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.”
This Christmas, Love Actually, perhaps one of the most quotable and adored Christmas films of all time, will be presented live in concert, with a full orchestra playing its score live-to-film.
The film will be brought to life on a 16-date UK wide tour, following a sell-out run last Christmas. Kicking off on 28th November in Poole and taking in all major cities across the UK, the tour will run right up until the 17th December.
‘A stunning orchestra provides the perfect festive ambience.’Yorkshire Live
‘The whole performance was simply spectacular, enhancing the magic of this classic Christmas movie tenfold’Bournemouth Echo
The score for Love Actually was written by Golden Globe®, BAFTA and Emmy-winning Scottish composer Craig Armstrong OBE, known for his work on films such as Me Before You, Moulin Rouge, Far From The Madding Crowd and Elizabeth: The Golden Age.
The score and music for Love Actually is considered some of the most recognisable across the modern romcom genre, featuring covers of Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You and the Troggs’ Love Is all Around.
Written and directed by Richard Curtis, Love Actually follows 10 different, yet interweaving stories of love around the festive period, involving a variety of individuals, many of whom are interlinked as the plot progresses.
The film boasts an all-star cast, featuring Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Bill Nighy, Martine McCutcheon, Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Rowan Atkinson, Martin Freeman and many more.
Tour dates:
28th November Poole Lighthouse 29th November Portsmouth Guildhall 30th November Brighton Centre
1st December Liverpool Philharmonic Hall 3rd December Manchester Bridgewater Hall 4th December Southend Cliffs Pavilion 5th December Bath Forum 6th December London Eventim Apollo *Matinee and evening performances 7th December Sheffield City Hall 8th December Glasgow Royal Concert Hall 10th December Aberdeen P&J Live 12th December Birmingham Symphony Hall 14th December Edinburgh Usher Hall 15th December Nottingham Royal Concert Hall 16th December York Barbican 17th December Bradford Live
Film fans, families and comic book enthusiasts are invited to rediscover the original big screen superhero team as a series of classic X-Men films return to the big screen at Vue this month.
Marking 25th anniversary of their big screen debut, Marvel’s mutant team-up including favourites such as Cyclops, Storm, Professor X and a career defining role for Hugh Jackman as Wolverine has gone on to become one of the genre’s most beloved franchises with some of the cast even returning in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday.
Back from today, Friday 16 May, X-Men and X-Men 2 introduces us to the world of the X-Men as Professor Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) and his band of heroes must protect the world, and mutant-kind themselves, from the evil forces such as Sabretooth, William Stryker and the legendary villain Magneto (Ian McKellan).
Revisiting the origins behind the friendship and mortal adversary between Professor X and Magneto (this time played by James McAvoy and Michael Fassbender), X-Men: First Class and X-Men: Days of Future Past dives back into the 1960’s & 70’s to explain how the team originally learned how to control their powers and got together from Friday 6 June.
The series most acclaimed spin-offs will also be returning to the big screen as the beloved final tale starring Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine Logan, sees the character embark on a claws out adventure with a mysterious young girl who is showing similar mutant powers to him on Friday 13 June.
Robert Smith, General Manager of Vue Edinburgh Omni, said: “With fantastic stories and climatic action sequences, superhero films have easily become one of the most popular genres to catch up on the big screen.
“That’s why we’re hugely excited to bring one of the first franchises to start it all, The X-Men, back to Vue – offering a way for families and fans to enjoy their favourite mutant moments on the big screen.
“Whether you’re a fan of the original films, the prequels versions of the team or just excited to rewatch these adventures before the X-Men show up in the MCU with Avengers: Doomsday next year, we welcome fans to enjoy these films as they’re meant to be seen on the big screen at Vue.’
Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) has announced the world premiere of Ben Wheatley’s ingenious new film BULK as the opening night film of the Festival’s Midnight Madness strand.
Produced by Andy Starke of Rook Films and financed by Film4, BULK marks a return to the thrillingly free-spirited filmmaker’s homegrown, kaleidoscopic works In The Earth and A Field in England. Executive producers for Film4 are Ollie Madden and David Kimbangi.
BULK will be presented as part of EIFF’s Midnight Madness strand which runs throughout the Festival and unleashes the very best in new genre cinema from around the world.
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.
Paul Ridd, CEO and Festival Directorof EIFF, said “I have been sworn on pain of death to not give too much away about BULK!
“Suffice it to say this is a truly unique film that took our breath away then fried our brains. We could not think of a better way for us to launch the second year of Midnight Madness at EIFF than with a new trip from a true visionary of cinema.
“It is guaranteed to bring the house down in August. Bring it on!”
Ben Wheatleysaid: “I’m very excited and proud to be premiering BULK at Edinburgh International Film Festival’s Midnight Madness.
“This is a midnight film through and through. Car chases, gun fights, sci-fi and romance. Thanks to Edinburgh for having us. It’s going to be a wild night.”
Ollie Madden, Director of Film4 comments: “Ben Wheatley is one of a kind, and BULK is truly the result of his unique and brilliant filmmaking brain.
“It was an honour to work with him on this secret project, for which Midnight Madness at EIFF is the perfect launchpad. Can’t wait for it to surprise and delight audiences in the way it did us!”
Helmed by CEO and Festival Director Paul Ridd and Festival Producer Emma Boa, 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, Director of UK Film, Netflix; Isla Macgillivray, Partner at Saffrey; and Romana Ramzan, Producer at No Code Studio.
More information will be released on the 2025 Festivalin the coming weeks.
Edinburgh Tradfest’s programme of sensational live music, storytelling and film continues across the city this weekend.
Plus, just announced, BBC Radio Scotland’s Young Traditional Musician for 2025, singer Ellie Beaton will be performing at St Giles Cathedral on the Royal Mile today at lunchtime (1.30pm), ahead of her evening concert at the Traverse tonight.
This half hour event is free and is part of a new pop-up programme of impromptu events happening across the city.
Other highlights not to be missed include:
Gaelic singer, broadcaster, and cultural ambassador Joy Dunlop who is this year’s Rebellious Truth talk guest on Sunday afternoon. Joy will be sharing her story from when she first learnt Gaelic at school in Oban, to reading the weather on the BBC.
Finnish throat singer Pelkkä Poutanen (above) who mixes different folk traditions with classical, roots, electronic and pop music and, whose unique vocal techniques, rarely performed by women, are not to be missed!
A line-up of incredible emerging musicians performing at this year’s ETF Spotlight concert including Miwa Nagato-Apthorp whose debut album Noren is released this month; Parsisonic led by Iranian duo Aref Ghorbani and Amir Hossein Feyzi, a Glasgow based quartet bridging cultural gaps with their unique cross genre sound. Plus, one of the most respected Gaelic trad fusion bands Dlù, whose members originate from school days at the Gaelic School in Glasgow.
For film-goers the Folk Film Gathering continues its fantastic programme of world film which includes a whole day dedicated to the work of the late Douglas Eadie on Sunday, 11 May; and a screening of Gerda Stevenson’s recent documentary Paper Portraits which celebrates the history and working people of Penicuik’s paper mills.
Over at the Storytelling Centre The Poet and the Moon led by three Spanish artists including celebrated storyteller Inèz Àlvarez Villa of TuFlamenco presents a tribute to Federico Garcia Lorca, Spain’s most iconic poet, told through poetry and flamenco dance. And, storyteller and journalist Rachel Pugh shares her gripping true story about an ancient bog man found in Lindow Moss in Bog Standard, accompanied by award-winning harpist Lucy Nolan.
Finally, bringing the whole festival to a close will be Siobhan Miller with her sensational band at the Traverse on Monday night.
Douglas Robertson and Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producers of Edinburgh Tradfest said: “Don’t miss the final weekend of this year’s festival, there are some amazing bands coming up, and fantastic films and storytelling events still to come.
“The festival’s strength of programming this year is exceptional. So, make sure you squeeze in everything you can.”
Edinburgh Tradfest runs until Monday 12 May. For tickets and more information visit edinburghtradfest.com
CLASSIC FAMILY TITLES IN 4DX: MOANA, PADDINGTON & HARRY POTTER
ONE-DAY EVENT TO BE HELD ACROSS ALL 4DX CINEMAS NATIONWIDE
Get ready for a family adventure like no other! Cineworld is excited to launch its first-ever 4DX Family Day on Sunday 18 May at all 34 Cineworld 4DX screens nationwide – with tickets available now for just £4/€4 (online, including booking fee).
Available only at Cineworld, 4DX is a thrilling multisensory experience, featuring motion-synchronised seats, gusts of wind, sprays of water, aromatic scents, bubbles, fog and strobe lighting, bringing every scene to life in the comfort of your seat. For one day only, families across the UK and Ireland can dive into some of the most beloved family classics in an entirely new way.
Film line-up for 4DX Family Day:
Moana (2016) – 10:00am
Paddington (2014) – 12:30pm
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) – 2:45pm
For the first time ever, Moana and Paddington will be brought to life in 4DX – with ocean sprays, tilting seats and sea breezes pulling you into Moana’s voyage, and bursts of air, playful splashes and sweet peach aromas capturing Paddington’s every marmalade mishap. Plus, the magic of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone will sweep through the auditorium with swirling winds, rumbling seats and spellbinding effects like fog, bubbles and snow.
Adding even more magic to the day, participating cinemas will also host a range of family-friendly activities in the foyer, including bubble-blowing fun and temporary 4DX tattoo stations – perfect for young adventurers. All adults must be accompanied by a child – young explorers lead the way!
Casey Cohen, VP of International Marketing at Cineworld, said: “We are thrilled to launch our first-ever 4DX Family Day, where seats move, oceans splash, and marmalade mischief fills the air.
“4DX is hands down, the most fun you can have as a family in a cinema – like a multisensory rollercoaster ride, but with popcorn.
“On Sunday, May 18th, experience Moana, Paddington, and Harry Potter like never before, in 4DX. Get ready for the ride of your life – you’re welcome!”
Tickets for 4DX Family Day are available now via theCineworld websiteand Cineworld app.
Leading film education charity, Into Film, has today announced this year’s Into Film Awards nominees including three nominations for filmmakers and filmmaking teams based in Scotland.
Nominated for the Time forAction Award (Sponsored by Swatch) are 8 young people aged 16-19 from CITADEL YOUTH CENTRE, Leithfor the film Can we talk about Mental Health.
The filmmakers are Holly Watson (18), Nyah Sallan (16), Sophie Hunter Little (16), Brian Hainey (17), Levi Bennet (18), Ellie Pullar (18), Joshua Moohan (19), Jack Fyffe (18).
This call to action film utilises many different kinds of animation to highlight not only the mental health struggles that many young people face, but to also address the systemic difficulties that exist in trying to access support. In the young people’s own voices this is a direct plea asking all of us, from teachers to government ministers, to do better.
Nominated for the Best Film – 16-19 (Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery) are 9 filmmakers aged 17-19 from West Pilton’s SCREEN EDUCATION EDINBURGH for the film Come Inside.
The filmmakers are Aaron McCrossan (19), Allair Ayeni (18), Ben Emmel (18) CJ Reeder (17), Emma White (18), Jasmine Mooney (17), Kirk Kerrane (18), Lili Quigley (19) and Albie Kerlaff (17).
In this deeply affecting drama, a young woman named Mia tries her best to take her of ailing father, who is suffering from early-onset dementia, his memory and mental faculties diminishing by the day.
Nominated for Best Story (Sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios) is 14 year old Edward Ryan from Sanquhar, Dumfries and Galloway for the film More Than One Way to Go Home.
Inspired by the filmmaker’s own personal experiences, this film follows a young autistic girl, who has to find her own way home when her brother leaves her to fend for herself. A well shot film that conveys some of the difficulties that autistic people might experience. Nominees in this category were selected from among all of the films submitted to this year’s Into Film Awards, across all categories
The Awards, sponsored by the UK film industry, celebrate young people’s creativity in film, showcasing and highlighting the wealth of tomorrow’s creative talent.
Young people from across the UK whose short films have been nominated across the Awards categories will be recognised at a glitzy afternoon ceremony, which has previously been attended by some of the biggest stars in the industry including Daniel Craig, Lashana Lynch, Eddie Redmayne, Lily James, Luke Evans, Gemma Arterton, Charles Dance, Ruth Wilson, Bill Nighy, Simon Pegg, Martin Freeman and Naomie Harris.
This year’s nominated films cover a wide range of compelling and timely subjects for young people including mental health, the war in Ukraine, gender identity, neurodivergence, multiculturism, the potential harms of AI, feeling disconnected and isolated in modern society, nature conservation, immigration and identity, looking after an unwell parent, the need to stop scrolling on social media, and much more.
The nominees have been recognised across 11 awards categories in different age groups and the winners will be announced and presented with their awards by stars of the film and entertainment industry at the afternoon ceremony at Odeon Luxe, Leicester Square, on June 24 in London.
The award ceremony will be hosted by BAFTA Breakthrough Brit, BAFTA TV winner, actor, presenter and author Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE.
This year’s Into Film Awards received an unprecedented number of film entries from children and young people across the UK. Into Film believes that every child should be given the chance to learn hands-on filmmaking skills and be able to tell their own stories in film, which is the central aim of its Young Creatives programme, supported by the BFI awarding National Lottery Good Cause funding.
14 year old Edward Ryan has said: “I’m over the moon to have been nominated, I feel very happy that my film has been chosen for the Best Story category.
“It makes it feel like all the hard work has been worth it. Filmmaking is important to me because I enjoy it and it allows me to express myself in ways I was unable to before.”
17 year old Albie Kerlaff, part of theScreen Education Edinburgh filmmaking team, said: “I’m extremely excited that Come Inside has been selected — there aren’t enough opportunities like the Into Film Awards, so being part of this feels very special.
“I felt like Scorsese for a minute… then spilled my drink on my T-shirt, which brought me back down a bit! Films, to me, are a little like sandboxes where I can explore and play with emotions. Both watching and making films have been a constant way for me to process my feelings since I was small, and I hope they always will be.”
Lesley Williamson of Citadel Youth Centrehas said: “We are thrilled to be nominated for this award. This is a great achievement for the young people involved.
“This film speaks from the young people’s hearts and is very open, honest and raw. All the young people involved have never had the opportunity to create a film before, and the fact they chose this outlet to discuss their mental health and the (lack of) support offered to them regarding their mental health says a lot about the film making process and how it can bring people together.
“This film discusses the mental health crisis, support available for young people and how they are made to feel regarding government funding allocation. At a time where third sector organisations are facing substantial cuts to their funding (we personally have faced a 72% funding cut from Edinburgh Council), this film was organically created by the young people expressing their views and how this impacts them.
“This topic is important to the young filmmakers as it speaks about issues that are close to them and is an honest representation of how they have been made to feel.
“All the young film makers involved are from homes that face low income, poverty, areas of deprivation and struggles with their mental health so this is a true representation of how young people are impacted by socio-economic differences.”
Actor, Presenter, author and host of this year’s awards Rose Ayling-Ellis MBE has said: “I am really honoured to be the 2025 Into Film Awards host and I am so impressed with the creativity and brilliance of all the young people involved.
“The standard of the nominated films is extraordinarily high and just shows how important it is to give young people a voice through filmmaking.”
Rose is a BAFTA Breakthrough Brit and a BAFTA TV winner, and she recently won an RTS and a Broadcast award for her work as the first deaf presenter of live sport hosted at the 2024 Paralympics; her stage debut in As You Like it was has been nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award and won the Stage Debut Award and she is the recipient of the Visionary Honours for Inspirational Person of the Year.
This year alone has already seen her front her second documentary for the BBC, release her first children’s book Marvellous Messages and appear in critically acclaimed BBC drama Reunion. Next, she will next guest star in an episode of Dr Who and lead ITV drama Code of Silence on 18th May.
THE NOMINEES ARE:
Best Animation – 5-11 (Sponsored by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, UK)
Cae yr Arth (Cae the Bear)
Made by a class of 30 young people aged 9-10 from Caedraw Primary School – Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
Feeling disillusioned by life in a bustling city, a kindly bear stumbles upon a rare piece of nature, and decides to try and help it flourish. But despite his best efforts, the big city may not be the right environment…
Offline Virus
Made by Dulcie-Bella, aged 11 – Banbury, England
Animated in a striking Japanese-influenced manga style, this vibrant music video shows a social media-obsessed girl losing all of her colour and vitality as she spends too much time online.
The Wellington Cobbler and Wrekin Giant
Made by 23 young people aged 8-11 from the film club at Meadows Primary School and Nursery – Ketley, England
Visible from their own film club window, this stop motion animation depicts the myth of how The Wrekin, a famous hill in Shropshire, was supposedly formed, by way of a clever shoe repairman and a fiendish giant…
Best Animation – 12-19 (Sponsored by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, UK)
And Then What?
Made by Evie, aged 18 – Croydon, England
Created with animation software Blender, this short 3D animation is a cautionary tale about pervasive social media and the risk of jumping to conclusions, as two friends discuss a classic case of crossed wires.
Animated Voices
Made by 10 young people aged 13-14 working with Gritty Realism Productions – Cardiff, Wales
Made by young people living in Cardiff that hail from ethnic minority backgrounds, this animation sees them exploring their personal experiences of life in the UK, in their own words, and using their own animation.
Mouse House
Made by Katie, aged 16, from Pate’s Grammar School – Cheltenham, England
In this charming stop motion animation for all ages, a family of mice set out for a local allotment in search of food, only to return home and find that one of their number has been left behind to fend for himself. Will he ever make it back home to the Mouse House?
Best Documentary (Sponsored by IMDb)
The Freedom of the Sea
Made by Rosie, age 17, from Varndean College – Brighton, England
Having emigrated in the wake of the Iranian revolution in the 1970s, one family – now long-settled in Brighton – discuss the difficult decision to leave their home, and the way being able to swim in the sea together is a perfect encapsulation of the freedom they found in the UK.
Kicking through Transition
Made by Indy, aged 15 – Woking, England
A teenager named Indy reminisces about his decision to come out as trans, and how that decision went on to affect his passion for playing football and his love of the beautiful game.
Mariupol
Made by Daria Savchenko, aged 18, from Gower College – Swansea, Wales
This affecting documentary sees one woman recounting her harrowing experiences in Mariupol, Ukraine, as the Russian invasion unexpectedly turned her life upside down. And though she’s now settled in Swansea, Wales, her testimony demonstrates the extreme and enduring trauma that many survivors continue to face.
Time for Action (Sponsored by Swatch)
Can we talk about Mental Health
Made by 8 young people aged 16-19 from Citadel Youth Centre – Edinburgh, Scotland
This call to action utilises many different kinds of animation to highlight not only the mental health struggles that many young people face, but to also address the systemic difficulties that exist in trying to access support. In the young people’s own voices this is a direct plea asking all of us, from teachers to government ministers, to do better.
Severn Wild
Made by 18 young people aged 16-19 working with MediaActive Projects and BFI Film Academy – Wem, England
This lyrical film is an impassioned plea to protect our country’s rivers, using beautiful animation, historical materials, and a poetic script to detail the far-reaching and catastrophic effects that humanity and civilisation have had on the River Severn, but also highlighting hopeful plans to restore the river and return it to a more natural state.
Tipping Point
Made by Araminta, aged 16 – Conwy, Wales
A short film that nevertheless packs a mighty punch, this is a stark wake-up call for anyone who’s ever found themselves spending hours mindlessly scrolling on their phone; a film with a vital message, urging and reminding us all to live our lives to the fullest.
Best Film – 5-11 (Sponsored by Working Title Films)
Ballet d’Or
Made by Fletcher, aged 11, and Jude, aged 9 – Newcastle, England
Eight year old Frankie finds himself caught between two passions when he contemplates quitting ballet to focus on football, until he makes a surprising discovery about his football coach that changes everything.
S.I. – Superficial Intelligence
Made by 20 young people aged 10-11 from Burnham Market Primary School – Burnham Market, England
Worried by the amount of homework they’ve been given, two children build their own deep thinking artificial intelligence robot named S.I. to complete all their homework for them. However, the more S.I. learns, the more out of control it seems to become…
Ynyr yr Ysbryd (Ynyr the Ghost)
Made by Briall (aged 10), Celt (10), Elai (9) and Fflur (10), from Clwb Ffilm Dyffryn Nantlle – Penygroes, Wales
When a young boy named Ynyr wakes up as a ghost, he finds that the experience isn’t as fun as he might have imagined. And when he’s interviewed for the local news channel about his lonely new existence, he draws the attention of the Council of Ghosts… can they help him find his place?
Best Film – 12-15 (Sponsored by Paramount Pictures)
Daydreaming
Made by 24 young people aged 11-14 from Sawston Village College – Cambridge, England
Seemingly caught daydreaming in their classes, we see the inner thoughts of three pupils. Between a meeting with artist Frida Kahlo, an encounter with Isaac Newton, and even a trip back in time to the Battle of Hastings, it’s clear that vacant looks and blank faces in the classroom may not always be telling the whole story!
Superhero School
Made by 11 young people aged 12-13 from Park School – Belfast, Northern Ireland
In a school for superheroes, the rivalry between Speedy and Quicklight usually ends with Speedy in front. However, that all changes when Quicklight steals Speedy’s superpowered trainers. Can the class of colourful heroes band together to help Speedy regain his powers?
Vacation
Made by Indi, aged 15 – Waterlooville, England
Bored out of his mind, a teenage boy finds himself captivated by a mysterious new video game. As he becomes increasingly hooked, he finds that eating, hygiene, and all other aspects of life simply fade away, until a concerned neighbour finally comes to check on him. But not all is as it seems…
Best Film – 16-19 (Sponsored by Warner Bros. Discovery)
Beware the Zoomies: An Unsolved Mystery
Made by Araminta, Cole, Micah, and Ethan – Conwy, Wales
In this pitch-perfect and very funny documentary pastiche, one poor girl’s unfortunate case of ‘the zoomies’ is explored by a doctor, her two long-suffering friends, and the uncontrollably energetic victim herself.
Come Inside
Made by 9 filmmakers aged 17-19 from Screen Education Edinburgh – Edinburgh, Scotland
In this deeply affecting drama, a young woman named Mia tries her best to take her of ailing father, who is suffering from early-onset dementia, his memory and mental faculties diminishing by the day.
No Dice
Made by Grace Holt, aged 19, from Wales High School – Sheffield, England
Four people of a certain age embark on an epic fantasy adventure by virtue of a role playing board game in this hilarious comedy that makes great use of special effects, and shows that there’s no age limit on having fun.
Best Story (Sponsored by Amazon MGM Studios)
Nominees in this category were selected from among all of the films submitted to this year’s Into Film Awards, across all categories
Deadlines
Made by Ben Melocha, aged 19 – Leicester, England
As the work piles up, a put-upon office worker lashes out and discovers something sinister and unsettling about her office computer. This smart, David Cronenberg-inspired horror taps into modern insecurities around AI and the replaceability of humans in the face of ever-advancing machines, as well as commenting on the faceless, sterile nature of some corporate jobs, and the mental health struggles that can arise when the pressures of work become overwhelming.
More Than One Way to Go Home
Made by Edward, aged 14 – Sanquhar, Scotland
Inspired by the filmmaker’s own personal experiences, this film follows a young autistic girl, who has to find her own way home when her brother leaves her to fend for herself. A well shot film that conveys some of the difficulties that autistic people can face, and demonstrates how the right support can be key to overcoming those challenges.
Tragicake
Made by a group of 10 young people aged 18-19 from the BFI Film Academy – Holywood, Northern Ireland
On her 18th birthday, a girl sets out to bake the perfect birthday cake. However, a past baking misadventure hangs heavy on her shoulders and comes back to haunt her in unexpected ways. Can she overcome her baking demons? It is a funny, smartly made film with a lovely story about perseverance and putting past mistakes behind us.
Ones To Watch (Sponsored by EON Productions)
The following are our chosen 2025 Ones to Watch
Dinah Naitamu, aged 18 – London, England
Dinah is a director, writer and actor who is currently attending the London Screen Academy. Her biggest goal is to increase opportunities for underrepresented groups, both in front of and behind the camera, and tell stories that are often excluded from the mainstream.
In 20 years, she wants to be halfway to EGOT status (winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony award), and working with the likes of Zendaya, Quinta Brunson and Ayo Edebiri.
Indi, aged 15 – Waterlooville, England
Indi is one of only two people to receive multiple nominations at this year’s Into Film Awards. He was also nominated at last year’s Into Film Awards for his film film Saving Yourself (and the World), which went on to be nominated for several other film festival awards, including the Horsham Film Festival.
Indi is a prolific filmmaker who has already created two horror films and a short production for his Film Studies GCSE this year, as well helping a local drama group create and edit a series of short films.
This year he plans to enter more film festivals, including Brighton Rocks, and aspires to one day have a film shortlisted by the Sundance Film Festival.
Michael Smith, aged 18 – Newton Aycliffe, England
Michael started making films at just 8-years-old, and by 16 his first feature film, documentary Streets of Steel: The History Of Witton Park, was screened at Witton Park Village Hall in January 2024.
The positive response he received from the local community underlined how important and successful his commitment to unearthing hidden histories has proved. Continuing in this vein, Michael has recently been commissioned by Teescraft Engineering and councillors from Durham County Council to create a documentary on the Stockton and Darlington Railway to celebrate its 200th anniversary in 2025.
This dedication to working with and in his local community is also apparent in Michael’s work with Kynren (an outdoor theatre event) and the Hardwick Live music festival. Michael has also volunteered as a videographer for Bishop Auckland FC for the past 5 years, filming matches and conducting post-match interviews.
Filmmaking Champions (Sponsored by Lucasfilm Ltd.)
The following are all Into Film Awards 2025 Filmmaking Champions
Dale Forder from St Luke’s CE Primary School – Northampton, England Dale has been supporting young people’s filmmaking since 2021. He started working on film projects during the COVID lockdown, when working with youth theatre groups and needing to find alternate ways for them to be creative without directly working in large groups, as well as a way to demonstrate their progress to parents.
Dale now runs an extra-curricular film club at St Luke’s CE Primary School in Northampton. The club is available to children across years 1-6, with the older children often helping the younger ones, helping them learn responsibilities and the importance of helping others.
Dale strives to give the young people as much creative freedom as possible and encourages them to only create films that help tackle topical issues of importance to young people. Previous films include You Are Enough, a film about exam stress and secondary school anxiety; Dyslexia & Me, a documentary/drama hybrid exploring children’s understanding of dyslexia (which won Best Film – 11 and Under at the 2024 Into Film Awards); and their most recent project, Navigating The Net, which is about internet and computer safety.
Steve Swindon from TAPE Community Music and Film – Llandudno, Wales Steve runs TAPE Community Music and Film, a community arts charity in North Wales that he started 17 years ago, where filmmaking is a cornerstone of their work.
A lot of TAPE’s recent work has been with young people at Ysgol Y Gogarth, an additional learning needs school in Llandudno. Working with 16-19 year olds with a wide range of additional needs, Steve strives to be a creative advocate for the ideas and ambitions of the young people he works with.
He is committed to creative inclusion and encouraging new ways of working, giving as many people as possible the opportunity to have their ambitions and ideas heard and explored through film.
St. Colmcille’s Primary School – Crossgar, Northern Ireland Based in a small, rural community, where young people face a number of challenges, and limited access to opportunities and the arts, St. Colmcille’s has gone above and beyond in using film to broaden the horizons of its pupils and open up a world of possibilities.
In February 2022 the school began a cross-circular project focused on the use of film. Departments across the school worked together to provide pupils with a range of transferable film-based skills, weaving filmmaking into normal lessons, and ultimately seeing each class create their own films.
Now, each year they host a glitzy premiere evening, complete with red carpet, a limousine, photo booth, ‘paparazzi’ and popcorn, giving the young filmmakers and the wider community – a unique and unforgettable experience.
A packed programme of music, film and storytelling kicks off Edinburgh Tradfest next weekend (2 May to 12 May) thanks to continued support from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland and the William Grant Foundation.
The Festival opens with Terra Kin supporting celebrated piper Ross Ainslie and the Sanctuary Band (Greg Lawson, Paul Towndrow, Steve Byrnes, Hamish Napier, James Lindsay, John Blease),who have featured on Ross’s last four albums including Pool released in 2024.
Terra Kin aka Hannah Findlay has been a dynamic force in Glasgow’s jazz, folk and pop scenes for many years, and for this year’s opening they will be joined by master musicians and rising stars: Su-a-Lee (cello), Roo Geddes (violin) Emma Pantel (violin) and Sarah Hanniffy (viola).
This opening night concert at the Queens Hall in Edinburgh kick starts an incredible 11 days of traditional and traditional-inspired music taking place at The Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, and other film and storytelling events happening across the City.
Other opening weekend highlights include Leveret, made up of some of the finest tunesmiths in modern folk music (Andy Cutting on melodeon, Sam Sweeney on fiddle, and Rob Harbron on English concertina); and the rich darkly-toned fiddle sounds of Lauren MacCollwho is joined by Rachel Newton (harp), Anna Massie (guitar), Mhairi Hall (piano), Mairearad Green (accordion) and James Lindsay on (bass) to play tunes from her most recent album Haar, along with a delve into her back catalogue.
This year’s festival commission on Monday night is For the Love of Trees featuring new tunes and old, by Mary Macmaster (The Poozies) and Donald Hay. Including The Cedar, Silent, a new piece about the tallest tree in Edinburgh’s Botanic Gardens that was felled by Storm Éowyn earlier this year, The Trees by rock band Pulp, and Chraobh nan Ubhal a traditional Gaelic waulking song.
Joining them will be super group of Scottish traditional musicians: Amy MacDougall (vocals, sampling), Mairearad Green (accordion, pipes, vocals), Pete Harvey (cello) and Ciaran Ryan (banjo/fiddle/guitar); andspecial guest Fiona Soe Paing who will open the concert with a selection of her electro alt-folk sounds.
Other hot tickets include: The Traveling Janes; BBC Scotland’s Young Trad Winner Ellie Beaton; Seckou Keita dubbed the ‘Hendrix of the kora’; Virginia’s finest string band The Hot Seats; piping legends the Finlay Macdonald Band; national treasures the Siobhan Miller Band; and singer, broadcaster and cultural ambassador Joy Dunlop who is this year’s Rebellious Truth guest. She will be sharing her story on 11 May, from when she first learnt Gaelic at school in Oban, to reading the weather on the BBC.
Plus, on Saturday 3 May, folk musicians playing at any level, can take part in #WorldPlayAStrathspeyDay by uploading a strathspey tune online using the hashtag, or by joining fiddlers, Anna Robertson, Catriona Price, Adam Sutherland and pianist extraordinaire Rory Matheson for a live afternoon of Scottish music to celebrate the beauty of the humble Strathspey. Alternatively, there is also the traditional May Day Parade which sets off down the Royal Mile at mid-day and finishes with a rally, music and speeches.
Fans of traditional storytelling can enjoy events at the Scottish Storytelling Centre including an introduction to Gaelic storytelling with the University of Edinburgh’s first Gaelic Writer in Residence Martin MacIntyre; storytelling from the Highlands and islands with Bea Fergusonand Heather Yule; and stories and songs told in the North-East Bothy Tradition by Phyll McBain, Jackie Ross, and ballad singer Allan Taylor, accompanied by fiddler Karin Paterson. In addition,storyteller Inez Alvarez Villa of TuFlamenco presents a tribute toFederico Garcia Lorca, Spain’s most iconic poet told through poetry and flamenco dance.
For film-goers there is this year’s Folk Film Gatherin’ – a fantastic programme of world film which includes a whole day dedicated to the late Douglas Eadie on Sunday, 11 May. This tribute includes screenings of docudrama An Ceasnachadh – An Interrogation of a Highland Lass starring a young Kathleen MacInnes, Ian MacRae and Dolina MacLennan.
The film tells the legendary story about the band of students who took the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey on Christmas morning 1950. National treasure Kathleen MacInnes, fresh from starring in the acclaimed production of Macbeth in London’s West End, will also perform her latest songs at the festival on Friday 9 May, all of which are set to appear on her next album.
Douglas Robertson and Jane-Ann Purdy, co-producers of Edinburgh Tradfest said: “This year’s line-up represents the wealth of Scottish musical talent with some very special visitors from England and overseas.
“The breadth of musical brilliance that will open the festival next Friday at the Queens Hall is incredible, and reflects the festival’s strength of programme and position as a key player in Scotland’s year-round calendar of unmissable events.
“Be there!”
Edinburgh Tradfest runs from Friday 2 May to Monday 12 May.
Following the great box office and family audience success of Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, Vue Lumière is releasing a second Bluey adventure on the big screen. Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection will be playing in over 500 cinemas across the UK and Ireland from Saturday 3rd May, just in time for the Early May Bank Holiday weekend.
Bluey at the Cinema: Let’s Play Chef Collection is an hour-long treat courtesy of BBC Studios and Ludo Studios, made up of eight episodes from the TV show’s three series, all based around the fun of food. The compilation will showcase memorable moments such as Takeaway, Fancy Restaurant, and highlight the Heeler’s skills in the kitchen with episodes such as Omelette and Duck Cake.
Commenting on the new and continued offer of Bluey in cinemas, Johnny Carr, Head of Event Cinema and Distribution, Vue Lumière said: “Following the tremendous success of Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, which garnered over 250k admissions at the box office last summer, we’re delighted to announce this unmissable cinema event – the world’s leading animated series and global phenomenon – for the May Bank Holiday weekend and beyond.”
Vue Lumière is the new film distribution division of Vue, bringing the best of independent and international films directly to audiences. Launched in 2024 with the release of the Italian break-out There’s Still Tomorrow and family hit Bluey at the Cinema: Family Trip Collection, the company is now building a slate for 2025 with the aim of releasing 10-12 films per year in the UK and Ireland – and ultimately beyond to other Vue territories. Vue is one of the world’s leading cinema operators, managing the most respected brands and spanning eight countries with 223 sites and 1959 screens.
About Bluey
The series follows Bluey, a loveable, inexhaustible, Blue Heeler dog, who lives with her Mum, Dad and her little sister, Bingo. Bluey uses her limitless energy to play games that unfold in unpredictable and hilarious ways, bringing her family and the whole neighbourhood into her world of fun.
Bluey is created and written by Joe Brumm and produced by Emmy® Award-winning Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS (Australia) and co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios Kids & Family. Financed in association with Screen Australia, Bluey is proudly 100% created, written, animated, and post produced in Brisbane Queensland, Australia, with funding from the Queensland Government through Screen Queensland and the Australian Government. BBC Studios Kids & Family hold the global distribution and merchandise rights.
In Australia, the show is broadcast on ABC. The series airs and streams to U.S. and global audiences (outside of Australia, New Zealand and China) across Disney Channel, Disney Jr. and Disney+ through a global broadcasting deal between BBC Studios Kids & Family and Disney Branded Television.
Bluey has won multiple craft and production awards around the world, including the 2019 International Emmy Kids Award and a 2022 BAFTA Children & Young People Award in the International category. In 2024 alone, Bluey won a Peabody Award, Television Critics Association (TCA) Award for “Outstanding Achievement in Children’s Programming” and a Rose d’Or award in the “Children & Youth” category, and many others.
