The 2025 Glasgow Film Festival Delivers Star-Studded Edition
The 2025 Glasgow Film Festival concluded with a bang, crowning Brian Durnin’s drama “Spilt Milk” as the recipient of the Audience Award, sponsored by Mubi. This star-studded 21st edition saw the likes of James McAvoy, Toni Collette, Tim Roth, Jessica Lange, and Ed Harris grace the event with their presence.
Celebrities from all over the world flocked to Scotland for this prestigious festival. Japanese musician and actress Koki, along with “Shogun” star Takehiro Hira, attended the world premiere of the Scottish survival thriller “Tornado.” Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill also made an appearance at the festival for the debut of the sporting documentary “Hill.” Toni Collette surprised fans as a special guest for the 30th-anniversary screening of her breakout film “Muriel’s Wedding.”
The Glasgow Film Festival, Scotland’s largest annual celebration of cinema, shone a spotlight on Austrian films this year. The festival showcased a variety of genres, from satirical takes on rent-a-friend agencies and the influence of billionaires to stories exploring generational poverty and a climate crisis mockumentary. The event wrapped up with the world premiere of Scottish documentary-maker Martyn Robertson’s “Make It to Munich,” capturing the story of Ethan Walker, a young footballer recovering from life-threatening injuries sustained in a tragic accident.
The Audience Award-winning film, “Spilt Milk,” is set in 1980s Dublin and follows 11-year-old Bobby as he embarks on a detective adventure to find his missing brother. The runner-up, Natja Brunckhorst’s German comedy “Two to One,” starring Sandra Hüller, also garnered acclaim at the festival.
This year’s festival marked the final edition under the leadership of departing Glasgow Film CEO and festival director Allison Gardner. Reflecting on her time with the festival, Gardner expressed gratitude for the support and friendships cultivated over her 21-year tenure.
The Glasgow Film Festival continues to be a beacon for film enthusiasts, showcasing diverse and captivating stories from around the world. As the curtains close on another successful edition, the legacy of this celebrated event lives on, inspiring audiences and filmmakers alike.