Cinetopia Recommends: 6-12 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... đ
This week: Filmhouse continues its 1st birthday celebrations đ with a lot of classics and favourites, some great Q&A screenings in both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and lots of opportunities to hang out with other film nerds with in-person events! đ€
Read on for our pick of film screenings, events, opportunities and industry news from across Scotland and beyond.
AROUND TOWN
Film screenings & events in Edinburgh and Glasgow đż
EDINBURGH
FILM SCREENINGS
OUR PICKS FROM THE FILMHOUSE:
Spotlight Taiwan 2026: Spotlight Taiwan returns in 2026 with a special programme featuring three acclaimed documentaries - Seven Ages of A Man, Island of the Winds, and Daughter of Nectar - offering distinctive perspectives on environment, history, artistic heritage, and social memory. The result of years of dedicated filmmaking, these award-winning works explore ecological change, artistic production under colonial rule, and the lives of Lo-sheng Sanatorium residents. Together, they reveal multiple faces of Taiwan while engaging universal themes of identity, resilience, and human dignity. 11 & 12 July
BIrds of War + Q&A: This screening will be followed by a Q&A with directors Janay Boulos and Abd Alkader Habak. Janay Boulos, a young Lebanese journalist at the BBC, first contacts Syrian cameraman Abd Alkader Habak for footage during the final months of one of the bloodiest and most decisive turning points in Syriaâs brutal civil war. Through texts, video exchanges, voice messages and shared moments from afar, their bond deepens as Janay discovers more about the extraordinary young man documenting violence for her reports, whilst Habakâs world becomes increasingly perilous. When an act of compassion forces Habak to flee Syria, their relationship enters a new phase: for the first time, they meet in person. 7 July, 6.15pm (further screenings take place throughout the week)
The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie: One of Luis Buñuelâs greatest and funniest films, a scathing and surrealistic political comedy masterpiece about a wealthy group of friends repeatedly prevented from beginning their elaborate dinner by increasingly strange events. No matter how hard they try to enjoy their meal and the privileges money affords, everything from closed restaurants to terrorists conspire to thwart their pleasures... and soon it seems that the violence is even pervading their dreams. Although Buñuel made Discreet Charm... at the age of 72, it has a delightful ebullience and an effortless charm. 9 July, 1pm
Rosebush Pruning: Underneath the Catalonian sun, a rich white American family lives in hedonistic isolation, seeking love and validation through one another, their designer wardrobes and pop music. When an outsider infiltrates the family, buried tensions surface and blood ties are severed. An outrageous, biting satire on the absurdity of the patriarchal family, starring Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Jamie Bell, Lukas Gage, Elena Anaya, Tracy Letts, Elle Fanning and Pamela Anderson. From 10 July
OUR PICKS FROM THE CAMEO:
The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951): An alien lands and tells the people of Earth that they must live peacefully or be destroyed as a danger to other planets. 7 July, 3pm & 8 July, 6pm
The Holy Mountain: A Christlike figure wanders through bizarre, grotesque scenarios filled with religious and sacrilegious imagery. He meets a mystical guide who introduces him to seven wealthy and powerful people, each representing a planet in the Solar system. These seven, along with the protagonist, the guide and the guideâs assistant, divest themselves of their worldly goods and form a group of nine who will seek the Holy Mountain, in order to displace the gods who live there and become immortal. 9 July, 8.30pm
Dog-friendly screening: The Invite: Bring your pooch! Youâll be issued with a fleece blanket to cover the seat used by the dog or to use as a rug if the dog sits on the floor. During the screenings, we will provide bowls of water around the screen. We will leave lighting levels a little higher than usual during the screening and lower the volume of the soundtrack. Please be aware that we reduce capacity when offering âdog-friendlyâ screenings, so there may be fewer tickets than usual. We limit dogs to: one dog to one adult. For further information, see dog-friendly screening policy in our cinema. A couple invites the neighbours over for cocktails, igniting an evening full of unexpected twists and turns, revealing deeply repressed emotions and unexplored sexuality. 12 July, 11.15am
AROUND TOWN:
VCR TRASH: Magic Crystal and Godzilla vs Mothra: We are back with a double bill of Asian trash cinema projected live from VHS! Magic Crystal is what happens when a Hong Kong studio wants to rip off E.T. but lets Wong Jing write and direct it, making a martial arts fest that despite having a child protagonist and being clearly aimed at a young audience was rated 18 on cinema release because of all the kicking. Godzilla vs Mothra owes its existence to the popularity of the Indiana Jones films, which the first half pilfers liberally from, and to market research by Toho which showed that Mothra was more popular than King Ghidora among women. A new market was duly identified, and GvM (as the kids are all calling it) became the second highest-grossing film of 1993 in Japan, behind Jurassic Park. BANSHEE LABYRINTH / 7 July, 7.30pm
A Bigger Splash (2016): Luca Guadagnino directs Ralph Fiennes, Dakota Johnson and Tilda Swinton in this thrilling romantic drama. No ads or trailers before the screening. GRASSMARKET COMMUNITY PICTUREHOUSE / 8 July, 7pm
Atmosphere | Wings: Directed by William A. Wellman and winner of the first Academy Award for Best Picture, Wings (1927) is a silent coming-of-age film set during the First World War starring Clara Bow, Charles âBuddyâ Rogers, and Richard Arlen with Gary Cooper in a supporting role. Two young rivals in a small American town, are vying for the attentions of a local girl. The young men both enlist to become combat pilots. When they leave for training, one of them mistakenly believes she prefers him, but she actually prefers the other. The drama plays out across the skies. FREE. LAURISTON CASTLE / 11 July, 2.30pm
EVENTS:
Market & Distribute your Short Film - Webinar: Learn how to market, distribute and pitch your short film from festivals to streaming platforms with practical industry insights. Led by award-winning filmmaker and producer Yorgo Glynatsis (CEO of House of Glynatsis Productions ) whose short films have been distributed on Amazon Prime, Apple TV and other platforms, this workshop shares practical industry insights drawn from both low-budget and funded productions. This is an online workshop designed for filmmakers, producers, film students and creatives who want to better understand the marketing and distribution landscape for short films, followed by a Q&A. ONLINE / 6 July, 6pm
Film Club - Frownland (2007: The Edinburgh âLike A Book Group But With Filmsâ Group meets every other Thursday to chat films and TV! Itâs a brilliant group, come along! Watch the film in your own time and join us for a chat on the night. Bronsteinâs debut Frownland is a pitch-black character study of Keith Sontag (Dore Mann), a neurotic, manipulative, stridently unlovable New Yorker whose pitiless roommate aptly describes him, to his face, as âa burbling troll in his underwear.â BENNETTâS BAR / 9 July, 7.30pm
Fangs Out Film Club - Creep (2014): This month the Fangs Out Horror Film Club will be meeting to discuss Creep (2014) followed by a horror pub quiz!
Fangs Out is a monthly horror film club that meets to discuss our chosen film of the month followed by a horror pub quiz. This month we will be discussing Patrick Briceâs 2014 found footage film Creep, starring horror icon Mark Duplass. RAGING BULL PUB / 7 July, 6pm
GLASGOW
FILM SCREENINGS
OUR PICKS FROM GFT:
Birds of War + Q&A This screening will be followed by a Q&A with journalist Janay Boulos and Syrian activist /cameraman Abd Alkader Habak, hosted by journalist David Pratt. 6 July, 8pm
My Fatherâs Island: Vladimir de Fontenay makes a welcome returns after the 2017 GFF hit Mobile Homes with a beautifully shot and psychologically intense wilderness drama, adapted from an autobiographically-inspired story by David Vann. When British teenager Roy (Woody Norman, Câmon Câmon) agrees to take a year-long trip to a remote Norwegian island with his estranged dad Tom (Anatomy of A Fall breakout star Swann Arlaud) the long summer days seem to offer them the prospect of healing and grand adventure. But what begins as a bonding exercise becomes a fight for survival as winter, family history and emotions start to bite. Screening all week
Barbara Forever + Introduction: An archival documentary exploring the life of legendary lesbian filmmaker, Barbara Hammer. Brydie OâConnerâs debut feature is a tender tribute to Hammer and her dedication to queer filmmaking. Through Hammerâs own lens, Barbara Forever offers poetic insights into moments of connection, community and sensuality that defined Hammerâs life. As a chronological journey unfolds, beginning with the Hammerâs queer awakening, Barbara Forever pays homage to this pioneering scholar, activist and artist through archival footage of her life and work. Brydieâs film is as much about Hammerâs life as it is about the practice of queer filmmaking itself, and her refusal to hide behind her lens. This screening will include an introduction by Sapphic Cinema Club, and a recorded introduction by Barbara Forever director, Brydie OâConnor, for the filmâs Scottish premiere. 9 July, 8pm
Shoot the People: Shoot The People is a documentary capturing photographer and activist Misan Harrimanâs 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 Harrimanâs lens brings the worldâs activism to light, inspiring viewers to recognize their own power in shaping a more just society. From 10 July
AROUND TOWN
Agitations: 16mm Film Screening: Join us for an evening of live 16mm projections featuring work from a range of Glasgow-based students, artists and filmmakers. This screening marks the end of our analogue filmmaking workshop led by James with participants presenting films made during the programme alongside works by artists and filmmakers (soon to be announced). PYRAMID AT ANDERSON / 1 July, 8pm
MilkTea Community Screening of YELLOW ROSE with ESEA Creatives: Community screening of Diane Paragasâ YELLOW ROSE. BALIK BAYAN is a month-long reflection on Filipino stories, identity, and community. Weâre proud to open the programme with the UKâs first theatrical screenings of Diane Paragasâ acclaimed feature, YELLOW ROSE. YELLOW ROSE follows a Filipina teenager from a small Texas town as she pursues her dream of becoming a country music singer while facing an impossible choice between her family and the only home she has ever known. GLASGOW FILM THEATRE / 8 July, 5.45pm
Red-Carpet Premiere of âIf We Ever Make It to Somedayâ: Get ready for an exciting evening as we celebrate the premiere screening of If We Ever Make It to Someday. Join us for a night filled with unforgettable moments on the big screen, the opportunity to connect with contacts in the industry, and meeting the cast and crew behind the film. Donât miss your chance to be part of this red carpet event! Event includes a red carpet, food/drink, a live Q&A with the actors and director, poster signing, and dancing. THE BOARDWALK / 7 July, 2.30pm
An TĂr Ășd Thoir : Immigrants from Donegal to Glasgow share their stories: Screening of An TĂr Ășd Thoir (2009) by Conradh na Gaeilge GlaschĂș. Irish with English subtitles. An Irish language documentary (with English subtitles) that examines the experiences of the thousands of people who emigrated from Donegal to Glasgow throughout the twentieth century. After the film, there will an opportunity for discussion and we welcome you to share your own experiences, or those of family members, should you wish. THE DEEP END VENUE SPACE / 6 July, 12pm
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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
MONTROSE Time and Water - LandxSea Monthly presents Time and Water by Oscar-winner Sara Dosa. Renowned Icelandic poet and author Andri SnĂŠr Magnason is chasing something elusive. As the glacial ice of his homeland melts, he constructs a cinematic time capsule to hold onto this moment and send it to the future, before everything he loves slips away. MONTROSE PLAYHOUSE / 20 July, 7.30pm
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OPPORTUNITIES
JOBS / WORK OPPORTUNITIES COMING UP:
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 â 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 festivalâs growing talent development initiatives and strategic priorities. Salary: ÂŁ33,240 per annum; Contract Type: Fixed Term; Term: August 2026 â 26 March 2027. Apply by 15 July
Freelance Marketing Assistants - BEUnited: Be United is seeking Freelance Marketing Assistants to support the delivery of Be Unitedâs marketing, digital communications, and creative media output. Salary: ÂŁ13.45 per hour, 15 hours a week, from July 2026 â 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 ÂŁ35,000, 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 @ ÂŁ165 - ÂŁ180 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 ÂŁ120 per day. Work from 10 September, including the four festival days (22â25 October) in Folkestone. Apply by 29 July.
TRUSTEE: Rio Cinema, London (mostly REMOTE): The Rio Cinema is looking to strengthen its board with individuals who can bring their professional skills, strategic mindset, creative problem-solving and diverse networks to help it thrive in an ever-changing cultural and economic landscape. Commitment: c.6-8 board meetings a year (c. 2hrs) plus potential sub-committee meetings and annual board strategy day. Trustees should also be willing to undertake informal engagement with the charity, including providing advice on an ad hoc basis to the management team. Term: 3 years (renewable once). Apply by 10 July.
HippFest Marketing Officer - Salary: ÂŁ14,350 - ÂŁ18,975 (115 days @ ÂŁ130 - ÂŁ165 p/d). Term: 1 Sep 2026 â 31 Aug 2027. Place of Work: Remote working in Central Belt Scotland with the option to use Falkirk Council offices. HippFest is Scotlandâs first and only festival of silent film with live music, centred in and inspired by Scotlandâs 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 â 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 ÂŁ10,000 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 âŹ3,000 (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 GFF27âs Industry Focus, where participants will present their projects to an expert panel. Apply by 14 August
Documenting Dreams: Embodied Filmmaking Workshop: A four week online filmmaking course on the body and dreaming in experimental documentary - for women and LGBTQIA+ people. Sunday evenings in June/July. Sundays 6-8:30 pm BST, Online 21, 28 June, 5, 12, July run by IMPRINT Documentary Collective
Animation Academy: Animation Academy is an online course for 16 â 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
NEWS:
Film stories, productions, news, reports, industry insights, and other tidbits that have caught our attention this week!
Edinburgh International Film Festival unveils full 2026 programme
Edinburgh TV Festival 2026: call out for passes for production companies and writers
UK government launches review of National Lottery Good Cause support, including BFI funding
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