The Glasgow Film Festival (GFF) is an incredible event. It brings together brilliant films and a vibrant atmosphere. I had a fantastic time immersing myself in both old and new films on the big screen. Meeting old friends and making new ones added to the joy of the festival.
A Day Full of Surprises
One of the highlights of this year’s festival was a lovely surprise. After Emiliani Torrini's film, The Extraordinary Miss Flower, we enjoyed a free gig at Assai Records. The music was a feast for the senses, perfectly complementing the film experience.
An Unforgettable Experience at Muriel's Wedding
I attended one of the special events, and wow, Muriel's Wedding was amazing! It took place in Cottiers Theatre, an old church. They rolled out a red carpet down the aisle, adorned the seats with flowers, and even set up a glitter bar. Themed cocktails added to the festive atmosphere, and, of course, we dressed up for the occasion!
One of the most entertaining parts was the Abba Lip Sync Battle. Many of us bravely participated, and to our surprise, Toni Collette appeared, joining the GFF staff on stage for an impromptu dance! What an incredible surprise!
Star-Studded Q&A Sessions
Toni Collette was not the only star I encountered this year. The list of actors I saw at Q&A sessions was incredible. Notable names included Tim Roth, James McAvoy, George Mackay, Martin Compston, Damon Hill, Simon Lazenby, Jessica Lange, and Ed Harris.
The morning retrospective films had a Coming of Age theme. They were, without a doubt, the best I have seen in the 17 years I've attended the festival. Not a single bad film graced the lineup, with most landing on my top films list. Each morning, different team members shared their cinema memories, creating a delightful atmosphere.
Let’s not forget the Penguin making an appearance during Gregory's Girl or the production designer from This Is England giving us insider information about the filmmaking process. These little moments made the festival truly special.
The Emotional Conclusion
The festival concluded with a remarkable documentary titled Made It to Munich. This film followed young Ethan Walker, who cycled from Hampden to Munich for the Euros, carrying the Scotland team pennant. Ethan had overcome horrendous injuries after being hit by a car. His journey was made even more special by the presence of his surgeon, support team, and family, all proudly wearing kilts as they cycled to the GFT. It was truly emotional—there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
My Top Film Ratings
Here’s my list of films with my star ratings:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hill
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
Gregory's Girl
Four Mothers
Mustang
⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2
A Tree Grows In Brooklyn
Spilt Milk
Bob Trevino Likes It
Muriel's Wedding (ten million points for surprise Toni Collette)
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pather Panchali
Long Days Journey Into Night
On Falling
The Surfer
The Extraordinary Miss Flower
Fear
The Last King of Scotland
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
Peacock
Boyz N The Hood
This Is England
Sharp Corner
Lady Bird
One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest
⭐⭐⭐1/2
The War Game
Sunshine Follows Rain
Blackmailed
Kill The Jockey
The Man Who Finally Died
The End
The Craft
⭐⭐⭐
Tornado
O Brother Where Art Thou
Coyote Ugly
Raw
A Mother's Embrace
Went Up The Hill
The Return
⭐⭐
Harvest (walked out after an hour)
Loving Couples (walked out)
The Girls (wish I had walked out)
House of Ashes
The GFF experience was unforgettable, filled with surprises, legendary films, and incredible people. I can't wait for next year!
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