessness for schoolchildren doing a charity sleep-in.
The tale of a brave little dog defying a Scrooge-like misery guts who despises Christmas was so successful that she has now transformed it into a short film, Arthur’s Christmas Tale, to raise funds for Shelter Scotland.
The animation features a little pug, Arthur, who encounters cold-hearted Jack Frost as he watches over his homeless master, James, sleeping on cardboard in the snow. The little dog wins over the icy, stranger with an act of kindness demonstrating the true spirit of Christmas.
“I love Christmas, I’m a big kid at heart, although I’m not really interested in presents,” says Angela, also a successful businesswoman, mentor and mother.
“It’s family time I love and togetherness and spending time with loved ones is what is reflected in Arthur’s Christmas Tale. The little dog is happy because he’s with James whom he loves unconditionally. He feels sorry for Jack Frost because he’s all alone, so sorry in fact that he gives him the only possession he has in the whole world – a shiny white bone, so that Jack doesn’t feel so alone anymore.
“It’s a poignant message and I’m hoping it will resonate with cinemagoers, where it is being shown during trailers throughout December, and help raise much-needed funds for Shelter Scotland.”
Sharryn McKelvie, Shelter Scotland Senior Community Fundraising Area Manager said: “This is a fantastic initiative by Angela at a time of year that can be full of despair for those without a home.
“We hope that those lucky enough to enjoy quality time in the warmth of a cinema will think about others less fortunate and donate what they can to help make sure no one has to fight the threat of homelessness alone.
“Shelter Scotland exists to defend the right to a safe home and fight the devastating impact the housing emergency has on people and society. Shelter Scotland believes that home is everything.
“As of 31 March 2023, there were 15,039 households in temporary accommodation, 9,595 of them children, the highest number recorded. Between April 2022 and March 2023, another 32,242 households became homeless – the equivalent of a household losing their home every 16 minutes.”
Angela, from the East End of Glasgow, who is best known for her Thumble Tumble series of stories for children, was determined to support art in Scotland by ensuring that all those involved in creating the film came from small, aspiring Scottish companies. She worked with Glasgow-based independent animation studio Clubhouse Animations and StrangeWorx Productions.
Arthur’s Christmas Tale is being shown in independent cinemas from Inverness to Dumfries throughout this month. Visitors will be able to donate via the Shelter Scotland Giving Page or by donating cash to collection buckets at cinemas across Scotland.
Immerse yourself in the chocolatey world of Wonka in 4DX at Cineworld
Cineworld are delighted to invite film fans to experience the4DX version of Wonka which will feature an all new special limited edition chocolate scent sure to transport viewers into Wonka’s world.
As an added bonus to celebrate the release of Wonka starring Timothée Chalamet, Cineworld is offering 4DX customers a sweet deal with a free chocolate scented scratch-and-sniff Wonka poster inspired by the unique limited chocolate smell experienced in 4DX.
The enchanting tale focuses on the origins of Roald Dahl’s iconic character, Willy Wonka, and boasts a star-studded cast including Timothée Chalamet, Hugh Grant, Rowan Atkinson and Olivia Colman.
Only at Cineworld in the UK and Ireland, the 35 4DX sites offer film fans an exhilarating experience that dives into the magical adventure like never before.
It’s not just the sweet smell of chocolate which will enliven the senses, as 4DX has effects like snow, wind and water timed to enhance the scenes playing out on screen so you feel like you’re discovering the magic of chocolate right along with Wonka and his friends. With musical numbers galore and magical elements in abundance, the 4DX seats will roll, sway and shake so it’s like you’re right there dancing, jumping and swimming along.
Casey Cohen, Head of Marketing at Cineworld Cinemas, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome movie lovers across the country to watch one of the most eagerly anticipated releases of the year.
“Wonka in 4DX is a treat for all the senses – the chocolate and candy scents will transport you into the world of Wonka while the dynamic 4DX effects for the film including snow, wind and water will make you feel like you’re living the adventure. As Wonka himself says, prepare to be amazed…!”
Cineworld is giving film fanatics across the nation the opportunity to watch the star-studded blockbuster in 4DX as well as additional formats with tickets now available from the Cineworld website or the Cineworld app.
Beyonce’s concert film to hit Vue Edinburgh next month
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Music fans will be thrilled to discover that they can enjoy the much-anticipated RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ on the big screen from 1st December.
With just weeks to go until the world premiere of the film on 30 November, tickets are now on sale at Vue Edinburgh Ocean and Vue Edinburgh Omni – with prices starting from just £14.99 when booked online.
RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ will be arriving at Vue Edinburgh Ocean and Vue Edinburgh Omni on Friday 1 December, with multiple screenings showing throughout the month.
Having started the first leg of her tour in Europe earlier this year, Beyonce played five sold-out gigs at Tottenham Stadium, London, in May and June.
Those who missed out on tickets – which ranged from £55 to £2,400 for VIP experiences – or fans who want to relive the experience can now catch a piece of the action at Vue Edinburgh Ocean and Vue Edinburgh Omni for a fraction of the price.
A combination of documentary and live footage from the show, RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ will give members of the BeyHive a chance to live and breathe the entire journey of the Renaissance World Tour from the best seat in the house.
Tapping into the anticipated Beyonce mania, Vue Edinburgh Ocean and Vue Edinburgh Omni will be offering limited edition merchandise.
Beyonce’s Renaissance album topped the charts this summer, garnering critical acclaim and saw the mega-star break the record for the most Grammys ever won.
Robert Smith, General Manager for Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: ‘Following on from the success of Taylor Swift’s concert film, which is still screening at Vue, it looks as if the success of Beyonce’s album and tour are going to be continued with the release of RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ.
‘It’s been brilliant to see the growing buzz since the film’s announcement and we’re thrilled to be welcoming Beyonce to Vue venues in Edinburgh this December for what will no doubt be a must-see for music fans.’
To book tickets, visit: www.myvue.com
FOUR SPOOKY SHOWINGS AT FORT KINNAIRD ODEON THIS HALLOWEEN
The Exorcist: Believer
When two girls disappear into the woods and return three days later with no memory of what happened to them, the father of one girl seeks out Chris MacNeil, who’s been forever altered by what happened to her daughter fifty years ago.
Saw X
Set between the events of SAW I and II, a sick and desperate John travels to Mexico for a risky and experimental medical procedure in hopes of a miracle cure for his cancer – only to discover the entire operation is a scam to defraud the most vulnerable.
A Haunting in Venice
In post-World War II Venice, Poirot, now retired and living in his own exile, reluctantly attends a seance. But when one of the guests is murdered, it is up to the former detective to once again uncover the killer.
Five Nights At Freddy’s
The film follows a troubled security guard as he begins working at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. While spending his first night on the job, he realises the night shift at Freddy’s won’t be so easy to make it through.
For more information, please visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/cinema