I believe the silver screen serves not only as a form of entertainment but also to educate and raise awareness of important topics and issues – so I was looking forward to the 2025 programme, which was packed full of exciting titles.
IFFG’s 2025 programme (Image: Newsquest Staff)
The International Film Festival Glasgow (IFFG) is now in its 12th year, and this year’s edition was held at The Grosvenor Picture Theatre and The Social Hub between November 6 and November 12.
Stepping into the iconic cinema, which is nestled in Ashton Lane, I could tell there was real excitement for opening night.
This was the third year in a row that the festival was held at The Grosvenor, and audiences were treated to a special screening of Blue Moon by critically acclaimed filmmaker Richard Linklater as the opener.
The movie follows songwriter Lorenz Hart (played by Ethan Hawke) as he reflects on himself on the opening night of Oklahoma!, a new musical by his former colleague Richard Rodgers (portrayed by Andrew Scott).
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It had its world premiere at the 75th Berlin International Film Festival in February this year and will be shown in UK cinemas from November 28.
I must admit I didn’t research the title before watching the film and was surprised to see that it was largely set at one location, Sardi’s restaurant in New York City. This worked really well.
Ethan Hawke, as Hart, had the audience laughing with his quick quips but also feeling quite sad as he told the story of ‘the state of his career’ at that time, just months before his death.
It is a heartbreaking tale and not one to be missed.
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I then headed back to Ashton Lane the following night to catch the showing of a documentary titled The Skids ReVolution.
Directed by Laura and Colin Graham, both of whom were in attendance, the film follows the iconic but short-lived Scottish punk band The Skids as they first came onto the scene in the 1970s.
It covers the band’s career from their teenage years starting out in Dunfermline through to their eventual split and their much-anticipated comeback in 2016.
Before stepping into the theatre that night, I didn’t know much, if anything, about The Skids, but I left with an understanding of how they would go on to influence huge acts, including U2.
The screening, which was thoroughly enjoyable, formed part of the Glasgow 850 years celebrations and was supported by Glasgow City Council.
It was then followed up with a live music performance in The Grosvenor Bar.
IIFG 2025 continued later in the week with its Reel Tasty event, a food and film experience which is now in its fourth year.
Audiences at the event were treated to a tasting menu featuring four dishes, which were designed to complement the movie, La Cocina by Alonso Ruizpalacios.
This year’s menu was put together by Glasgow-based El Jefe’s and included a welcome drink.
There were also several shorts competitions showcasing local talent, with the winners announced on November 16.
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The competitions were judged by Greek actress Tonia Sotiropoulou, producer Marianna Palka and filmmaker Alice Shone.
IIFG closed out for another year with a showing of Sentimental Values, the winner of the prestigious Cannes Grand Prix award.
This is a follow-up to the global phenomenon The Worst Person in the World and stars Stellan Skarsgård and Elle Fanning.
It was wonderful to attend IFFG 2025 and experience a film festival for the first time. Not only did I enjoy the films, but I also learned a lot.
I am already looking forward to seeing what will feature on next year’s programme.
