SATURDAY 3rd FEBRUARY at WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
PROGRAMME
Something for everyone at North Edinburgh Film Festival
Tag: film
Nominees announced for Gaelic short film competition
Luca Kerr from Edinburgh has been nominated for the Inspiration Award for his film ‘Campachadh.’
While some may be eagerly awaiting the Baftas and Oscars, Scotland’s Gaelic communities are busy preparing for Gaelic film’s biggest night of the year: the FilmG Awards.
Over 50 films have been shortlisted for the FilmG Awards, a night celebrating the best Gaelic storytellers and filmmakers in Scotland and beyond. Winners will be crowned in categories such as Best Performance, Best Production Design, Technical Excellence, and the Best Film Award.
Leading the way with four nominations in the Under-18 competition is ‘A Bheil Thu An Sin?’, a psychological drama by the new independent filmmaking group Lost Rollerskate Pictures from Glasgow Gaelic School.
In the Over-18 competition, Inverness charity FC Sonas’s ‘Blàr nan Gàidheal’, which tells the story of the first-ever official football match in Gaelic, also has four nominations, closely followed by Isle of Lewis-based Tormod MacLeod’s funeral farce ‘An Tiodhlaiceadh’ (three nominations).
With the judges’ job now complete, the only categories still to be decided are the FilmG Choice Awards, with the public vote for these categories still open until midnight, 2nd February. Votes can be cast online by the public at www.FilmG.co.uk.
Rachel Kennedy, FilmG Judge and star of hit BBC ALBA drama series An Clò Mòr, said: “It’s been a record-breaking year for FilmG, with over 160 entries – the highest number of submissions since the competition began. The appetite for the competition is brilliant, but it makes our job as judges incredibly difficult as there is so much talent to choose from.
“Our shortlist has been carefully considered and showcases the best Gaelic filmmakers based on production, technical ability, and storytelling. From highly skilled animation to tear-jerking documentaries and cutting-edge dramas, the high level of talent, creativity, and effort has been evident in every film shortlisted, and they are all deserved finalists.”
FilmG Project Manager, Megan Dale, said: “The theme for this year was “Mo Shealladh’ (My Point of View), and all the entrants embraced this by showcasing different perspectives and playing with form. The shortlisted films show a deep understanding of perspective and the importance of listening to Scotland’s multitude of voices.
“The nominees represent different perspectives from all over Scotland, including Thurso, Portree, Glasgow, Harris, Lewis, Dunoon, and Inverness. Often, when we think of the film industry, we picture London or Glasgow, but FilmG shows that a wealth of talent can be found in all corners of Scotland (and beyond) and that it is important to encourage these voices to be heard.”
MG ALBA’s Head of Publishing, Maggie Taylor, said: “Congratulations to all the nominees this year – it’s wonderful to see such a diverse selection of stories and to acknowledge the skill, talent, and enormous technical effort it takes to bring them alive. The Awards night is where this talent can be recognised, and I’m excited to see who will be crowned FilmG winners on 23 February.
“For the first time, the nominees list includes Gaelic filmmakers from the Isle of Man and Canada, showing the international reach of the Gaelic film competition. We hope to continue developing FilmG’s transnational ties and supporting the talented filmmakers emerging across Scotland.”
The FilmG Awards will take place on 23 February in the Lomond Auditorium of Glasgow’s illustrious SEC.
The awards will be live-streamed to YouTube, with a highlights programme to be broadcast two days later on BBC ALBA (Sunday 25 February).
Leading Scottish film producer Chris Young to spearhead Sean Connery Talent Lab
NFTS appoints renowned Scottish film producer and founder of award-winning Young Films to lead the Sean Connery Talent Lab in Edinburgh
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is thrilled to announce acclaimed Scottish film producer and founder of Young Films, Chris Young will lead the inaugural Sean Connery Talent Lab as part of the expansion of NFTS Scotland.
Bringing a wealth of industry expertise and a legacy of close to four decades in filmmaking, Chris will spearhead the transformative 12-month programme aimed at developing emerging filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.
Aspiring writers/directors, producers, cinematographers, editors and production designers have until midnight on 29th January to apply, with the first cohort embarking on their training journey in Leith from April.
To ensure the programme is as accessible to as many people as possible, each of the 30 places are substantially subsidised, with 70% of fees generously underwritten by the Sean Connery Foundation.
Since its inception in 1986, Young Films has become synonymous with critically acclaimed and award-winning productions, spanning feature films and television.
From early successes like Venus Peter and Gregory’s Two Girls to developing The Inbetweeners for Channel 4, with the spin off film, The Inbetweeners Movie becoming the UK’s highest-grossing comedy film, Chris Young has been at the forefront of shaping the Scottish film landscape.
His commitment to fostering talent is evident in initiatives such as the nine-series Scottish Gaelic drama Bannan, created on the Isle of Skye, and the establishment of the Young Films Foundation in 2017, focused on training the next generation of Scottish screenwriters.
The Sean Connery Talent Lab is set to become a cornerstone of the Scottish film industry. In his role as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Chris Young will leverage his extensive experience to guide and mentor 30 emerging creatives as they hone and develop their craft and increase the scale and ambition of their work. They will bring to life their own unique short films, made with the support of BBC Film.
The NFTS has partnered with the Sean Connery Foundation for the Sean Connery Talent Lab and it is supported by a wide range of other industry partners, trusts and foundations who have pledged their support to underpin the programme with additional funding, bursaries and scholarships.
BBC Film is the production partner with several other partners joining the Talent Lab including: The Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films.
After 12 intensive months, the Sean Connery Talent Lab will culminate in the creation of six short films that will serve as powerful industry ‘calling cards’, offering an invaluable launchpad for the 30 talented individuals to make their mark on the world of film.
The final films will be submitted for both UK and international film festivals and will premiere at a prestigious showcase event, with industry figures from across Scotland, the UK and beyond invited to attend the screenings.
Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be awarded an NFTS Diploma in Filmmaking.
Jon Wardle, NFTS Director said:“We are delighted to welcome Chris Young as head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.
“This is an exceptional opportunity for the brightest talents in Scottish filmmaking to harness their unique creative voices and under the guidance of Chris, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to make a lasting impression on the Scottish creative industry and beyond.”
Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab commented: “For over 35 years, my unwavering passion has been to cultivate, sustain, and champion new talent in Scotland.
“This journey began with the establishment of Young Films, and I am thrilled to continue this mission by leading the Sean Connery Talent Lab in collaboration with the NFTS.
“The Lab represents an exciting opportunity to usher in a dynamic new generation of world-class filmmakers in Scotland, spanning crucial disciplines. Much like the NFTS has done over the years, and continues to do, the Sean Connery Talent Lab is poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry.
“To all those with talent and aspirations to contribute to the vibrant Film and TV landscape in Scotland, I wholeheartedly encourage you to apply. This Lab is more than just a programme; it’s a game-changer for Scotland, and its impact will reverberate across the industry for years to come.”
Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “Chris Young’s infectious energy, connections across industry, and demonstrated commitment to launching breakthrough talent make him the ideal choice as the inaugural leader of the Sean Connery Talent Lab.”
Jason Connery added: “We are so grateful to our partners who have come onboard, and we are keen to meet the first group of creators when the Talent Lab kicks off in the Spring.”
Applications for the Sean Connery Talent Lab will close at midnight on Monday 29th January 2024.
For more information on how to apply and for eligibility criteria, go to:
Barbenheimer DIY double bill returns to Vue this weekend as both films receive Oscar nominations
Film fans are in for a treat this weekend, with two of 2023’s biggest films – Barbie and Oppenheimer – returning to Vue sites in Edinburgh.
This week saw both films securing an impressive 21 Oscar nominations between them. Together, they created the cultural phenomenon ‘Barbenheimer’ – a huge moment not just in cinema, but in pop culture as a whole.
It was revealed on Tuesday (23 January) that Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer is up for 13 gongs, while Greta Gerwig’s Barbie is not far behind with eight.
To celebrate the impressive feat, film fans will once again be able to enjoy a DIY double feature of both titles at Vue Edinburgh Omni and Vue Edinburgh Ocean this Saturday.
Toby Bradon, General Manager at Vue UK & Ireland, said: ‘We’re thrilled to be welcoming back not one but two great blockbusters on Saturday 27 January and can’t wait to relive the magical movie moments from Great Gerwig and Christopher Nolan.
‘Both films performed brilliantly at the Golden Globes, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for them at this year’s Oscars.’
Tickets start from just £7.99 when booked online. Visit myvue.com to find out more.
New tax credits for British film, TV and video game makers start today
- New and improved tax credit system for film, TV and video game production companies starts from today
- An extra £42,500 in relief for children’s TV, animated TV and animated film production
- £5,000 in relief for high-end TV, film or video game production
British film, TV and video game producers will benefit from new, more generous tax credits that start today (1 January 2024).
To maximise the potential of the UK’s cutting-edge production industry and help incubate unique British talent, the government’s Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit and the Video Games Expenditure Credit replace the previous tax reliefs for film, TV and video games.
All companies will receive more tax relief than they did under the previous system, greater flexibility over production decisions and greater clarity about the amount of credit companies can expect to receive.
Nigel Huddleston, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said: “We are backing the makers of the next Barbie, Happy Valley and Grand Theft Auto with this new, more generous, tax credit system for British production talent.
“The UK is a world leader in creativity, and we want to ensure that continues well into the future by making it easier for British film, TV and video games to thrive.”
Under the new system, a children’s TV production, animated TV production or film with £1 million of qualifying expenditure will receive an additional £42,500 in relief. A high-end TV production, film production or video game will receive £5,000 in relief. To ensure fairness, the uplift in relief for animation will be extended to include animated films as well as TV programmes.
The credits will be calculated directly from a production or game’s qualifying expenditure, instead of being an adjustment to the company’s taxable profit.
Animation and children’s TV productions will be eligible for a higher credit rate of 39%, a rate increase of 5.5% under the previous reliefs. The 34% credit rate for film, high end TV and video games is roughly equivalent to a rate increase of 0.5% under the previous tax reliefs.
The new system applies to the whole of the UK.
The government has listened to feedback from industry that companies will need sufficient time to adapt to the new expenditure credits. For this reason, productions and games in development on 1 April 2025 may continue to use the previous tax reliefs until they end on until 1 April 2027.
The move to reform tax relief for entertainment productions and video games was announced at the Spring Budget in March 2023. The system implemented today was developed hand in glove with the UK entertainment industry, with consultations on both the policy itself and the draft legislation. It is being legislated as part of the Finance Bill 2023-24.
The UK’s creative industry is already worth £126bn and the UK has the largest video game employee base in Europe, at nearly 21,000 by the last estimate.
Today’s new tax credit system is the latest move by UK Government in support for British creative industries. The Chancellor also announced that full-expensing will be made permanent in 2023’s Autumn Statement, helping creative businesses invest for the less by saving them 25p in every £1 they spend on qualifying equipment and machinery.
At Spring Budget 2023, the Chancellor also extended the rates of relief for theatre, orchestra and museums for two additional years to April 2025.
In September last year, coinciding with a visit by the Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to Warner Bros. Studios in Los Angeles, it was announced that the production giant would expand their studio in Leavesden, Hertfordshire, in 2024. The move is expected to create 4,000 new jobs in the UK and contribute more than £200m to the UK economy.
Fort Kinnairs hosts local charity for festive film screening
Fort Kinnaird has partnered with local charity Magdalene Community Education Centre to treat young people in the city to a free screening of the newly released Wonka film and bring a smile to their faces this festive season.
Twenty children, aged between six and fourteen, were invited to see the highly anticipated movie and were also treated to popcorn and a range of other goodies to tuck into.
Magdalene Community Education Centre offers a weekly programme of activities for children, teenagers, adults and older people who face social and economic barriers, helping to bring local people together.
The centre plays a vital role in supporting the East of Edinburgh community and is run in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council.
Rab Hogg, Senior Youth & Children’s Work Organiser at Magdalene Community Education Centre, said: “There were lots of happy faces as our young people enjoyed a trip to Fort Kinnaird’s Odeon cinema to see the new Wonka movie.
“Like many across the country, the families we work with are experiencing enhanced financial pressures at this time of year, so it is very important to have established partnerships like this to help take the pressure off those struggling in the community and spread some festive joy.”
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “Supporting our local community and giving back to those that work tirelessly to help make it a better place is extremely important to us.
“It was fantastic to welcome Magdalene Community Education Centre to Fort Kinnaird and work together with our partners at Odeon Cinema to put on a fun day out for the young people and volunteers.”
For more information on Fort Kinnaird, please visit www.fortkinnaird.com/
The Top 10 Feel-Good Movies for Adults: A Psychologist’s Take
In a world that often seems filled with challenges and stressors, films targeted at an adult audience can offer not just entertainment, but also valuable psychological insights and a much-needed escape from the same old festive films …
Orange County CBD have teamed up with psychologist James Williams, who picked out 10 feel-good movies for adults, each chosen for their unique psychological insights and their ability to uplift and inspire:
The Grand Budapest Hotel
Psychological Insight:
This whimsical yet profound film illustrates the beauty of friendship and loyalty in a visually stunning and quirky way. It underscores the importance of human connections and the memories we create with others.
Silver Linings Playbook
Psychological Insight:
A candid look at mental health issues, this film highlights the power of optimism and finding the ‘silver lining’ in tough situations. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding, compassion, and accepting one’s flaws.
Lost in Translation
Psychological Insight:
This film explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the search for meaning in life. It beautifully captures the psychological journey of finding solace and understanding in unexpected places.
Little Miss Sunshine
Psychological Insight:
This dark comedy deftly balances humor with serious themes, exploring the complexities of family life and individual struggles. It highlights the psychological importance of acceptance, support, and unconditional love within a family.
Amélie
Psychological Insight:
A charming and visually rich film, Amélie explores the joy of small things and the impact of kindness. It shows the psychological benefits of altruism and its uplifting effects on mental health.
Garden State
Psychological Insight:
This film delves into themes of self-discovery, healing, and the search for authenticity. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the journey towards understanding oneself and forming genuine connections.
Midnight in Paris
Psychological Insight:
A magical realist journey into the world of nostalgia and the allure of a ‘golden age.’ It offers a psychological exploration of the dangers of romanticizing the past at the expense of the present.
The Intouchables
Psychological Insight:
This heartwarming story of an unlikely friendship showcases the transformative power of human connection and empathy. It highlights how breaking down social and physical barriers can lead to fulfilling and life-changing relationships.
Sideways” (2004)
Psychological Insight:
A nuanced exploration of midlife crises, friendship, and personal growth. It demonstrates the psychological process of coping with disappointment and the journey towards self-acceptance.
Her
Psychological Insight:
This unique film offers a meditation on love, loss, and the human need for connection in an increasingly digital world. It explores the psychological impacts of technology on relationships and the nature of intimacy.
Each of these films, while catering to an adult audience, offers a deep dive into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. They are not just movies; they’re experiences that resonate on a psychological level, providing both entertainment and a chance for introspection and emotional growth.
Through their narratives, these films remind us of the power of resilience, the importance of human connections, and the endless possibilities that life offers, making them perfect for those seeking a feel-good experience with depth and maturity.
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
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.