Cinetopia Recommends: 13-19 JULY 2026

Film screenings, events, opportunities and film news for the week / month ahead, covering Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond! Helping you stay connected to the film community... 🎉

This week: A big shout out to volunteer writer / curator Tamara van Strijthem who compiled this week’s newsletter and lent it her lovely writing flair!

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Read on for our pick of film screenings, events, opportunities and industry news from Edinburgh, Glsagow and beyond!

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AROUND TOWN

Film screenings & events in Edinburgh and Glasgow 🍿

EDINBURGH

FILM SCREENINGS

OUR PICKS FROM THE FILMHOUSE:

• It’s Odyssey time. If you’re going to spend 3 hours watching a star-studded epic journey featuring Cyclops, nymphs, mendacious suitors and terrifying sea monsters (here’s looking at you, Scylla. Or is it Charybdis?), go for a sumptuous, celluloid experience in Screen 1. Christopher Nolan’s version of Homer’s epic can be experienced in its 70mm glory three times a day. Every day from Fri 17 July, 12.45pm, 4:15pm and 7.45pm

• Divorce Iranian Style: one of renowned UK documentary filmmaker Kim Longinotto’s most acclaimed films, this funny, tragic, stirring, fly-on-the-wall chronicle of several weeks in an Iranian divorce court provides a unique window into the intimate circumstances of Iranian women’s lives. Following three different women of different ages and backgrounds in their bid to obtain a divorce, Longinotto showcases the strength, ingenuity, and guile with which they confront biased laws, a Kafka-esque administrative system, and their husbands’ and families’ rage. Screening as part of DocScreen. 15 July, 6.10pm

  

• Iran Weekend 2026: An initiative of Women Life Freedom Edinburgh supported by the University of Edinburgh, this first edition presents a powerful selection of works by Iranian filmmakers that explore conflict, sacrifice, trauma, gender, and everyday life. The films offer a unique window into how directors have navigated censorship, challenged propaganda, and addressed complex social issues. The special season features two special discussion events, including a Q&A with acclaimed Iranian director Mahnaz Mohammadi, whose film opens the festival, and a conversation with British-Iranian filmmaker Hassan Nazer.17-19 July, times vary

• True Stories: screening alongside Stop Making Sense as part of a special spotlight on Scotland-born musician, artist, filmmaker and all around genius David Byrne, True Stories showcases Byrne’s maverick creative flair in this weirdly wonderful comedy, in which a Texas town’s 150th anniversary parade and talent show provides the backdrop for a series of vignettes with eccentric characters.
  17 July, 3.10pm & 18 July, 8.45pm

OUR PICKS FROM THE CAMEO:

• Persepolis: iconic animated adaptation of the late Marjane Satrapi’s graphic novel, which follows a young girl’s coming of age in Iran following the 1979 Iranian Revolution, and her tentative steps into adulthood and exile. Striking, acerbic and deeply moving, it features the best Eye of the Tiger montage ever committed to screen (yes, we stand by this). 13 July, 8.10pm

  

• Nirvana: the Band the Show the Movie: as if one Youtube/web series crossover wasn’t enough for the silver screen, here comes another. Based on Matt Johnson and Jay McCarrol’s cult web and TV series, Nirvanna the Band the Show, the film sees hapless bandmates Matt and Jay attempt to book a famed Toronto concert venue, only to travel accidentally back in time to 2008.
  As every interaction threatens to impact their future selves, the pair’s only hope of getting back to the future lies in finding an obscure Canadian soft drink...
  Screening daily till 16 July, times vary

• Barry Lyndon (4K restoration): Stanley Kubrick bent the conventions of the historical drama to his own will in this dazzling vision of a pitiless aristocracy. In picaresque detail, Barry Lyndon chronicles the adventures of an incorrigible trickster (Ryan O’Neal) whose opportunism takes him from an Irish farm to the battlefields of the Seven Years’ War and the parlors of high society. For the most sumptuously crafted film of his career, Kubrick recreated the decadent surfaces and intricate social codes of the period, evoking the light and texture of eighteenth-century painting with the help of pioneering cinematographic techniques and lavish costume and production design, all of which earned Academy Awards. The result is a masterpiece—a sardonic, devastating portrait of a vanishing world whose opulence conceals the moral vacancy at its heart. (Synopsis: Criterion Collection). 16 July, 6.30pm

  

• The Misfits: The last (completed) film to star Marilyn Monroe or Clark Gable, this romantic drama was adapted by Arthur Miller from one of his own short stories and directed by John Houston. Its production was famously beleaguered by relentless desert heat, the break-up of Miller and Monroe’s marriage and Monroe’s deteriorating mental and physical health yet, though initial reviews were mixed and it was considered a commercial failure at the time of its release, its reputation has grown and it is now widely regarded as one of the great classic Hollywood films of the 1960s.
  July 19, 2.20pm

AROUND TOWN:

• On Falling
  Another chance to catch a community screening of this acclaimed drama by Laura Carreira, who will be in attendance along with Boyan Karabaliev (Workers’ Observatory), and Gordon Maloney (Living Rent). The screening is free; organisers are asking for donations to help cover the cost of screening the film and venue, with any profit redirected to future events. DUNCAN PLACE COMMUNITY HUB EH6 8HW / 14 July, 6.30pm

• The Mouthpiece of the Gods
  Carnyx & Co presents The Mouthpiece of the Gods: An evening of music and film featuring John Kenny with soprano Adaya Malca-Peled and sound designer Tim Cooper. In 1992 John became the first person for 2,000 years to play the great Celtic horn known as the carnyx, and has since gone on to perform and lecture with it globally. Over the past four years Adaya and John have established an extraordinary duo, exploring the voice with carnyx and the trombone. The evening concludes with “Multiplex”, a film by Kenneth McQueenie inspired by John’s music, performed live. PIANODROME BRUNTSFIELD EH10 4NB / 15 July, 7.30pm

• Operation Recomply
  Told through the eyes of the Filton 25’s loved ones, the film documents the activists’ fight for justice as the state escalates its crackdown on the pro-Palestine movement. An urgent documentary, on a case that marks a significant and controversial turning point for the rule of law, and for direct action as a form of protest, in the UK. OUT OF THE BLUE DRILL HALL EH6 8RG / 17 July, 7pm

  

• Performance Screening
  A series of performance films by featured ‘Pass the remote’ artist Nicole, who works across performance, video, and sculpture to explore the circulation of femininity within economies of desire, spectacle, and consumption. Drawing on personal memories and Latin American popular aesthetics, her work examines how the female body becomes a site where fantasy, value, and power intersect. Her performances are built from simple choreographies—reading, sitting, licking sweets, walking in heels—that transform everyday gestures into ritualized displays. SANKI EH3 5LT / 7pm

EVENTS:

• QUEER FILM QUIZ

  Are you a queer film lover? Then join us and other film enthusiasts for a Queer Film Quiz hosted by Programmed with Pride! This event is for LGBTQ+ people (16+) and is hosted by Programmed with Pride with support from LGBT Health and Wellbeing. DUNCAN PLACE COMMUNITY HUB EH6 8HW / 17 July, 7pm

GLASGOW

FILM SCREENINGS

OUR PICKS FROM GFT:

• Shoot the People: documentary capturing photographer and activist Misan Harriman’s journey documenting global protest movements that drive social change. Following Harriman as he highlights the resilience of grassroots activists fighting for equality, civil rights, and social justice, the film showcases the intersectionality of these movements and their collective power. With historical context, interviews with activists, and explorations of digital activism, the documentary reveals how Harriman’s lens brings the world’s activism to light, inspiring viewers to recognize their own power in shaping a more just society. The 16 July screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Andy-Mundy Castle. Screening daily from 10 July, times vary

  

• Melt it! The Film of the Iceman: In the 1980s and 1990s, Anthony Irvine was a comedian and cabaret performer. His act was a little unusual: as the Iceman, he went on stage… to melt ice. He’d bring a large block of ice onto the stage then try (and sometimes fail) to melt it in a variety of creative ways. His fans included Mike Myers, Stewart Lee and Bill Bailey. In 2010, when Robert Wringham wrote his book about this era of comedy, the Iceman could not be found but a few years later, Anthony Irvine popped up again — this time as a visual artist called Aim. What was going on? Screening followed by a Q&A with writer Robert Wringham and director Mark Cartwright. 13 July, 8.20pm

• Mare’s Nest: Based on Don DeLillo’s The Word for Snow and shot on 16mm, in both black and white and colour, Mare’s Nest is a mysterious, poetic and thought-provoking film from artist and experimental filmmaker Ben Rivers.
  Screening daily from 17 July, times vary

• The Girls: A tender and transporting journey through young dreams and first loves. Kusum, a poor but studious village girl who cleans the house of a wealthy family, sparks a connection with Nimal, the family’s prized son. Soma, Kusum’s younger sister, pursues beauty pageants and dreams of acting, believing it’s her best chance of a better life. What unfolds is a lyrical and poignant coming-of-age story, brimming with yearning and feminine sensibility. A sumptuous 4K restoration of Sumitra Peries’ groundbreaking 1978 Sri Lankan film.
  Screening daily from 17 July, times vary

AROUND TOWN

• Trash Cinema presents: Tucker and Dale vs Evil
  Tucker and Dale are finally getting to do up the secluded cabin of their dreams. You know, air out the chainsaw and breathe some life into the ol’ woodchipper. But these holidaying city kids keep getting the wrong idea! And dang if they ain’t getting themselves just as dead at the same time. What’s an honest hillbilly supposed to do?! Join Trash Cinema for a comedy of terrors with Tucker and Dale vs Evil! Slapstick genius with big laughs and even better kills. THE OLD HAIRDRESSER’S G2 5AR / 13 July, 7pm

  

• Exiled for Existing: LGBTQ Refugees in Scotland
  Watch a new short film made by a group of more than 40 LGBTQ refugees and asylum-seekers in Glasgow, in which they explore the impact of having to flee a place to be themselves. The film will be followed by a Q&A with some of the film-makers. This community film project was produced by the Glasgow workers co-operative, Media Co-op, in partnership with LGBT Unity Glasgow and the National Library of Scotland. NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SCOTLAND AT KELVINHALL G3 8AW / 15 July, 6pm

• Battle Royale - Open air screening
  Forget The Hunger Games or Squid Game: this is the real deal. Experience The cult Japanese thriller that redefined survival cinema. QUEEN’S PARK ARENA G42 8QR / 15 July, 6pm

  

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FURTHER AFIELD AND FURTHER AHEAD

Film-related treats happening around the rest of Scotland and UK!

• EDINBURGH - Film Screening & Discussion with The Watts Brothers of Far North Film: A documentary film exploring how the arts and media has impacted the last 70 years of culture. The film-makers, Fionn and Toby Watts, along with Murray Watts who is featured in the documentary will be present on the evening. The event is geared mainly to people who are interested in the interface of art and faith. Murray Watts draws on a lifetime of working in film and theatre and his own personal journey. WAYFARER AT THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE / 25 July, 7pm

• EDINBURGH: creative soundLAB: All Things Podcast: an interactive evening dedicated entirely to audio creation and podcasting. Following last year’s completely sold-out success, this event is your chance to connect directly with leading industry experts. We are proud to collaborate with top-tier podcast publishers and the Scotland Audio Network to bring you an immersive, hands-on experience. BRIGHT RED TRIANGLE STUDIO / 27 July, 6pm

  

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OPPORTUNITIES

JOBS / WORK OPPORTUNITIES COMING UP:

• Senior Fundraising Executive, EIFF: Freelance, fixed term contract, September 2026 to December 2027. Fee: estimated £55k (3 - 4 days a week)
  The post holder will be responsible for driving Edinburgh International Film Festival’s fundraising strategy, playing a central role in securing a robust and sustainable financial foundation for the organisation. Apply by 15 July

  Talent Development Coordinator, Glasgow Film Festival: Fixed term, full-time contract, August 2026 to 26 March 2027. Salary: £33,240 per annum. A key role within the Glasgow Film Festival Industry team, supporting the Industry Manager to coordinate and lead on the festival’s growing talent development initiatives and strategic priorities. Apply by 10am 15 July

  Senior Digital Marketing Executive, Perth Theatre and Concert Hall: full-time, permanent contract. Salary: £28,502 This newly defined and significantly enhanced post has been purposefully redesigned to reflect the organisation’s growing priorities around digital performance, audience development and income generation. As a senior specialist role, the postholder will take substantial ownership of PTCH’s digital channels, audience insight and marketing systems, working closely with the Marketing & Communications Manager to maximise reach, engagement and revenue. Apply by 20 July

• Volunteer Community Manager for NEIFF 2026: Salary: Voluntary, plus full festival access. North East International Film Festival (NEIFF) is looking for a creative, passionate Volunteer Community Manager. Commitment: Part-time (Flexible hours leading up to the festival, increasing during event week)

  Duration: July – November 2026. Apply by 15 July

• Talent Development Coordinator - Glasgow Film Festival: A key role within the Glasgow Film Festival Industry team, supporting the Industry Manager to coordinate and lead on the festival’s growing talent development initiatives and strategic priorities. Salary: £33,240 per annum; Contract Type: Fixed Term; Term: August 2026 – 26 March 2027. Apply by 15 July

• Freelance Marketing Assistants - BEUnited: Be United is seeking Freelance Marketing Assistants to support the delivery of Be United’s marketing, digital communications, and creative media output. Salary: £13.45 per hour, 15 hours a week, from July 2026 – 31 October 2026. Apply by 19 July

• Volunteer Opportunities for Women Over Fifty Film Festival 2026: The Women Over Fifty Film Festival (WOFFF) celebrates the achievements, creativity and stories of older women on screen and behind the camera. Through film, conversation and community, WOFF champion the voices of women over 50 and creates opportunities for audiences, filmmakers and industry professionals to connect across generations. Multiple roles available. Apply by 3 August.

• Marketing Manager, Altitude Films (London): Altitude Film Distribution are looking for a commercially astute, highly proactive, and experienced Marketing Manager, who is passionate about film, to take on a key role in our small, busy Distribution team releasing films into UK and Irish cinemas and on home entertainment formats. Hybrid London / work-from-home. Salary £35,000, Full Time, TO APPLY Please either e-mail info@altitudefilment.com with your CV and a brief cover letter or reach out to our Head of Marketing, Kenji Lloyd, directly on LinkedIn.

• HippFest Producer (Freelance) - Salary: 89 days @ £165 - £180 p/d dependant on experience. This role will oversee all production aspects of the Festival and work as part of the friendly and dedicated HippFest 2027 team. Term: Temporary contract, Mon 14 Sep 2026 to Fri 1 Oct 2027 Apply by 10 August

  Emerging Festival Producer - Folkestone Film Fest: 10 paid freelance days at £120 per day. Work from 10 September, including the four festival days (22–25 October) in Folkestone. Apply by 29 July.

• HippFest Marketing Officer - Salary: £14,350 - £18,975 (115 days @ £130 - £165 p/d). Term: 1 Sep 2026 – 31 Aug 2027. Place of Work: Remote working in Central Belt Scotland with the option to use Falkirk Council offices. HippFest is Scotland’s first and only festival of silent film with live music, centred in and inspired by Scotland’s oldest cinema, featuring exceptional screenings, commissions, workshops, community events and touring. Apply by 20 July.

CALL FOR ENTRIES:

• Glasgow Short Film Festival - The 20th edition of Glasgow Short Film Festival will take place 17-21 March 2027.We are currently inviting submissions to two categories: Scottish Short Film Award: Films are considered eligible for the Scottish competition if at least two of the following key positions: director, writer, producer – are filled by one or more people resident in Scotland.

  Bill Douglas Award for International Short Film Award: Any film not eligible for the Scottish competition is eligible for the International Competition.

  Early bird deadline 4 August

FUNDING:

• Creative Scotland Crowdmatch Fund: Creative Scotland is offering match funding of up to £10,000 for Scotland-based artists, creators and cultural innovators who are raising funds for eligible artistic and creative projects. Apply by 30 September

• UK/IRL Culture Connects Grant 2026/27: This programme supports artistic collaboration between Ireland and the four nations of the UK, connecting emerging artists and creative practitioners to develop ideas through in-person exchange. By British Council Ireland. Applicants can request up to €3,000 (smaller amounts are also eligible). Apply by 31 July.

COURSES & WORKSHOPS:

• Animatic 2026/27 Talent Lab - Glasgow Film Festival: Glasgow Film Festival: Animatic, now in its fourth year, is an innovative talent development lab for Scottish-based creative teams and studios, designed to help develop animated films and TV shows. Partnering with leading animation and screen industry organisations, participants will engage in an intensive programme of workshops to refine their projects. The lab will culminate in a Live Pitch at GFF27’s Industry Focus, where participants will present their projects to an expert panel. Apply by 14 August

• Animation Academy: Animation Academy is an online course for 16 – 25 year olds across Scotland! Are you interested in animation, visual storytelling or curious about a career in the film industry? Work together to watch, experiment and create animation. Apply by 11 September

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NEWS:

Film stories, productions, news, reports, industry insights, and other tidbits that have caught our attention this week!

• Debut feature film announced for AI “actor” Tilly Norwood, produced by same studio for the Tillyverse

• Sky and ITV seal landmark £1.6bn deal

• Scottish Youth Film Foundation launches second Films of Scotland competition

• Netflix Among Parties in Early Talks to Buy Letterboxd: Report

• Film locations: The strange history behind Scotland’s ‘Odyssey forest’

Film Festivals currently running / coming up:

• Edinburgh International Film Festival / 13 - 19 Aug 2026 / Edinburgh

• Venice International Film Festival / 2-12 September / Venice, Italy

• Montrose Landxsea Film Festival / 11-13 September / Montrose, Angus

• Sea Change Film Festival / 18-23 September / Island of Tiree, Scotland

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