Tag: cinema

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Family fun and exclusive screenings provide Half-Term escapes at Vue

From musical magic to family friendly favourites, there’s something heading to the big screen at Vue for audiences of all ages this October half term.

One band of animated heroes returning to the big screen just in time for half term is the Paw Patrol, who face their most superpowered adventure yet in Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. The paw-some heroes of Adventure City gain magical superpowers from a mysterious meteor, turning the Paw Patrol into the Mighty Pups. Facing against a mad scientist, this powerful pooches need to team up to once again save the day! 

From the 20 October, Hey Duggee’s Cinema Outing will screen exclusively at Vue.  The hugely popular CBeebies’ star and his pals invite fans to join them for energetic singalongs of hits such as the Feelings Song and the Being Kind song alongside new episodes, ideal for younger audiences.

The big screen is also set to welcome some family-friendly blockbusters later in the week, including the animated adventure Trolls Band Together, getting the mythical musicians back together once again to reunite a legendary boy band from the 90’s BroZone.

Packed with colourful characters, both old favourites and new heroes, Trolls once again brings its charming tales of friendship, fun and fabulous tunes back to Vue on 20 October.

For those looking for something with a musical twist, singalong to classic hits based on the hugely popular DreamWorks Animation classic, The Prince of Egypt: The Musical will also bring the on stage production of the iconic family favourite to the big screen just in time for the school holidays.

Vue will also be screening a range of popular releases as part of its Vue Mini Mornings series, which showcases the very best family films from £2.49 per ticket. This half term the screenings will take place daily at 10am, with the lineup including Spider-Man: Across The Spiderverse, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and The Canterville Ghost.

Robert Smith, General Manager at Vue Edinburgh Omni said ‘We’ve got a great selection of new films and big screen entertainment on show this half term offering an ideal way to enjoy quality family time together this half term.

‘With super saver tickets from just £4.99 online at select venues, the big screen experience at Vue is the perfect treat during half term.

‘Our Vue Mini Mornings at 10am all through the week this half term, will continue to show kids’ favourite films at just £2.49 a ticket if purchased online and £3.49 in person.

‘We also have themed retail on offer with fun exclusive merchandise for Trolls and Paw Patrol, which is set to fly off the shelves across half term with our Kids Combos providing a fantastic viewer treat for youngsters.

‘Parents and children can come along, switch off and immerse themselves in great stories.’

Tickets are available now at www.myvue.com.   

Half-Term Escape for Everyone Line-up at Vue

Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie – from now
Prince Of Egypt: The Musical – 19 October & 22 October
Hey Duggee’s Cinema Outing (Exclusive to Vue) – w/c 20 October
Trolls: Band Together – w/c 20 October

Mini Mornings w/c 20 October

Spider-Man: Across The Spider-verse
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
The Canterbury Ghost

SSAFA attends The Great Escaper première in Edinburgh

Based on the incredible, and poignant, true story of British World War II Royal Navy veteran Bernard Jordan – played by Sir Michael Caine – who in June 2014 “broke out” of his nursing home to attend the 70th anniversary D-Day commemorations in Normandy, The Great Escaper has been released at the cinema.

Ahead of the general release, several premières have taken place around the country – including in Scotland – and volunteers from the Edinburgh & The Lothians Branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity attended the screening by Edinburgh’s Army at The Fringe.

SSAFA Caseworkers Fran Good and Mags Granger, and Branch Chairman Walter Gallacher, were moved by the film, which co-stars the late Glenda Jackson in her last role as Bernard’s wife Irene.

No spoilers, but some thoughts on the film from SSAFA volunteers:

Mags commented that the film: “… is a humorous but moving reminder that life is more than the person you see in front of you.

“It really is a must-see film for all those who care passionately about others and the role we play in extending a hand of support and friendship to those who need us most.”

Walter added: “It’s as if the film was made for SSAFA and similar organisations and the people who work for us and volunteer with us and for all those we help.”

The Great Escaper – directed by Oliver Parker, whose credits include various adaptations of Oscar Wilde works, Johnny English Reborn, and Dad’s Army – is now on general release.

SSAFA was granted access to Oliver to interview him about the film. To watch the interview, visit vimeo.com/870713127.

Watch the full interview at ssaf.as/1z7

For more information, visit ssafa.org.uk.

New Schools Fund to expand film and screen education across Scotland

Work to embed film and screen education within the Scottish schools’ curriculum took a step forward today with the launch of new funding from Screen Scotland. 

Available to early years, primary and secondary schools, the new Schools Screen Education Fund has been created to support programmes of work with the potential to develop increased understanding of the potential of screen education and support the provision of screen education and the new curriculum in a school setting.   

Schools can apply for grants up to £5000 to test an element of the draft Film and Screen curriculum with classes from Early Years to S3, or to design and deliver screen education projects for schools. 

Also going live today, is Screen Scotland’s refreshed Screen Education Fund which offers grants of between £500 – £20,000 to projects that support the provision of screen education in a variety of formal, informal and non-formal settings – schools, colleges, universities, cinemas, film festivals, libraries, media access centres and Local Authorities – aimed at developing increased understanding of the potential of screen education. 

Fi Milligan-Rennie, Head of Education – Screen at Screen Scotland said: “Developing Film and Screen as an expressive art focuses on enabling pupils to make a film, rather than solely study the history or theory of film.

“This is core to Screen Scotland’s work to widen participation in film and screen production, cultivate a skilled screen workforce and develop the screen professionals needed to carry forward Scotland’s film culture.

“At the same time, the values and benefits of film and screen education reach far beyond careers.  Engagement in film and screen activity strengthens fusion skills, supports attainment in other subjects and improves health and wellbeing.  Film and Screen is the dominant language of our culture and Screen Scotland is committed to ensuring the democracy of opportunity to learn that language.” 

The launch took place in tandem with Screen Scotland’s Screen Educators in Residence Programme. Over the past months, Screen Educators have been deep at work in primary and secondary schools in Argyll and Bute, Dundee, Edinburgh, Inverness and Shetland, testing the draft curriculum; trialling new learning and hands-on opportunities to develop students understanding, appreciation and practical knowledge of film and screen production.  

Welcomed by Scotland’s Educators, independent production companies and Scottish screen stars like Outlander’s Sam Heughan, the ultimate aim of the two-year pilot programme is to introduce film and screen within the Scottish curriculum from Early Years through to Senior Phase.

Full details about the Funds and how to apply are available on the Screen Scotland website: https://www.screen.scot/funding-and-support/funding/screen-education-fund 

Barbie arrives in 4DX screens nationwide only at Cineworld

Get ready to dance the night away at Cineworld with Barbie in 4DX! For one week only you can immerse yourself in Barbie Land with this multisensory cinematic experience across 35 Cineworld locations in the UK and Ireland. Tickets are now on sale for the 4DX release date TODAY – Friday, Sep 15. 

Barbie is a dazzling and empowering tale for all ages with its inspiring storyline, incredible fashion, and unforgettable characters. Now, thanks to Cineworld’s state-of-the-art 4DX technology, viewers can be transported into the enchanting world of Barbie in the most immersive way imaginable.

What is 4DX, you ask? It’s a cutting-edge, multisensory experience which feels like a cinematic roller coaster with moving seats and 20 stimulating effects. Think: Beach. With water effects.

Barbies and Kens can also expect:

Motion Seats: Feel the excitement as your seats twist, sway, heave, shake and vibrate in sync with the on-screen action, whether Barbie is riding her dream car or dancing the night away.

Environmental Effects: Engage your senses and experience the magic as bubbles, misty smoke, gentle breezes, even captivating scents seamlessly blend into the cinematic adventure.

Lighting Effects: Synchronized lighting that transforms the atmosphere of the movie, immersing you in a giant blowout party where dazzling lights will leave you positively electrified.

The phenomenal success of Barbenheimer (Barbie and Oppenheimer), both released on July 21, saw a record breaking week for Cineworld which had its ‘best week ever!’ welcoming over 1.7 million guests over a 7 day period, making it the busiest in the exhibitor’s history. Cineworld came out on top as the number 1 exhibitor in the UK overall in terms of box office market share.

Customers are advised to book their Barbie 4DX tickets in advance to avoid disappointment at cineworld.com/4DX or using the Cineworld app. 

Casey Cohen, Head of Marketing at Cineworld said: “Barbie has been the buzzworthy blockbuster of the year, and we’re tickled pink to welcome all of those who want to embark on an electrifying 4DX adventure with Barbie and Ken.

“Get ready for a rollercoaster of sensations, where your seats sway and your senses sway with them, propelling you headfirst into Barbie’s whimsical world. Whether it’s your Barbie movie debut or a thrilling reunion, this exhilarating format will have you bouncing in your seat with delight. We promise, it will be the best day ever!” 

#experience4DX

Long live the Bat! Celebrate Batman Day on the big screen with Vue Edinburgh

Catch the caped crusader at Vue on Saturday

To mark 83 years since his very first appearance in DC’s Detective Comics back in 1939, Vue is celebrating the iconic superhero Batman by bringing some of the most iconic films back to the big screen this Batman Day this Saturday (16 September).

Throughout the day, Vue Edinburgh Omni and Ocean Terminal will be allowing comic book fans to enjoy three films featuring the caped crusader and his gang of infamous rogues in some of their most beloved and acclaimed moments.

With Michael Keaton donning the famous cowl, Tim Burton’s Batman from 1989 brought the world of Gotham City to life with thrilling action pieces, an iconic score from Danny Elfman and a comically wicked turn from actor Jack Nicholson, who played his iconic archnemesis The Joker.

In 2009, director Christopher Nolan took the helm with The Dark Knight, portraying the DC superhero in his most daring and dramatic role yet, leading to one of the most entertaining blockbusters to date, complete with award-winning performances and jaw-dropping set pieces.

With Christian Bale grappling the dual role of Batman / Bruce Wayne against a very different take on the clown prince of crime, Heath Ledger’s legendary performance as The Joker which saw the actor win an post-humous Academy Award.

Finally, Gothamites can revel in the more recent capers that put DC’s fictional city in Joker, starring Joaquin Phoenix in a much grittier and personal take on the infamous Batman villain. Watch the warped world of the man who would put a smile on people’s faces, for better or worse, become the iconic big screen baddie we know and hate to love.

All three of these epic Batman blockbusters also return to the big screen as part of Warners Bros 75th anniversary, which Vue has marked by rescreening a number of the production company’s most iconic films, including the The Lord of the Rings Trilogy and sci-fi film Interstellar, all of which will be screening at Vue venues later this year.

Robert Lea, Head of Screen Content at Vue Entertainment, said: ‘Some of the most recognisable big screen moments of all time come from the adventures of Batman in his many blockbusters, so we’re thrilled to offer film fans to chance to catch some of his greatest adventures this Batman Day.

‘Our Back on the Big Screen releases have been proving incredibly popular with film fans looking to rewatch their favourites or even see classics for the first time – and we’re hugely excited to bring Batman back at Vue this September.’

Super Saver Tickets available online from just £4.99 at selected venues. Book now at myvue.com

Delilah Films announces Spiked premiere in Scotland on 23rd August

The short film in partnership with Scottish spiking charity Spike Aware UK will screen at The Old Well Cinema in Moffat this month

21st August 2023, Scotland: Today film production company Delilah Films announces the premiere of its debut short film Spiked will take place in Scotland on Wednesday 23rd August at The Old Well Theatre in Moffat. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

When single-mum Becky suspects she’s been spiked, she seeks frenemy police officer Andrea’s help in getting tested. Spiked is a short film set in the North-East of England.

An image from the film is available here: https://we.tl/t-xXpIClV1ag (L: Phoebe Lorenz, R: Emma Zadow)

Spiked was co-created by Delilah Films’ founder Phoebe Lorenz and BBC New Creative Emma Zadow. The film was created with support from Scottish charity Spike Aware UK, and in association with Northern Fortress Films.

It was directed by Alex Shipman (Female, Fifty and Fighting: Bam Bam).

Spiked has already been selected for numerous BIFA-qualifying festivals including Women X and Sunderland Shorts Film Festival 2023.

Spike Aware UK is a registered Scottish charity covering England, Scotland, Wales & NI, and is a group who want to raise awareness of young people having their drinks drugged or spiked at social events.

It is the first registered charity and support network for victims of drink and needle spiking in the UK, and it organises, cooperates, supports and campaigns locally and nationally to spread awareness.

The event will also screen short film A Victim’s Story made by local filmmaker Rachael Ovens, and Still (also directed by Alex Shipman), an experimental documentary using real testimonies from women about their experiences in night clubs, visualised through an interpretive dance piece.

Phoebe Lorenz, founder of Delilah Films, says, “Having the premiere of this film in Scotland, timed just at the end of Edinburgh Film Festival, is a testament to our phenomenal partners at Spike Aware UK.

“The team behind Spiked want this film to make as big of an impact as possible for victims of spiking and to raise awareness of the issue, and we are really looking forward to the event.”

Colin Mackie, founder of Spike Aware UK, says, “We at Spike Aware UK are delighted to have played a part in bringing Spiked to the screen.

“We have been impressed by the professionalism and the enthusiasm of all involved in the project and hope this production will help highlight what is a growing problem.”

Spiked’s creator and founder of Delilah Films Phoebe Lorenz is a British-German actor, writer and producer. She co-wrote/produced award-winning film I’m Still Ethanin 2020 with Freida Films’ Amelia O’Loughlin and starring BIFA-Winning actor Dave Johns (I, Daniel Blake). 

Co-creator of Spiked Emma Zadow is an actor, writer and BBC New Creative. Her short film JIGGING, commissioned by BBC Arts & Screen South, won Best Short and Best Actress at Seattle Independent, Sydney Australian, Hong Kong Indie, Hollywood Boulevard and Red Moon Film Festivals.

Alex Shipman is a Director and DOP across documentary and fiction content. She works as a DOP for EPK/Behind the scenes content on Warner Brothers and Lucas film productions. As a director her short films have been selected for Cannes Film Festival (as part of the Straight 8 Challenge) and her last short film about women’s experience in nightclubs screened at the BFI Future Film Festival.

Northern Fortress Films was founded by Louisa Rose Mackleston in January 2021. Louisa is a Director, Writer & Producer from Bradford. Her production company aims to convey socially conscious stories through factual and narrative formats and has received funding from organisations such as UNESCO, the NHS & Bradford Council.