Anime fans are in for a treat this summer as a trio of visually stunning films head to the big screen ahead of tickets going on sale for the most anticipated anime movie of the year, Demon Slayer – The Movie: Infinity Castle.
Landing on 12 September, the eagerly awaited sequel sees demon slayer trio Tanjiro, Zenitsu and Inosuke return to face their most harrowing trials yet, in a film that blends heart-pounding action, emotional intensity, and breathtaking animation.
For fans that can’t wait until September for their anime fix, Vue Edinburgh Omni is showing two titles from visionary director Mamoru Hosoda: Summer Wars and Wolf Children. Both films have been newly remastered in 4K, offering both longtime fans and new viewers the chance to witness these classics as never seen before.
Arriving on 3 August, Summer Wars tells the story of a shy math genius who unwittingly unleashes a rogue AI threatening the world’s digital infrastructure.
As he races to fix the chaos, he’s drawn into the turbulent but loving world of his friend’s extended family. Hosoda’s dazzling animation, pulse pounding virtual sequences, and timely message about connection and technology make this re-release a must see on the big screen.
Returning on 17 August is the emotional tale of love, loss, and growing up, Wolf Children. It follows the journey of a young woman raising two children who are half–human, half–wolf. Spanning over a decade, the story captures the challenges of motherhood, identity, and acceptance.
The remastered edition enhances every frame of Hosoda’s heartfelt masterpiece, bringing new depth to its themes and visuals.
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Colorful Stage! The Movie: A Miku Who Can’t Sing will hit screens on 31 August. In this bold new chapter of the Hatsune Miku phenomenon, fans are introduced to a version of the iconic virtual idol who has lost her ability to sing.
Set in a world where music shapes reality, Miku must rediscover her voice through friendship, creativity, and emotional resilience. Blending vibrant musical performances with a moving narrative, this is an unforgettable cinematic experience for both longtime Miku fans and newcomers alike.
Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “The anime fandom continues to grow here in the UK, and we’re proud to be part of that community.
Studios put their heart into every frame – from the breathtaking animation to the thoughtful scripts, musical scores, and emotional depth – and we recognise that watching anime isn’t just about the visuals on screen; it’s about the atmosphere, the sound, and the feeling of being completely immersed in a story.
“That’s why we’re so excited to be screening these films as they were meant to be seen – on the big screen.”
Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) is pleased to welcome legendary British filmmaker Ken Loach and his longtime creative collaborators, writer Paul Laverty and producer Rebecca O’Brien, for a special In Conversation event at this year’s Festival.
The trio will discuss the acclaimed films they have created together over the years including Palme D’Or Winners The Wind That Shakes The Barley (2006) and I, Daniel Blake (2016). The event takes place on Wednesday 20 August at 11am at Tollcross Central Hall.
This event will then be followed by a special retrospective screening of the filmmakers’ 2006 Palme D’Or winning film The Wind That Shakes The Barley. Starring Cillian Murphy, the film is a heartfelt and stirring epic exploring the rift that emerges between two brothers who find themselves fighting against one another in the conflict over Irish independence in the early 1920s.
Presented from a 35mm print, this screening will be preceded by a special introduction by the filmmakers. The event takes place on Wednesday 20 August at 1.30pm in Filmhouse Screen 1.
Tickets are now on sale for both events via the EIFF website.
EIFF’s In Conversation strand also features a range of other major filmmaking talent who will discuss their creative careers to date including director Kevin Macdonald (The Last King of Scotland, Touching the Void, One to One: John & Yoko) speaking with his brother, producerAndrew Macdonald (Trainspotting, Civil War, 28 Years Later), in a wide ranging conversation about filmmaking and their respective careers. Kevin will also present a screening of The Cranes are Flying (1957), a film which has heavily influenced his work.
Trailblazing filmmaker Nia Da Costa will discuss her acclaimed work which spans independent film, horror sequels and major studio comic book adaptations including The Marvels, Candyman and upcoming film 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Nia will also present a special 4K restoration of Doug Liman’s 90s black comedy Go, a film that was a source of early inspiration for her.
From breakout horror thriller Kill List to EIFF Midnight Madness Opening Film Bulk, via hilarious black comedy Sightseers and many more, filmmaker Ben Wheatley and long time producing partner Andy Starke will discuss their collaborations and their working dynamic.
Award-winning writer and director Andrea Arnold is one of the UK’s most outstanding filmmakers. She will discuss her searing debut feature Red Road (2006), also screening at EIFF this year, which won the BAFTA Award for Outstanding Debut, along with her critically acclaimed work such as Fish Tank, American Honey, Cow and, most recently, Bird.
Legendary producer Jeremy Thomas (Eureka, 13 Assassins, Sexy Beast) will discuss his long and varied career, which includes collaborations with Nicolas Roeg, Takeshi Miike and Jonathan Glazer, in a conversation with filmmaker Mark Cousins (A Sudden Glimpse to Deeper Things, The Story of Film, The Storms of Jeremy Thomas). Jeremy Thomas will also introduce a special 35mm screening of Nicolas Roeg’s Bad Timing (1980), one of his earliest films.
Edinburgh International Film Festival will run from 14-20 August 2025. Building on EIFF’s reinvigorated vision under new leadership from CEO and Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, the Festival will continue to accelerate the discovery of new film talent and engage with audiences, industry members and local, national and international media.
The Festival team aims to create a world-class showcase for independent film and filmmaking talent. Ridd is supported by the EIFF Board, led by Chair Andrew Macdonald of DNA Films, producer of the iconic Edinburgh-based film Trainspotting; and Vice Chair Amy Jackson, producer of BAFTA award-winning indie, Aftersun; as well as Peter Rice, former Chairman of General Entertainment at Disney and President of 21st Century Fox; Teresa Moneo, Former Director of UK Film, Netflix; Isla Macgillivray, Partner at Saffrey; and Romana Ramzan, Producer at No Code Studio.
Paul Ridd, CEO & Festival Director, said: “It is a great honour for us to welcome Ken Loach, Paul Laverty and Rebecca O’Brien for what promises to be a lively and fascinating discussion of their work together, with two Palme D’Ors to their names and a body of work that includes ferociously powerful films produced across decades.
“We are also delighted to be presenting one of their major films THE WIND THAT SHAKES THE BARLEY from a 35mm print. It is a genuine thrill to be able to add this formidable trio to a roster of speakers at EIFF in a programme of In Conversation events which already includes Jeremy Thomas, Nia Da Costa, Andrew and Kevin Macdonald, Andrea Arnold and Ben Wheatley.”
Brits take a nostalgic look back to the 80s on Live Aid’s 40th anniversary
Survey reveals Brits’ most-loved 1980s songs, shows and memories.
Research also reveals average ticket prices for concert-goers have increased by over 500%.
Simple pleasures like ‘being able to call the doctor directly’ and ‘life without social media’ are much-missed.
Research* conducted by Ambassador Cruise Line has stepped back in time encouraging Brits to reflect on their favourite cultural moments from the 80s and reveal what they miss most about the era.
To mark the 40th anniversary of Live Aid on 13 July 2025, the affordable quality cruise line – which is staging a six-night Summer of ‘85 Revisited tribute cruise departing Bristol on Sunday# – asked the nation to share their thoughts on the music, TV and memories that defined a generation*.
From Wham! to Woolworths, caravan holidays to cassette tapes, the results paint a vivid picture of a decade that continues to resonate deeply with the Great British public.
From the silver screen to the radio waves, the 1980s delivered an explosion of creativity that people still just can’t get enough of. When asked to name their favourite entertainment from the era, responses from Brits read like a ‘who’s who?’ of zeitgeist-defining pop culture.
Going for a Song
13 July 2025 is set to mimic 13 July 2025 with blue skies and soaring temperatures, but when it comes to the nation’s most beloved 80s track by a British or Irish artist, it’s Christmas all year round with Wham!’s ‘Last Christmas’ named the UK’s favourite song according to the research.
There was a four-way tie for second place in the 80s Top 10, with ‘In The Air Tonight’ by Phil Collins – famed for playing both the Wembley and Philadelphia Live Aid shows – followed by Queen’s ‘A Kind of Magic’, taken from the Album of the same name after a Live Aid-driven ‘renaissance’; Bonnie Tyler’s ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ (originally written for Meat Loaf); and Chris de Burgh’s ‘Lady in Red’ taking up the remaining spots.
The Nation’s Favourite 80s Songs
1
Wham!
Last Christmas
1984
2
Phil Collins
In the Air Tonight
1981
3
Queen
A Kind of Magic
1986
4
Bonnie Tyler
Total Eclipse of the Heart
1983
5
Chris Be Burgh
Lady in Red
1986
6
Band Aid
Do They Know It’s Christmas
1984
7
George Michael
Careless Whisper
1984
8
Pet Shop Boys
West End Girls
1986
9
Dexys Midnight Runners
Come on Eileen
1982
10
Queen & David Bowie
Under Pressure
1981
TV Gold
On the small screen, the antics of everyone’s favourite wheeler dealers in Only Fools and Horses reigned supreme, with long-running perennial staples like Doctor Who and EastEnders following closely behind.
Gender preferences revealed that men leaned toward action and bawdy comedies like The A-Team and Blackadder, while women preferred dramas and music-based shows like EastEnders and Top of the Pops.
The Nation’s Favourite TV Show of the 80s
1
Only Fools and Horses
1981-2003
2
Doctor Who
1963-1989; 2005-present
3
EastEnders
1985-present
4
Blackadder
1983-1989
5
The A-Team
1983-1987
6
Top of the Pops
1964-2006
7
Dad’s Army
1968-1977
8
The Young Ones
1982-1984
9
Grange Hill
1978-2008
10
The Two Ronnies
1971–1987
Firm Film Favourites
The survey found that the magic of 80s movies hasn’t faded one bit over the last 40 years. Brits are still having the time of their lives with Dirty Dancing (1987), dubbing it their favourite film of the decade – with a notable 18% of women giving it top billing.
Action-packed blockbusters and feel-good favourites also made a strong showing, with Top Gun, The Karate Kid, E.T., Back to the Future and Die Hard proving that the 80s were a golden age for unforgettable storytelling, iconic characters and endlessly quotable lines.
The Nation’s Favourite 80s Movies
1
Dirty Dancing
1987
2
The Karate Kid
1984
3
Top Gun
1986
4
Back to the Future
1985
5
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
1982
6
Die Hard
1988
7
Ghostbusters
1984
8
The Terminator
1984
9
The Goonies
1985
10
Beetlejuice
1988
Live Aid Memories: Who Wants to Live Forever?
With Live Aid celebrating its 40th anniversary, the survey asked the British public which moment from the day that ‘rock and roll changed the world’ they’d most like to experience again. The most common responses included ‘Status Quo opening it with ‘Rockin’ All Over The World’; ‘Phil Collins on Concorde’; Paul McCartney performing ‘Let it Be’; David Bowie singing ‘Heroes’; and last, but not least, ‘Bob Geldof’s sweary rant’.
However, it will come as a surprise to absolutely nobody that Queen’s ‘electrifying’ performance ‘which showed other bands how to play to a live crowd’ topped the poll by a considerable margin. ‘Freddie had the audience in the palm of his hand’ just about sums up the responses, making it clear there’s one band (and more specifically, one moustachioed maestro often cited as the greatest frontman to have ever lived) that people just can’t break free from…
Top Ten Live Aid Moments – Quotes
1
One of the best live displays ever – the Queen performance and Freddie Mercury having 100,000 people in the palm of his hand. Awesome!
2
Status Quo opening it with Rockin’ All Over the World
3
Bob Geldof’s sweary rant
4
The sense of togetherness for my family and friends
5
When Phil Collins performed in the UK then flew to the USA and performed there
6
The enjoyment of all the bands coming together for the good of others
7
Paul McCartney singing Let It Be
8
U2 – Bono was brilliant!
9
David Bowie’s magnificent set and his emotional rendition of ‘Heroes’ – simply amazing
10
The incredible amount of money raised for a good cause
Counting the Cost of Legends Live
With many Live Aid performers still touring today, Ambassador compared their ticket prices from the 1980s to the 2020s, and the results are staggering.
The comparison shows just how far the music industry has come – and how the era-defining acts of the 80s are still as relevant and popular today as they were 40 years ago, even if a ticket to see them play live has soared in price!
1980s Ticket Prices:
Queen (1986 – Wembley) – £25
U2 (1987 – Joshua Tree Tour) – £15
Genesis (1986 – Invisible Touch Tour) – £15-£20
Madonna (1987 – Who’s That Girl Tour) – £15
Paul McCartney (1989/90 – The Paul McCartney World Tour) – £20
Phil Collins (1985 – No Jacket Required Tour) – £15
Dire Straits (1985 – Brothers in Arms Tour) – £16
Duran Duran (1984 – Sing Blue Silver Tour) – £12
The Rolling Stones (1982 – Tattoo You Tour) – £18
Simple Minds (1985 – Once Upon A Time Tour) – £12
2020s Ticket Prices:
Queen + Adam Lambert (2023 – The Rhapsody Tour) – £100+ – 300% increase
U2 (2023 – The Sphere Tour) – £120 – 700% increase
Genesis (2022 – The Last Domino? Tour) – £80+ 355% increase
Madonna (2023 – Celebration Tour) – £150+ – 900% increase
Paul McCartney (2024 – Got Back Tour) – £110 – 450% increase
Phil Collins (2023 – Not Dead Yet Tour) – £85+ – 467% increase
Dire Straits (2023 – Mark Knopfler Tour) – £100 – 525% increase
Duran Duran (2023 – Future Past Tour) – £75 – 525% increase
The Rolling Stones (2022 – No Filter Tour) – £130 – 622% increase
Simple Minds (2022 – 40 years Of Hits) – £70 – 483% increase
(Prices based on average tickets with two time periods compared to find mean percentage increases)
Get Back! (to where we once belonged…)
Last, but by no means least, when asked what aspects of 1980’s life they’d most like to bring back to today, Brits overwhelmingly longed for the simplicity and personal connections we enjoyed ‘back in the day’.
The most missed element of daily life was the ability to call the doctor directly to book an appointment, cited by 37% of respondents. This was closely followed by a desire to return to a time of greater respect for elders (34%) and life without the pressures of social media (33%). Nostalgia for the high street was also strong, with 29% wishing for the return of staples like Woolworths.
The survey also revealed a deep affection for holidays in the 1980s, which many respondents described as “simple,” “cheaper,” and “more family-focussed.”
Caravan parks, Butlins, and classic UK beach breaks were frequently mentioned, evoking memories of a slower pace and stronger sense of togetherness.
One respondent recalled “less faff in airports, less pressure to ‘go places’,” while another opined, “We loved caravan holidays. We actually spoke to each other.”.
A brand-new musical outing starring everyone’s favourite CBeebies characters is arriving at cinemas this summer.
Featuring a star-studded cast – including Justin Fletcher, Maddie Moate, and Andy Day – CBeebies Musical: The Great Ice Cream Hunt promises to add a sprinkling of joy to the holidays.
Showing in 300 cinemas nationwide, the film is arriving from July 11. The musical is an original piece that includes song performances that are exclusive to the cinema and the big screen. The hour-long special won’t be appearing on the small screens until later this year.
The musical tale follows Lolly the cow and Pinecone the hedgehog as they investigate the disappearance of ice cream across the land.
During their adventure, the pair befriend Storyland Rangers at Coconut Cove, learn magical moves at Mermaid Falls and help a stressed-out caterpillar find his voice at the Summer Fruits Festival. But when they finally catch up with their prime suspect – the rain-loving Professor Raindrop – things aren’t quite what they seem…
Eve Gabereau, Director of Distribution at Vue Lumiere, said: “After bringing two bumper collections of Bluey to cinemas up and down the country, we can’t wait to showcase this original musical treat from CBeebies to young fans.
“It’s a great continuation of our work with the BBC and their Children & Family content on the big screen.”
To mark the arrival of the highly anticipated relaunch of Superman, Vue is holding an extra special screening of the film – with those who book the slot taking home a very special piece of comic book history.
Taking place during the film’s opening weekend, on Friday 11 July, there will be just one Superman Hero Screening at Vue venues in Edinburgh and every booking for the limited screening will come with a copy of All Star Superman No.1 – the comic that inspired James Gunn’s new take on the Man of Steel – to pick up on the day.
Tickets for the screening are available to book now however the offer will only be available while stocks last.
The film introduces David Corenswet as Clark Kent (Pearl and Hollywood) and Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) asLois Lane, alongside a whole new roster of DC characters.
The latest superhero outing has fans excited for what is expected bold new take on the franchise – with Superman as you’ve never seen him before.
Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Ocean, said: “We know how excited audiences are for James Gunn’s interpretation of Superman.
“This exclusive screening gives fans the rare opportunity to take home a special piece of cinematic history – the very comic issue that helped shape the film’s story.”
The All Star Superman No.1 giveaway is one comic per booking – not per ticket – and only applies to tickets purchased for the Superman Hero Screening on 11 July.
For the avoidance of doubt this does not apply to Superman screenings without the ‘Hero Screening’ tag.
From 27 June, Edinburgh’s landmark cinema Filmhouse will re-open its doors with a hand-picked programme of the very best films the cinema missed out on playing during the venue’s two-and-a-half-year closure.
The programme will have a strong emphasis on films that did not screen in the city because of its absence. Tickets are on sale now via the Filmhouse website.
Filmhouse has long been celebrated as a cultural cornerstone, showcasing world cinema in all its brilliance and diversity, from crowd-pleasing favourites and to avant-garde arthouse works, restored classics, and curated retrospectives.
The first film to welcome audiences back to the venue will be the much-loved film gem and ode to the beauty of the cinemagoing experience, Giuseppe Tornatore’s Cinema Paradiso (1988).
On opening weekend, audiences can also enjoy Martyn Robertson’s acclaimed new film Make It To Munich, an inspiring documentary which follows 18-year-old Ethan Walker, who just months after nearly losing his life in an accident, embarks on a 1200km cycle ride to Munich for Scotland’s Euros opening game against Germany.
Ethan himself will attend a special Q&A screening on Filmhouse’s opening day, alongside the film’s director Martyn Robertson and former Motherwell, Chelsea, Everton and Scotland winger Pat Nevin.
Edinburgh based filmmaker Matt Palmer will present a free double-bill of his gutsy thriller Calibre (2018) starring Jack Lowden and Tony Curran alongside his hit horror Fear Street: Prom Queen (2025) which debuted at No.1 on Netflix on its release earlier in the year and will have its first ever public cinema screening at Filmhouse. Matt will also take part in a Q&A after the screening.
Lotte Reiniger’s classic feature length paper cut animation The Adventures of Prince Achmed (1926)will screen in a special event soundtracked with live music by Edinburgh based musical improvisers and innovators S!nk in a transportive performance filled with swirling, spiralling strings, saxophones, accordion, percussion and voices.
Also screening at the cinema are a selection of recent acclaimed films from around the world from new and established filmmakers including Payal Kapadia’s soulful All We Imagine As Light, Sébastien Marnier’s thrilling Origin of Evil, Christian Petzold’s riveting Afire, Gints Zilbalodis’s enchanting animation Flow, Hlynur Pálmason’s nuanced drama Godland, Alice Rohrwacher’s radically adventurous film La Chimera, Maryam Moghadam & Behtash Sanaeeha’s joyous My Favourite Cake, Mario Martone’s brilliantly shot Nostalgia, Rodrigo Sorogoyen’s tense thriller The Beasts, Ilker Çatak’s uncompromising TheTeachers’ Lounge, Alexandre de La Patellière & Matthieu Delaporte energetic take on Count of Monte Cristo, Manuela Martelli’s compelling noir 1976, Víctor Erice’s mysterious Close Your Eyes, Robert Zemeckis’s Here and Celine Song’s acclaimed Past Lives.
70mm engagements at the cinema will include Brady Corbet’s award-winning The Brutalistand Christopher Nolan’s epic Oppenheimer alongsideRobert Egger’sNosferatuon 35mm.
More upcoming screenings will be announced via Filmhouse socials soon.
Alongside this, the cinema will also screen events such as National Theatre Live for the first time, with more details to be confirmed in the coming months. Details of Filmhouse’s involvement with this year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival are yet to be announced .
With, ultimately, a total capacity of 340 seats, Filmhouse is set to once again become a hub for film enthusiasts, offering a cutting-edge cinematic experience, a vibrant social space, and a platform for film lovers and filmmakers to engage with the very best in global cinema.
Previously a three-screen venue, the new Filmhouse will become a four-screen cinema and soon will be unveiling a fourth screen with a capacity of 24, allowing for an even more expansive programme, as well as being available for private screenings and hires.
Filmhouse’s technical capabilities include 70mm, 35mm, 16mm, 8mm, and digital projection. The cinema also includes a Clipster Unit for creating Digital Cinema Packages (DCPs) required for festival and theatrical distribution.
Comfort has been prioritised across the new Filmhouse. Film-lovers can expect extra legroom and comfortable seats across the cinema’s screens, alongside a completely reworked foyer space.
Built in a repurposed church on Edinburgh’s Lothian Road, Filmhouse has been a cinematic landmark since 1978. Following a £2 million refurbishment, Scotland’s leading independent cinema Filmhouse returns with new leadership, a vision which builds on the venue’s legacy as a space for learning and discovery, and a commitment to building a sustainable future for this iconic cultural landmark.
The completely refurbished Filmhouse Bar will be able to seat 100 people for lunch and dinner, with drinks available throughout the day, catering for the many communities who enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere, and placing an emphasis on produce from Edinburgh and Scotland, offering great food and drink alongside environmental sustainability. Filmhouse fans will be pleased to know that the cinema’s world-famous nachos are staying put too.
The cinema will announce new membership offers and multiple-tier ticket pricing over the next few weeks.
Following its closure in October 2022, the reopening of Filmhouse marks the culmination of a three-year long campaign to save the historic cinema backed by film lovers in Edinburgh, Scotland, and around the world and by A-list film talent including patrons Jack Lowden and Charlotte Wells, as well as Dougray Scott, Brian Cox, and Emma Thompson.
The stage is set, the screens are ready, and the story of Filmhouse continues.
Rod White, Programming Director of Filmhouse, said: “Looking into the films that simply didn’t make it on to Edinburgh cinema screens at all during Filmhouse’s closure only hammered home the need for it in this great City of Culture.
“It’s been tough – whilst Filmhouse was closed – to watch some brilliant films come and go from cinemas without being able to offer a venue to watch them in. The good news is, Filmhouse has never been a better place to watch a film (and talk about it afterward!) than it is today and we simply cannot wait to welcome everyone back, or, for the first time! ”
Edinburgh’s premier leisure and entertainment destination, Omni Centre, has announced a £5 million refurbishment and works are set to begin this month.
International investment group Triple B acquired OMNi in April 2024 and announced its commitment to enhancing communities and promoting positive experiences through transformative real estate projects. The investment will help OMNi kick-start its journey of evolution, with locals at the heart of the project.
The public realm refurbishment will include improvements to walkways and new flooring throughout the centre, an enhanced main entrance with improved visibility, replacement LED lighting, new seating zones and substantial internal structural work to create inviting spaces for visitors to meet, dwell and enjoy. Works are expected to be completed later this year.
Martin Botha, OMNi Edinburgh Centre Manager, said: “We are thrilled to announce our improvement plans for OMNi, a project that reflects our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for our visitors and a bustling environment for our brands.
“This transformation will bring exciting new features, modern amenities, a brand revamp and the introduction of live events and experiences, creating a space that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the 4+ million visitors we welcome each year.
“We’re on a mission to inject a sense of fun and excitement into everyone’s visit and at each brand touchpoint, whether that’s meeting up with friends before venturing out into the city or spending quality downtime in-centre, day or night.
” We look forward to embarking on this exciting new chapter and truly owning the title of Edinburgh’s top leisure destination.”
Thomas Archer Bata, Director at Triple B, said: “Triple B is committed to investing in OMNi to enhance the wider community and support the brands within.
“This refurbishment marks the start of a brand-new phase for OMNi; the physical enhancements, coupled with a new mission to integrate and connect further into the vibrant city of Edinburgh, will deliver a greatly improved and welcoming space for our visitors, whilst enhancing the overall customer experience.”
The centre refurbishment coincides with brand-led refurbishments with more news on this soon. OMNi and its brands will remain open and fully accessible throughout the refurbishment project.
Refurbishment updates will be available throughout via the OMNi website and social media channels. OMNi Edinburgh is open 6am – 1am, Monday to Sunday. Individual brand opening times may vary, including Bank Holidays.
EXCLUSIVE HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON GIFT FOR 2 IN 4DX
FATHER’S DAY GIFT INCLUDES 2 4DX TICKETS AND 2 PONCHOS
BUTLER SAYS “I’M SCOTTISH. FEAR’S NOT IN MY VOCABULARY.”
This Father’s Day, Cineworld is giving Dads the full hero treatment – with the launch of its first-ever 4DX gift experience, made for fathers who thought they were brave… until their seat started moving.
Available to buy now in 4DX cinemas and online, Cineworld’s Father’s Day gift box includes two 4DX tickets and a pair of ponchos. How to Train Your Dragon, now reimagined in a breathtaking live-action format, soars into 4DX with fire-breathing effects, like air bursts in front and behind, sudden drops, windstorms and water sprays. Because nothing says bonding like braving a splash zone together in matching ponchos.
You’ll want to hold onto your popcorn too, because the motion will test you, especially when you’re dodging mid-air dragon battles. Just don’t let Dad ask the Cineworld team if they can “turn down the effects” (spoiler: they can’t).
This Father’s Day, take Dad on the adventure of a lifetime with How to Train Your Dragon in 4DX – only at Cineworld. 4DX launches you into the skies with swooping seat movements that track every aerial battle, and environmental effects that whip from fire to fog. Just make sure Dad doesn’t toss any of his popcorn in the air, as dragons might mistake it for a snack.
To prepare the nation, Cineworld has dropped a video guide featuring Gerard Butler and his young co-star, Mason Thames, who offer survival tips on how to train your dad in 4DX.
Gerard Butler declared “I’m Scottish, fear’s not in my vocabulary.” before being rocked, shaken and sprayed in his seat, with a death grip on the armrest.
Give Dad a Father’s Day he won’t forget with the 4DX Gift experience for 2 – and remind him there’s no need to give his seat a pep talk before it starts moving. As for the bubbles? They’ll arrive when the dragons see fit.
Grainne Clarke, Head of Corporate Sales & Partnerships at Cineworld, said: “With two 4DX tickets and matching ponchos, our Father’s Day 4DX Gift Experience is part bonding exercise, part survival test – just enough splash to test Dad’s bravery and see who flinches first.
“Expect airborne popcorn, dragon breath, and a cinema seat with a mind of its own. This is extreme cinema – not for the faint-of-heart. Or faint-of-poncho.”
4DX Gift experience for 2 is available now while stocks last – in Cineworld 4DX foyers or online at Cineworld.com
Not sure your Dad can handle the thrill of 4DX?
We’ve got more heroic gift ideas – from a Cineworld Gift Card (with a FREE How To Train Your Dragon Gift Wallet, when bought in-cinema) to a 3-Month Unlimited Gift for all the upcoming summer blockbusters! Available in-cinema and online.
A SCREEN ICON RETURNS!SCOTLAND’S FLAGSHIP CINEMA, ‘FILMHOUSE’ IN EDINBURGH REOPENS ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC ON 27 JUNE 2025
REOPENING MARKS THE CULMINATION OF A THREE-YEAR ‘OPEN THE DOORS’ CAMPAIGN THAT HAS ATTRACTED ATTENTION AND SUPPORT FROM CINEMA’S FINEST TALENT AND FILM FANS BOTH LOCALLY AND AROUND THE WORLD
THE MUCH-LOVED FILM HUB ENTERS A NEW ERA WITH A NEW OUTLOOK AND NEWLY REFURBISHED SCREENS
This summer marks the long-anticipated return of Scotland’s leading independent cinema. On 27 June 2025, Filmhouse opens its doors and looks to the future as a home for community connection and cinematic discovery.
Following a £2 million refurbishment, Filmhouse returns with new leadership, a vision which builds on the venue’s legacy as a space for learning and discovery, and a commitment to building a sustainable future for this iconic cultural landmark.
With, ultimately, a total capacity of 350 seats, the venue will once again be a hub for film enthusiasts, offering a cutting-edge cinematic experience, a vibrant social space, and a platform for film lovers and filmmakers to engage with the very best in global cinema. Previously a three-screen venue, the new Filmhouse will become a four-screen cinema and will be unveiling a fourth screen with a capacity of 24, allowing for an even more expansive programme, as well as being available for private screenings and hires.
Opening on 27th June are the beautifully refurbished screens 1, 2 and 3 and all the public areas. Screen 4 will open later in July as part of a second phase of work and fundraising also continues for some remaining elements of the project.
Following its closure in October 2022, the reopening of Filmhouse marks the culmination of a three-year long campaign to save the historic cinema backed by film lovers in Edinburgh, Scotland, and around the world and by A-list film talent including patrons Jack Lowden and Charlotte Wells, as well as Dougray Scott, Brian Cox, and Emma Thompson.
The cinema will relaunch with a programme of films missed during the venue’s two-and-a-half-year closure.
The cinema has been brought back to life by a group consisting of Filmhouse Chair Ginnie Atkinson, Head of Programming Rod White, cinema strategist at Mustard Studio, James Rice, Technical Manager David Boyd, and strategic financial consultant, Mike Davidson.
The group is now joined by newly appointed Executive Director Andrew Simpson and a raft of new staff members. The cinema rebuild is designed by Unick Architects and built by Clark Contracts.
This next chapter for Filmhouse has been shaped by extensive research, expert consultation, and overwhelming community and industry support that emerged in the wake of its closure – notably through the Open the Doors crowdfunding campaign.
A successful campaign
With support from Screen Scotland, the reopening of Filmhouse began with the Filmhouse team negotiating with the building’s owners, Caledonian Heritable, to lease the building back for a minimum twenty-five-year period as a modern cinema space, before raising capital funding to refurbish the building.
Funding came from a successful ‘Open the Doors!’ Crowdfunder campaign which launched in September 2023 and has raised over £324,000. The project also fitted the criteria for the UK Government’s Levelling Up Community Ownership Fund (COF), which has supported community groups to take ownership of assets and amenities at risk of being lost. COF granted Filmhouse £1.5 Million with other capital funding coming from a raft of donations and from Trusts.
Further project support came from major funder Screen Scotland and Creative Scotland, and the City of Edinburgh Council.
In July 2024, the cinema’s 25-year extendable lease was signed, and in February this year contractor, Clark Contracts, began refurbishment work on the cinema.
State-of-the-art facilities in a historic building
Filmhouse’s historic home is a repurposed church on Edinburgh’s Lothian Road which has been a cinematic landmark since 1978. Originally opening with a single 90-seat screen, the venue expanded over the years to include three screens, a bustling café-bar and a welcoming front entrance, becoming a cherished gathering place for filmgoers.
Before the relaunch of the cinema, the building has undergone substantial repair work to the roof and stonework alongside an entire refit inside the cinema.
Filmhouse’s technical capabilities include 70mm, 35mm, 16mm, 8mm, and digital projection. The cinema also includes a Clipster Unit for creating Digital Cinema Packages (DCPs) required for festival and theatrical distribution.
Comfortable seats and a new food and drink offer
Comfort has been prioritised across the new Filmhouse. Film-lovers can expect extra legroom and comfortable seats across the cinema’s screens, alongside a completely reworked foyer space.
The Filmhouse Bar has also been completely refurbished and will be able to seat 100 people for lunch and dinner, with drinks available throughout the day, catering for the many communities who enjoyed the welcoming atmosphere, and placing an emphasis on produce from Edinburgh and Scotland, offering great food and drink alongside environmental sustainability. Filmhouse fans will be pleased to know that the cinema’s world-famous nachos are staying put too.
The cinema will announce new membership offers and multiple-tier ticket pricing over the next few weeks.
A wide-ranging film programme
Filmhouse has long been celebrated as a cultural cornerstone, showcasing world cinema in all its brilliance and diversity, from crowd-pleasing favourites and family films to avant-garde arthouse works, restored classics, and curated retrospectives.
Alongside this, the cinema will also look to screen events such as National Theatre Live and live Metropolitan Opera broadcasts for the first time, with more details to be confirmed in the coming months.
Details of Filmhouse’s involvement with this year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival are yet to be announced.
Embedded in the community for everyone
Filmhouse will continue to prioritise its education and outreach work with facilities to inspire anyone with an interest in film.
A Learning & Engagement Officer has been appointed by the cinema, supported by a grant from the City of Edinburgh Council, and there will be forthcoming collaboration with the National Film and Television School’s Sean Connery Talent Lab, whose graduation shows will take place at the Filmhouse this summer.
The stage is set, the screens are ready, and the story of Filmhouse continues.
Andrew Simpson, Executive Director of Filmhouse, said: “The love for Filmhouse never went away, it was just waiting to be reignited.
“The incredible response to its closure showed us how vital this space is, not just for Edinburgh, but for audiences across Scotland and beyond.
“We are returning with fresh energy, a clear plan for the future, and a commitment to delivering world-class film experiences for everyone. Filmhouse belongs to its community, and we’re excited to welcome people back.”
Patron Jack Lowden said: “Filmhouse is a place utterly dedicated to the promotion and celebration of independent cinema. Films need to be watched, not just made. Now, after months of hard work, the incredible team at Filmhouse have managed to pull one of Scotland’s few truly independent cinemas back fae the brink.
“To have such a place on the streets of our capital providing the platform to give our world class filmmakers and storytellers the lift off they need, and continue to ask the big questions of ourselves through cinema, is exciting and vital.”
Patron Charlotte Wells has said: “The Filmhouse was an essential part of my own story and I’m delighted it can continue to be that for others too through its film and education programming and its role as a public forum for film lovers.
David Smith, Director of Screen Scotland said: “Reopening Filmhouse has been the mission for many people across the last three years.
“From the moment it closed the Screen Scotland team were working to get Filmhouse back. In the end that effort, our support, became focused around Ginnie, Rod, James and David and it was those four individuals who put in hours upon hours of hard work that made it a reality.
“Edinburgh – and everyone who loves film – owes them and the thousands of people who supported their crowdfunder a huge thank you. The revitalised, reimagined, reborn Filmhouse will bring back all that was lost and much more, and once again be the heart and home for cinema culture in Edinburgh.”
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “It is wonderful that the Filmhouse will be opening its doors once again. I am sure that many people across Edinburgh and beyond will be looking forward to this event.
“This much-loved cinema is both a community hub and cultural asset for the city. Its refurbishment will allow even more people enjoy the magic of global cinema in the heart of the city. I look forward to seeing the programme of events that will be on offer once the Filmhouse opens for business.”
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “It’s blockbuster news that the much cherished Filmhouse in Edinburgh is re-opening its doors after three years.
“Thanks to £1.54 million UK Government funding and much hard work from the Filmhouse team and partners, cinema-goers are set for a thrilling experience in a fully refurbished venue that meets modern audience expectations. I can’t wait to take in a movie there.”
A replica of the Hungarian Horntail dragon which featured in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire is coming to Edinburgh
Complete with a moving head, mouth and eyes, the hydraulic dragon roars and bares its teeth to visitors and was created to celebrate the new Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions feature at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter
The dragon will stop off in Edinburgh as part of a UK tour, aiming to take a piece of filmmaking magic from Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to fans across the country
People visiting Castle Street, Edinburgh will be able to get close to an iconic movie moment and have the opportunity to win tickets to see the full feature at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London
Edinburgh will have a rare chance to interact with a piece of Harry Potter filmmaking magic history later this week (30th and 31st May).
A Hungarian Horntail dragon will be landing at Castle Street, Edinburgh in a special appearance outside of its rightful home at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Visitors will be able to get up close and personal with the magical creature, which fans will recognise from Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, experiencing its ability to roar, move and even give passersby a delightful wink of its eye.
The huge animatronic dragon, which weighs 1.3 tonnes, brings to life the fan favourite, nail-biting scene where Harry Potter’s Hungarian Horntail breaks free of its chains during the first task in the Triwizard Tournament.
The dragon was created to mark the launch of the new ‘Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions’ feature at the Studio Tour, running from 15th May to 8th September 2025. The new feature celebrates the 20th anniversary of the cinematic release of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and invites visitors to go behind-the-scenes of the Triwizard Tournament to discover how filmmakers created the iconic competition we see and love on-screen.
As well as having the rare opportunity to come face to face with a legend of the wizarding world, fans seeing the dragon on tour will have the chance to win tickets to ‘Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions through an exclusive competition.
Harry Potter filmmaker and Animatronic Designer, Joe Scott, designed the dragon , replicating the creature in the fourth film, complete with a moving head, mouth and eyes and sound effects.
The skilled recreation of the famous dragon was carefully crafted over 750 hours, using materials that included 40 metres of fiberglass. The team first created a series of detailed sketches and CGI mock-ups, before Sculptors, Carpenters and Scenic Artists meticulously built the dragon’s head, which was 3D printed using a scan of the original Hungarian Horntail from the film.
A total of 119 spikes were individually applied to garnish the dragon’s head and tail, taking 265 painstaking hours, whilst 38 razor-sharp teeth were 3D printed in resin to create bite in the creature’s animatronic mouth.
The stunning creature will give visitors a preview of the new summer feature at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, where for the first-time ever, fans can explore the Backlot Stage, showcasing the Secrets of Special Effects. This new, dedicated indoor space, offers visitors the opportunity to discover how filmmakers brought the action-packed scenes from the Triwizard Tournament to life.
Comprising a digital screen, a stage and tiered seating, it promises to uncover secrets that not even the most knowledgeable Muggle will know. From creating the Hungarian Horntail dragon to understanding how Harry Potter held his breath for so long underwater, all will be revealed as part of the feature.
Visitors can also witness a mesmerising demonstration reminiscent of the Beauxbaton and Durmstrang students’ arrival, featuring Beauxbaton’s iconic blue dresses as seen in the film.
Geoff Spooner, Senior Vice President at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London says: “We’re excited to launch our brand-new summer feature, Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions, where visitors can learn behind-the-scenes secrets of the fourth Harry Potter film.
“To celebrate and bring the magic of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London to fans across the UK we recreated the iconic moment of the escaped Hungarian Horntail dragon 20 years on from ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.”
Further additions to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London summer feature include Mad-Eye Moody’s arrival into the Great Hall and wizarding journalist Rita Skeeter, best known for her poison pen articles.
The dragon will land at Castle Street, Edinburgh at 1pm on the 30th and 9am on the 31st May. For those wanting to see more, the Triwizard Tournament – Making of Champions is a special feature at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London running from 15th May – 8th September and all new additions are included in the ticket price.
Hungarian Horntail National Tour details
Location: Castle Street, Edinburgh
Date and Time: 30th May from 1pm until 9pm, 31st May from 9am until 8pm
