Latest news with #EdinburghInternationalFilmFestival
The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Top 10 Edinburgh Fest experiences from Chappell Roan to Ruxy Cantir
Festival Theatre, August 22-24 The Toxic Avenger Toxic Avenger (Image: unknown) The Edinburgh International Film Festival's Midnight Madness horror strand is already established as a fan favourite and this year's programme is packed with goodies. Ben Wheatley's new film will generate much noise – and some head-scratching – but it's Macon Blair's re-make of this tasteless 1984 low-budget splatter-fest that's catching my eye. Why? Three reasons. First: it's a world premiere. Second: Blair's previous films Blue Ruin and Green Room have been absolute gems. Third: I rewatched the original this week (though not on grainy VHS, which would have been more appropriate) and it was every bit as dumb, crass and offensive as I remember it. More so, actually. So I'm really keen to see what the American director and his starry cast – Peter Dinklage, Kevin Bacon, Elijah Wood and British comedian Julia Davis among them – are bringing to the table in this long-awaited re-boot. The Cameo, August 19-20 Make space The capital's established theatres, large and small, go gang-busters during the Fringe. Meanwhile the big production houses like Assembly co-opt other familiar areas such as George Square. But a real pleasure of [[Edinburgh]] in August is visiting the lesser-known venues. The Ukrainian Community Centre on Royal Terrace, for example, where you'll find John Hegley (and some Ukrainian folk dancing, of course). Or the 16th century Magdalen Chapel, tucked away behind an anonymous-looking door in the Cowgate. Blink and you'll miss it. Or just pick a venue number – unlucky 13? There is one: Venue 13, tucked away in the Harry Younger Hall behind the historic Canongate Church, and home in August to a series of plays about the climate emergency. Linder: Danger Came Smiling Artist Linder with her EAF commission (Image: unknown) For me, one of the highlights of last summer's massive National Galleries of Scotland show Women in Revolt! Art And Activism In The UK 1970-1990 was coming across the work of Linder Sterling, once the frontwoman with avant-punk band Lindus but also an acclaimed artist. If you've seen the iconic cover of the Buzzcocks' seminal (sorry) 1977 single Orgasm Addict, you've seen her work and if you've heard The Smiths track Cemetery Gates, then know it's Linder that Morrissey is strolling the graves with and who he later immortalised in song. Linder is back in [[Edinburgh]] this summer with a retrospective show – her first in Scotland – at Inverleith House in the Royal Botanic Garden. It opened in late May and while I have poked my head in briefly I'm looking forward to giving the show my undivided attention at some point during this festival season. The show is part of this year's [[Edinburgh]] [[Art]] Festival (EAF) and includes a special EAF commission. Oh, and it's free admission, so there's no excuse for not visiting. Inverleith House (until October 19) The Futures Institute For my money, the jury's still out on how good a fit the swanky Futures Institute is for the Edinburgh International Book Festival, though admittedly it's a great deal better than the previous home along the road at Edinburgh Art College. No matter. It's still a splendid venue and in common with many Edinburghers it has a special resonance for me because the building once housed the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, which is where I was born. Well, not exactly – that happy event occurred in the 1930s Simpson Memorial Maternity Pavilion, just behind the extant main building, but it was demolished when the equally swanky Quartermile development was built so I lay claim to the Futures Institute instead. It's open to the public all year round, but the perfect time to visit is with the book festival is in full swing in the main auditoriums and on the expansive green space through the back. Chappell Roan Chappell Roan (Image: Victor Boyko, Getty Images for Valentino) The Champagne Supernova boys roll into Edinburgh for three shows beginning on August 8 but it's the Red Wine Supernova gal I want to see – triple Brit Award winner Chappell Roan, whose Good Luck, Babe single topped many critics' Best Of 2024 lists and also the author of that ear-wormy anthem to queer joy, Pink Pony Club. Not my world in any sense, really, but there's something infectious about Roan's shtick and her ballsy approach to music-making, performance and presentation. On top of that, we've had a pleasing surfeit of US pop queens visiting Scotland recently – Billie Eilish and Lana Del Rey both played last month and Lorde lands in November – so it's only appropriate that the Midwest Princess gets a shout out. Not strictly a festival show, Roan is doing two nights as part of a Summer Sessions programme which also includes an appearance by Sam Fender. August 26-27, Royal Highland Showgrounds Pickled Republic I recently started pickling my own vegetables – I'll spare you the whys and wherefores – so how could my eye not be drawn to Pickled Republic, a one woman cabaret show by Moldovan theatre-maker Ruxandra Cantir which features an array of, yup, pickled vegetable characters? There's mention in the publicity of David Lynch (though what purveyor of Surreal theatre doesn't cite him as a reference these days?) but also of the great Franco-Romanian Absurdist Eugène Ionesco, which is a bigger draw for me. The icing on the cake – or maybe the star ingredient in the pickling solution – is that Pickled Republic is presented as part of the 16-strong Made In Scotland showcase, part funded by Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government's Festivals Expo Fund and a great way to see the best current work by Scottish or Scotland-based artists. Summerhall, July 31-August 25 Midnights No, not the Taylor Swift album, I mean the witching hour itself. They say New York is the city that never sleeps but what they don't say (but should) is that Edinburgh is the city which generally likes to be sipping cocoa in its pyjamas when the numbers climb towards twelve. That's not true in August, of course, and one of the greatest pleasure of the Fringe is taking in a show around or over midnight. Partly it's because that's often where you'll find the edgy stuff, but more than that it's because everything takes on a different hue in the wee hours. Done right, art lands differently. It sparks associations and ideas it probably wouldn't in a lunchtime slot, say. And for the audience members, rolling out at 1AM and heading for a bar (the Pleasance Courtyard, say, which is open until 3AM) there can be a powerful sense of an intense experience shared. My advice: sleep in, and check out the late, late shows. RF Kuang R F Kuang (Image: Mike Styer) This year's Edinburgh International Book Festival isn't short of heavy-hitters – take your pick from Hanif Kureishi, Robert Macfarlane, Eleanor Catton, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Isabel Allende etc. – but I'm most intrigued to see 29-year-old American-Chinese fantasy sensation RF Kuang. She arrives in Edinburgh dripping awards, accolades and university degrees (Georgetown, Oxford, Cambridge, Yale). New novel Katabasis is out on August 26 and sees a graduate student studying something called analytic magick travel to hell for reasons of academic research. As you do. Kuang's Poppy War trilogy, set in an alternate China, established her as a fantasy favourite before break-out hits Babel (set in an alternative Oxford) and Yellowface (a contemporary satire of the US publishing industry) pushed her into the best-seller lists. Literary super-stardom doesn't seem too far out of her reach now. Catch her while you can. McEwan Hall, August 24 The political weather The actual weather in Edinburgh during the festival can be dreadful. There's a bevvy of bus stops I associate with rain storms and thinking about them I realise they're all ones I've hunkered in after leaving festival venues. Equally predictable is the political weather – or it has been for the past few years when the appropriate meteorological term would probably be 'heavy'. We've had the Baillie Gifford saga, of course, and the stushie over Drag Queen Story Hour, plus endless other debates about trans rights, cancel culture and environmentalism. It's a shame when too much noise detracts from the work being presented in the city, but at the same time politics is an inevitable – in fact necessary – part of making art. I expect this year's event to be just as shouty as previous ones, with an increased focus on who's funding who, where their money is coming from – and where it's going. I'll have one eye on the sky and the other on the news feeds and social media chatter. To purchase tickets for the Fringe, please click here
STV News
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- STV News
Men in Love: Irvine Welsh releases new Trainspotting sequel
Irvine Welsh has released a direct sequel to Trainspotting, more than 30 years after the cult novel's publication. Men in Love, released on Thursday, sees the return of beloved characters Renton, Sick Boy, Spud, and Begbie. Irvine's fifth Trainspotting spin-off displaces 2002's Porno as the original's most direct sequel, and follows the misfit Leith crew as they attempt to replace drug addiction with 'love and romance' while they experience the heyday of rave culture in the late 80s and early 90s. The original novel quickly became a cult classic, and made a hugely successful transition from page to screen thanks to director Danny Boyle and up-and-coming actor Ewan McGregor, with a sequel released in 2017 reuniting most of the original cast. Men in Love will open in the late 80s, 'at the end of punk and just before acid house'. Getty Images The book's description reads: 'It is the late 1980s, the closing years of Thatcher's Britain. For the Trainspotting crew, a new era is about to begin – a time for hope, for love, for raving. 'Leaving heroin behind and separated after a drug deal gone wrong, Renton, Sick Boy, Spud and Begbie each want to feel alive. They fill their days with sex and romance and trying to get ahead; they follow the call of the dance floor, with its promise of joy and redemption. 'Sick Boy starts an intense relationship with Amanda, his 'princess' – rich, connected, everything that he is not. When the pair set a date for their wedding, Sick Boy sees a chance for his generation to take control at last. But as the 1990s dawn, will finding love be the answer to the group's dreams or just another doomed quest? 'Irvine Welsh's sequel to his iconic bestseller Trainspotting tells a story of riotous adventures, wild new passions, and young men determined to get the most out of life.' The release comes ahead of a documentary of Welsh's life, which will close the Edinburgh International Film Festival on August 20. Reality Is Not Enough will follow the best-selling author at a 'crossroads' in life where he is 'acutely aware of his mortality and accepting that his hedonistic days are drawing to a close'. It is also said to explore the 'inner and outer life' of the writer, who was propelled to fame with his debut novel focusing on heroin addicts in Leith in 1993. From director Paul Sng, the documentary, which was previously titled I Am Irvine Welsh, has been described as a 'captivating piece of autobiographical filmmaking'. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Time of India
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Late Michael Madsen delivered his final performance in 'Concessions', played role of former stuntman
The late actor Michael Madsen delivered one of his final performances in 'Concessions', a comedy drama about the closing night of a movie theatre, reported Variety. The director, 'Mas Bouzidi' calls the film a tribute to Madsen. As per an unreleased clip of the movie, obtained by Variety, showcases Madsen as Rex Fuel, a former stuntman attempting to charm his way into a free ticket to see his old movie and relive his glory days at the Royal Alamo Cinema. The film is set to premiere at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August. The feature showcases Madsen as Rex Fuel, a former stuntman Michael Madsen's Cause Of Death Revealed: Doctor Reveals Fatal Truth "Working with Michael Madsen was one of the greatest privileges of making 'Concessions,'" said Bouzidi, director of the upcoming comedy drama 'Concession'. "He was the last of his kind, owning the camera and commanding the audience with nothing but a squint and a sly grin. I still remember the joy I'd get from watching him through the eyepiece. The way he walked across the frame to toss a bag of popcorn in the trash was more interesting than what 99% of other actors would have ever come up with," added Bouzidi as quoted by Variety. According to the outlet, the film marks the feature directorial debut of 23-year-old Bouzidi, who filmed and edited the entire movie at age 22. Drawing from his seven years working in New York theaters, Bouzidi crafted an ensemble piece about employees, outcasts, and oddballs crossing paths during the cinema's final night. 'Concessions' was shot on 16mm film and will be presented on a 35mm print at Edinburgh. The cast includes Steven Ogg, Josh Hamilton, Lana Rockwell, Ivory Aquino, Rob Riordan, and Jonathan Lorenzo Price. Actor Michael Madsen, who is known for his roles in Quentin Tarantino films including 'Kill Bill: Vol. 1 & 2' and 'Reservoir Dogs', passed away on July 3 at the age of 67, reported Variety. As per the outlet, Madsen was found unresponsive in his Malibu home, according to his representative, who said the cause appeared to be a cardiac arrest.
Daily Mail
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Brenda Blethyn is unrecognisable in new thriller Dragonfly - as she ditches Vera's signature red hair and trenchcoat for VERY different look
Brenda Blethyn looked almost unrecognisable in the upcoming movie, Dragonfly, which is set to be shown at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August. In the new movie, the actress, 79, looks worlds away from her iconic Vera role as she ditched the character's signature red hairdo and trenchcoat for short grey locks and a more laidback fit. The drama tells the story of a woman named Colleen (Andrea Riseborough) who takes over the care for her elderly neighbour Elise (Brenda). She believes the professionals aren't doing a good enough job, but could it be that Colleen has a hidden agenda? Or are those around them judging her without knowing the facts? The synopsis for Dragonfly reads: 'Disgusted with the state of care that her elderly neighbor Elsie is receiving, Colleen offers to help for free. 'Over tea and through trying moments, the pair become trusted confidants despite their differences. 'But Colleen's intentions may not be exactly as they seem. As suspicions grow, a shocking act triggers a violent chain reaction that threatens to irreparably alter the lives of both women.' The upcoming movie also stars Jason Watkins as John, Sandra Huggett as Mary, and Lolly Jones as Jane. Following positive reviews from critics at Tribeca, the thriller already boasts an impressive 92% approval rating. Since stepping down from her role as DCI Vera Stanhope, the star has taken on several exciting TV projects, including the upcoming historical comedy, Fools. The actress's latest venture, which was directed by Paul Andrew Williams, was described by The Guardian as a 'stark, fierce and wonderfully acted film'. The Film Stage shared: 'Williams and his brilliant cast create a film that is equal-parts tender and shocking, turning horror tropes on their head.' Fans were left feeling devastated when ITV announced last year that the popular detective drama would end in 2025, after a successful 14-year run (pictured Kenneth Colley, Rebecca Benson, Matilda Ziegler, Brenda, and David in 2013) Meanwhile, NYC Movie Guru described Brenda's performance as worthy of an award. They said: 'What begins as a slow-burning and tender drama with shades of Mike Leigh turns into a dark and gripping Hitchcockian thriller. 'Brenda Blethyn and Andrea Riseborough give powerful and Oscar-worthy performances that ground the film in raw authenticity.' Her latest role comes nearly a year after Brenda was seen in Newcastle, filming her final scenes for Vera. Fans were left feeling devastated when ITV announced last year that the popular detective drama would end in 2025, after a successful 14-year run. Dragonfly will be shown at the Edinburgh International Film Festival in August.
The National
09-07-2025
- Politics
- The National
Scots Language Centre plunged into crisis as board members resign
Documents seen by The National reveal a breakdown in governance that has left the charity effectively non-functional, just months before its accounts are due to be filed and its core Scottish Government funding reviewed. The Scots Language Centre was founded by the late councillor John Law and for many years was based at the AK Bell Library in Perth. It is now mainly an online organisation, promoting Scots and providing information about the language to a variety of users and public bodies. Concerns have been raised with both OSCR (Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator) and the Scottish Government about potential misappropriation of funds, and the legality of decisions made during an allegedly unauthorised board meeting held in March. READ MORE: Scottish depot trying to get back pallets used in huge loyalist bonfire Treasurer Susan Grant wrote in a formal letter to the Government: 'The board were deliberately misled and given false information ... This led to the board approving a series of payments to all individuals working for the centre." That version of events is disputed by centre director, Michael Dempster. The allegations relate to payments made following a March 24 board meeting that its treasurer was reportedly not invited to. According to multiple sources, decisions made at that meeting – including salary payments and changes to financial operations – were rushed through without due oversight or qualification. In the weeks that followed, Grant attempted repeatedly to raise concerns with the centre's chair and other board members. Michael Dempster was Scots Scriever from 2018–2020 A formal report submitted to the board on May 19 outlined concerns over a number of transactions. Bold and two other board members resigned immediately after receiving the report, leaving three other members. Two have also since resigned, leaving Grant as the sole trustee of the charity. She has recused herself to maintain impartiality during the investigation. With no functioning board, the centre does not comply with regulations governing charities and is effectively out of action. An email from the Scottish Government's Gaelic and Scots Division, seen by The National, advises Grant to report the matter directly to OSCR and to consider contacting Police Scotland. It confirms that until governance issues are resolved, future grant payments – including a key October instalment – may not be released. READ MORE: Edinburgh International Film Festival 'created in London', critic says 'We are very sorry to hear of these difficulties,' the email states. 'The most urgent step for you to take is to contact OSCR.' Staff at the centre have expressed shock at the government's response, particularly since Holyrood recently passed its Languages Act. Staff have said they expected a more 'interventionist approach' given that the centre is the main Government-funded body delivering on the SNP's manifesto commitments on Scots. One source said: 'The civil service attitude seems to be, 'go away and don't bother us', This is dismaying after so many years of working closely with the Government. 'If the centre is unable to pay for its website, the information and resources contained in it could be lost as early as August. "We are shocked at how unbothered the civil servants appear to be about this.' The Scottish Government declined to comment, pointing to the OSCR. In a lengthy email to staff, Dempster describes the treasurer's correspondence as 'incomplete and incorrect' and accuses Grant of refusing to engage constructively. 'Due to the governance issues, the inability for the charity to remit invoices, and other issues, I am finding lawyers unwilling to engage with the matters. I will persevere,' he wrote. He also suggests that the allegations are being 'fully investigated' by OSCR, should not be treated as fact, and disputed any wrongdoing. Staff remain in limbo. According to one, who asked not to be named, communications have dried up and day-to-day work is no longer being published on the centre's website – reportedly because editorial access remains with Dempster. It is understood staff have more than 15 articles written by staff "remain unpublished'. READ MORE: Bòrd na Gàidhlig announces funding for 27 Gaelic officers as scheme reopens Grant told the Government: 'The centre is not operating effectively. No communication is taking place and staff members are concerned.' Dempster had told staff: 'I am unsure if we can be laid off until we can work again, as there is both work to be done and … workers and employees would be paid whilst they are laid off.' There are now fears the charity's annual accounts – as things stand – will not be signed off due to the ongoing row. An OSCR spokesperson said: "OSCR has received concerns about the charity and is engaging with those involved to understand the issues raised. "Any potential criminal matters fall outside OSCR's remit and would be for Police Scotland to consider." Dempster and Grant have been contacted for comment.
