top of page
Home
Transgressive North presents
the folk film gathering
The world’s first annual festival
of folk cinema
in association with
edinburgh filmhouse
Curated by Transgressive North, the Folk Film Gathering is the world’s first folk film festival, screening films that celebrate the lived experiences of communities worldwide. Each annual edition explores the relationships between cinema and other traditional arts (such as oral storytelling and folk song), discovering what a folk cinema has been at moments throughout world film history, and how it may look in the future.
In 2022 our screenings and events take place at EDINBURGH FILMHOUSE and the SCOTTISH STORYTELLING CENTRE
TICKETS:
Standard (15+) £10, Concession £8,
All Day Sunday Tickets £5
Concs: students; 16-25; income support; disability; over-65s
All Day Sunday excludes select screenings.
ONLINE SCREENINGS / EVENTS
£ Pay what you can (more info soon)
£ Pay what you can
2022 programme
Folk Film Gathering 2022
click to view poster
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Mairi Mhor
Friday 17th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
Mike Alexander | Scotland |
1994 | 63 minutes | PG |
English and Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
Written by John McGrath, Mairi Mhor is a powerful tribute to the Isle of Skye’s 19th century warrior poet, Mary McPherson, Big Mary of the Songs. Shot on Skye and featuring the unmistakeable voice of Catriona-Anna Nic a’ Phi (Catherine-Ann MacPhee), the film documents Mairi Mhor’s passionate resistance to the displacement of Scottish communities during the Highland Clearances through songs that remain resonant to this day.
The film will be introduced by a mini-concert of Skye songs from Deirdre Graham.
Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
This screening is FREE! Tickets are available from Edinburgh Filmhouse on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mike Alexander | Scotland |
1994 | 63 minutes | PG |
English and Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
Written by John McGrath, Mairi Mhor is a powerful tribute to the Isle of Skye’s 19th century warrior poet, Mary McPherson, Big Mary of the Songs. Shot on Skye and featuring the unmistakeable voice of Catriona-Anna Nic a’ Phi (Catherine-Ann MacPhee), the film documents Mairi Mhor’s passionate resistance to the displacement of Scottish communities during the Highland Clearances through songs that remain resonant to this day.
The film will be introduced by a mini-concert of Skye songs from Deirdre Graham.
Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
This screening is FREE! Tickets are available from Edinburgh Filmhouse on a first-come, first-served basis.
Gerda Stevenson
Saturday 18th June | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
The Films of Gerda Stevenson
An Ìobairt / The Sacrifice
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 1996 | 25 min | 12A | Gaelic with English subtitles
The Storm Watchers
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Join us for an evening celebrating the films of one of Scotland’s most distinctive filmmakers, Gerda Stevenson. In An Ìobairt, dormant echoes of the past within the Scottish landscape re-emerge to haunt the present, whilst The Storm Watchers (an innovative adaptation of George Mackay Brown’s play, shot during lockdown) presents the voices and perspectives of a series of women waiting upon the shore for their seafaring husbands to return.
The films will be introduced with a mini-concert of songs Margaret Bennett (who also features in An Ìobairt) and will be followed by a Q&A with Gerda Stevenson. Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
The Films of Gerda Stevenson
An Ìobairt / The Sacrifice
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 1996 | 25 min | 12A | Gaelic with English subtitles
The Storm Watchers
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Join us for an evening celebrating the films of one of Scotland’s most distinctive filmmakers, Gerda Stevenson. In An Ìobairt, dormant echoes of the past within the Scottish landscape re-emerge to haunt the present, whilst The Storm Watchers (an innovative adaptation of George Mackay Brown’s play, shot during lockdown) presents the voices and perspectives of a series of women waiting upon the shore for their seafaring husbands to return.
The films will be introduced with a mini-concert of songs Margaret Bennett (who also features in An Ìobairt) and will be followed by a Q&A with Gerda Stevenson. Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
Icarus (After Amelia)
Sunday 19th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
Margaret Salmon | Scotland | 2021 | 58 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Filmed during subsequent Covid lockdowns in and around Govan, Icarus (after Amelia) is an exquisitely observed documentary exploring the often invisible work undertaken by women in Scottish communities. Beautifully captured on 35mm colour film, and drawing upon a diverse chorus of experiences, Salmon’s film is both a thoughtful investigation of female labour, and a tribute to the role played by women across Glasgow during the pandemic.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Shea Martin and Jessie Moroney and will be followed by a Q&A with Margaret Salmon.
Margaret Salmon | Scotland | 2021 | 58 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Filmed during subsequent Covid lockdowns in and around Govan, Icarus (after Amelia) is an exquisitely observed documentary exploring the often invisible work undertaken by women in Scottish communities. Beautifully captured on 35mm colour film, and drawing upon a diverse chorus of experiences, Salmon’s film is both a thoughtful investigation of female labour, and a tribute to the role played by women across Glasgow during the pandemic.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Shea Martin and Jessie Moroney and will be followed by a Q&A with Margaret Salmon.
Iorram (Boat Song)
Monday 20th June | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
Alastair Cole | Scotland | 2021 | 96min | PG | Documentary | Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
The first theatrical documentary shot entirely in Scottish Gaelic, Iorram is a lyrical portrait of the experiences of Hebridean fishing communities. Featuring a diverse variety of voices past and present, the film weaves a rich tapestry of folklore, oral history and community memories of a life lived in conversation with the sea, set in counterpoint with the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Alastair Cole | Scotland | 2021 | 96min | PG | Documentary | Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
The first theatrical documentary shot entirely in Scottish Gaelic, Iorram is a lyrical portrait of the experiences of Hebridean fishing communities. Featuring a diverse variety of voices past and present, the film weaves a rich tapestry of folklore, oral history and community memories of a life lived in conversation with the sea, set in counterpoint with the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Vai
Tuesday 21st June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 20:45
Marina Alofagia McCartney | Amberley Jo Aumua | Becs Arahanga | Matasila Freshwater | Dianna Fuemana | Míria George | 'Ofa-Ki-Levuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki | Nicole Whippy | Sharon Whippy | Aotearoa New Zealand | 2019 | 90 min | 12A
A portmanteau film by nine female Pacific filmmakers, filmed across seven Pacific countries, Vai is a unique and innovative film that draws upon diverse perspectives to tell the story of one woman across nine different days in her life. Played by a series of different actors, and shaped by a variety of distinct directorial voices, Vai captures the multifaceted experience of being a Pacific Island woman whilst maintaining a dexterous continuity of style and mood.
Marina Alofagia McCartney | Amberley Jo Aumua | Becs Arahanga | Matasila Freshwater | Dianna Fuemana | Míria George | 'Ofa-Ki-Levuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki | Nicole Whippy | Sharon Whippy | Aotearoa New Zealand | 2019 | 90 min | 12A
A portmanteau film by nine female Pacific filmmakers, filmed across seven Pacific countries, Vai is a unique and innovative film that draws upon diverse perspectives to tell the story of one woman across nine different days in her life. Played by a series of different actors, and shaped by a variety of distinct directorial voices, Vai captures the multifaceted experience of being a Pacific Island woman whilst maintaining a dexterous continuity of style and mood.
From Us to Me
Wednesday 22nd June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 17:50
Amber Collective | England | 2016 | 87 min | 12A | Documentary | German with English subtitles
In 1987 the Amber Collective were the only British film crew allowed into the GDR, to
document the lives of a fishing co-operative and a Brigade of Women Crane Drivers in Rostock, East Germany. 36 years later, Amber returned to track down the individuals they had first met in 1987 to find out how their lives had changed in the years since. A unique, powerful documentary that troubles certain assumptions about the fall of the Berlin wall, From Us to Me explores some of the many stories of ‘Die Wende’ (the turn), of the changes experienced by ordinary people during the collapse of the GDR. Asking what was gained and what was lost?
The film will be introduced with a short set of songs bridging Scotland and Germany from Steve Byrne, and will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
Amber Collective | England | 2016 | 87 min | 12A | Documentary | German with English subtitles
In 1987 the Amber Collective were the only British film crew allowed into the GDR, to
document the lives of a fishing co-operative and a Brigade of Women Crane Drivers in Rostock, East Germany. 36 years later, Amber returned to track down the individuals they had first met in 1987 to find out how their lives had changed in the years since. A unique, powerful documentary that troubles certain assumptions about the fall of the Berlin wall, From Us to Me explores some of the many stories of ‘Die Wende’ (the turn), of the changes experienced by ordinary people during the collapse of the GDR. Asking what was gained and what was lost?
The film will be introduced with a short set of songs bridging Scotland and Germany from Steve Byrne, and will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
Film Ceilidh: Selkie Stories
Thursday 23rd June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
A Selkie Story
George Macpherson | Scotland | 2022 | 13 min | 12A | English
Mara: The Seal Wife
Uisdean Murray | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Seals’kin
Hanna Tuulikki | Scotland | 2022 | 20 min | 12A
Join us for a unique event hosted by the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Donald Smith exploring Scotland’s rich folklore of the seal people - selkies - and some of the different ways in which filmmakers have brought selkie tales to the big screen. The event will include a filmed traditional selkie story from the highland sennachie George Macpherson, an achingly romantic new interpretation of Hebridean selkie tales in Mara: the Seal Wife, and the Scottish premiere of Hanna Tuuliki’s mesmerising new film Seals’kin.
The films will be introduced with live selkie tales from Donald Smith.
A Selkie Story
George Macpherson | Scotland | 2022 | 13 min | 12A | English
Mara: The Seal Wife
Uisdean Murray | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Seals’kin
Hanna Tuulikki | Scotland | 2022 | 20 min | 12A
Join us for a unique event hosted by the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Donald Smith exploring Scotland’s rich folklore of the seal people - selkies - and some of the different ways in which filmmakers have brought selkie tales to the big screen. The event will include a filmed traditional selkie story from the highland sennachie George Macpherson, an achingly romantic new interpretation of Hebridean selkie tales in Mara: the Seal Wife, and the Scottish premiere of Hanna Tuuliki’s mesmerising new film Seals’kin.
The films will be introduced with live selkie tales from Donald Smith.
Songs of the Open Road
Friday 24th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
Pat Collins | Ireland | 2022 | 50 minutes | 12A | Documentary | English
At the age of 10, Thomas McCarthy left County Offaly in Ireland and moved to London to live
with his siblings and mother in a halting site under the A40, the Westway, in West London, which members of the Traveller community still inhabit. Today he is one of Ireland’s most significant singers and the keeper of more than 1200 of Ireland’s oldest songs. Pat Collins lyrical, poignant documentary explores Thomas’ life and the deep resonance his songs continue to hold.
This film will be introduced with a mini-concert from the Scots traveller singer-storyteller, Jess Smith.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Pat Collins | Ireland | 2022 | 50 minutes | 12A | Documentary | English
At the age of 10, Thomas McCarthy left County Offaly in Ireland and moved to London to live
with his siblings and mother in a halting site under the A40, the Westway, in West London, which members of the Traveller community still inhabit. Today he is one of Ireland’s most significant singers and the keeper of more than 1200 of Ireland’s oldest songs. Pat Collins lyrical, poignant documentary explores Thomas’ life and the deep resonance his songs continue to hold.
This film will be introduced with a mini-concert from the Scots traveller singer-storyteller, Jess Smith.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Dark Horse on the Wind
Saturday 25th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 17:10
Myles O’Reilly | Ireland | 2022 | 105 min | 12A | Documentary | English
A larger-than-life figure on the Irish folk scene, Dark Horse on the Wind celebrates the life and songs of ballad singer Liam Weldon. Featuring contributions from young musicians such as Lankum, Lisa O’Neill and many more, Myles O’Reilly’s film celebrates a legendary character that Ireland almost forgot, and the vast footprint his songs and words have left behind in the
consciousness of the Irish diaspora.
The film will be introduced with a mini-concert from Irish musician Cathal McConnell (Boys
Of The Lough) and followed by a discussion led by Cathal about his memories of Liam Weldon.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Myles O’Reilly | Ireland | 2022 | 105 min | 12A | Documentary | English
A larger-than-life figure on the Irish folk scene, Dark Horse on the Wind celebrates the life and songs of ballad singer Liam Weldon. Featuring contributions from young musicians such as Lankum, Lisa O’Neill and many more, Myles O’Reilly’s film celebrates a legendary character that Ireland almost forgot, and the vast footprint his songs and words have left behind in the
consciousness of the Irish diaspora.
The film will be introduced with a mini-concert from Irish musician Cathal McConnell (Boys
Of The Lough) and followed by a discussion led by Cathal about his memories of Liam Weldon.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Film Ceilidh: Who Owns the Land?
Sunday 26th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 15:00
The Glen is Ours
Henry Cass | Scotland | 1946 | 30 min | U | English
Gigha: Buying Our Island
Emma Davie | Scotland | 2003 | 60 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Join us for a special event of music, film and discussion exploring the ongoing question of
land rights in Scotland. In the drama The Glen is Ours, a returning soldier leads his community to oppose the sale of the Scottish glen in which they live, whereas the documentary Gigha: Buying Our Island, filmed in the early 00's follows a year in the lives of the Gigha community as they experience the highs, lows and responsibilities of owning their own island home.
The films will be introduced with a short set of live music from Adam Sutherland and followed by an audience discussion on land reform in Scotland, led by a panel of speakers from Bella Caledonia, hosted by Mike Small.
The Glen is Ours
Henry Cass | Scotland | 1946 | 30 min | U | English
Gigha: Buying Our Island
Emma Davie | Scotland | 2003 | 60 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Join us for a special event of music, film and discussion exploring the ongoing question of
land rights in Scotland. In the drama The Glen is Ours, a returning soldier leads his community to oppose the sale of the Scottish glen in which they live, whereas the documentary Gigha: Buying Our Island, filmed in the early 00's follows a year in the lives of the Gigha community as they experience the highs, lows and responsibilities of owning their own island home.
The films will be introduced with a short set of live music from Adam Sutherland and followed by an audience discussion on land reform in Scotland, led by a panel of speakers from Bella Caledonia, hosted by Mike Small.
Films of Action: Coalfield Communities in Lockdown
Wednesday 29th June 2022 | Scottish Storytelling Centre | 17:00
Various Community Filmmakers | Scotland | 2020-22 | 75
Minutes | N/C | Documentary | English with descriptive subtitles
When the pandemic hit in March 2020, it highlighted the inequalities that remain long after the mines closed in Scotland’s coalfields. It also demonstrated how resilient coalfield communities are in finding solutions to their own challenges, quickly self-organising to support residents who are vulnerable or in need; from sharing the responsibility of food provision to collectively writing songs of activism.
Films of Action is a community filmmaking project founded upon the belief that Scotland’s former coalmining areas – in which 10 per cent of the population live – have many inspiring stories to tell. Filmmakers Anne Milne and Shona Thomson worked with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Regional Screen Scotland to share big screen stories of lockdown told in people’s own voices. Come along to watch a selection and meet the real on-screen stars, followed by an open discussion on the action needed to support thriving communities.
Various Community Filmmakers | Scotland | 2020-22 | 75
Minutes | N/C | Documentary | English with descriptive subtitles
When the pandemic hit in March 2020, it highlighted the inequalities that remain long after the mines closed in Scotland’s coalfields. It also demonstrated how resilient coalfield communities are in finding solutions to their own challenges, quickly self-organising to support residents who are vulnerable or in need; from sharing the responsibility of food provision to collectively writing songs of activism.
Films of Action is a community filmmaking project founded upon the belief that Scotland’s former coalmining areas – in which 10 per cent of the population live – have many inspiring stories to tell. Filmmakers Anne Milne and Shona Thomson worked with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Regional Screen Scotland to share big screen stories of lockdown told in people’s own voices. Come along to watch a selection and meet the real on-screen stars, followed by an open discussion on the action needed to support thriving communities.
The Sang's the Thing
Friday 1st July 2022 | Scottish Storytelling Centre | 17:00
Doc Rowe | England | 2020
Join us for a rare opportunity to watch Doc Rowe’s newly-edited documentary collecting performances of some of Scotland’s most notable singers, including Lizzie Higgins, Ray Fisher, Jane Turriff, the Stewarts of Blair, Willie Scott, Hamish Henderson, Tam Reid,
and Dave & Betty Campbell. Drawn from Doc’s considerable archive of recordings taken over the past 40 years, The Sang’s The Thing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Scottish folk revival.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Jimmy Hutchison.
Doc Rowe | England | 2020
Join us for a rare opportunity to watch Doc Rowe’s newly-edited documentary collecting performances of some of Scotland’s most notable singers, including Lizzie Higgins, Ray Fisher, Jane Turriff, the Stewarts of Blair, Willie Scott, Hamish Henderson, Tam Reid,
and Dave & Betty Campbell. Drawn from Doc’s considerable archive of recordings taken over the past 40 years, The Sang’s The Thing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Scottish folk revival.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Jimmy Hutchison.
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 1
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 2
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 3
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Folk Film Gathering 2022
click to view poster
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Mairi Mhor
Friday 17th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
Mike Alexander | Scotland |
1994 | 63 minutes | PG |
English and Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
Written by John McGrath, Mairi Mhor is a powerful tribute to the Isle of Skye’s 19th century warrior poet, Mary McPherson, Big Mary of the Songs. Shot on Skye and featuring the unmistakeable voice of Catriona-Anna Nic a’ Phi (Catherine-Ann MacPhee), the film documents Mairi Mhor’s passionate resistance to the displacement of Scottish communities during the Highland Clearances through songs that remain resonant to this day.
The film will be introduced by a mini-concert of Skye songs from Deirdre Graham.
Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
This screening is FREE! Tickets are available from Edinburgh Filmhouse on a first-come, first-served basis.
Mike Alexander | Scotland |
1994 | 63 minutes | PG |
English and Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
Written by John McGrath, Mairi Mhor is a powerful tribute to the Isle of Skye’s 19th century warrior poet, Mary McPherson, Big Mary of the Songs. Shot on Skye and featuring the unmistakeable voice of Catriona-Anna Nic a’ Phi (Catherine-Ann MacPhee), the film documents Mairi Mhor’s passionate resistance to the displacement of Scottish communities during the Highland Clearances through songs that remain resonant to this day.
The film will be introduced by a mini-concert of Skye songs from Deirdre Graham.
Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
This screening is FREE! Tickets are available from Edinburgh Filmhouse on a first-come, first-served basis.
Gerda Stevenson
Saturday 18th June | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
The Films of Gerda Stevenson
An Ìobairt / The Sacrifice
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 1996 | 25 min | 12A | Gaelic with English subtitles
The Storm Watchers
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Join us for an evening celebrating the films of one of Scotland’s most distinctive filmmakers, Gerda Stevenson. In An Ìobairt, dormant echoes of the past within the Scottish landscape re-emerge to haunt the present, whilst The Storm Watchers (an innovative adaptation of George Mackay Brown’s play, shot during lockdown) presents the voices and perspectives of a series of women waiting upon the shore for their seafaring husbands to return.
The films will be introduced with a mini-concert of songs Margaret Bennett (who also features in An Ìobairt) and will be followed by a Q&A with Gerda Stevenson. Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
The Films of Gerda Stevenson
An Ìobairt / The Sacrifice
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 1996 | 25 min | 12A | Gaelic with English subtitles
The Storm Watchers
Gerda Stevenson | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Join us for an evening celebrating the films of one of Scotland’s most distinctive filmmakers, Gerda Stevenson. In An Ìobairt, dormant echoes of the past within the Scottish landscape re-emerge to haunt the present, whilst The Storm Watchers (an innovative adaptation of George Mackay Brown’s play, shot during lockdown) presents the voices and perspectives of a series of women waiting upon the shore for their seafaring husbands to return.
The films will be introduced with a mini-concert of songs Margaret Bennett (who also features in An Ìobairt) and will be followed by a Q&A with Gerda Stevenson. Presented with the kind support of Bòrd na Gàidhlig.
Icarus (After Amelia)
Sunday 19th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
Margaret Salmon | Scotland | 2021 | 58 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Filmed during subsequent Covid lockdowns in and around Govan, Icarus (after Amelia) is an exquisitely observed documentary exploring the often invisible work undertaken by women in Scottish communities. Beautifully captured on 35mm colour film, and drawing upon a diverse chorus of experiences, Salmon’s film is both a thoughtful investigation of female labour, and a tribute to the role played by women across Glasgow during the pandemic.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Shea Martin and Jessie Moroney and will be followed by a Q&A with Margaret Salmon.
Margaret Salmon | Scotland | 2021 | 58 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Filmed during subsequent Covid lockdowns in and around Govan, Icarus (after Amelia) is an exquisitely observed documentary exploring the often invisible work undertaken by women in Scottish communities. Beautifully captured on 35mm colour film, and drawing upon a diverse chorus of experiences, Salmon’s film is both a thoughtful investigation of female labour, and a tribute to the role played by women across Glasgow during the pandemic.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Shea Martin and Jessie Moroney and will be followed by a Q&A with Margaret Salmon.
Iorram (Boat Song)
Monday 20th June | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:00
Alastair Cole | Scotland | 2021 | 96min | PG | Documentary | Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
The first theatrical documentary shot entirely in Scottish Gaelic, Iorram is a lyrical portrait of the experiences of Hebridean fishing communities. Featuring a diverse variety of voices past and present, the film weaves a rich tapestry of folklore, oral history and community memories of a life lived in conversation with the sea, set in counterpoint with the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Alastair Cole | Scotland | 2021 | 96min | PG | Documentary | Scottish Gaelic with English subtitles
The first theatrical documentary shot entirely in Scottish Gaelic, Iorram is a lyrical portrait of the experiences of Hebridean fishing communities. Featuring a diverse variety of voices past and present, the film weaves a rich tapestry of folklore, oral history and community memories of a life lived in conversation with the sea, set in counterpoint with the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Vai
Tuesday 21st June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 20:45
Marina Alofagia McCartney | Amberley Jo Aumua | Becs Arahanga | Matasila Freshwater | Dianna Fuemana | Míria George | 'Ofa-Ki-Levuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki | Nicole Whippy | Sharon Whippy | Aotearoa New Zealand | 2019 | 90 min | 12A
A portmanteau film by nine female Pacific filmmakers, filmed across seven Pacific countries, Vai is a unique and innovative film that draws upon diverse perspectives to tell the story of one woman across nine different days in her life. Played by a series of different actors, and shaped by a variety of distinct directorial voices, Vai captures the multifaceted experience of being a Pacific Island woman whilst maintaining a dexterous continuity of style and mood.
Marina Alofagia McCartney | Amberley Jo Aumua | Becs Arahanga | Matasila Freshwater | Dianna Fuemana | Míria George | 'Ofa-Ki-Levuka Guttenbeil-Likiliki | Nicole Whippy | Sharon Whippy | Aotearoa New Zealand | 2019 | 90 min | 12A
A portmanteau film by nine female Pacific filmmakers, filmed across seven Pacific countries, Vai is a unique and innovative film that draws upon diverse perspectives to tell the story of one woman across nine different days in her life. Played by a series of different actors, and shaped by a variety of distinct directorial voices, Vai captures the multifaceted experience of being a Pacific Island woman whilst maintaining a dexterous continuity of style and mood.
From Us to Me
Wednesday 22nd June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 17:50
Amber Collective | England | 2016 | 87 min | 12A | Documentary | German with English subtitles
In 1987 the Amber Collective were the only British film crew allowed into the GDR, to
document the lives of a fishing co-operative and a Brigade of Women Crane Drivers in Rostock, East Germany. 36 years later, Amber returned to track down the individuals they had first met in 1987 to find out how their lives had changed in the years since. A unique, powerful documentary that troubles certain assumptions about the fall of the Berlin wall, From Us to Me explores some of the many stories of ‘Die Wende’ (the turn), of the changes experienced by ordinary people during the collapse of the GDR. Asking what was gained and what was lost?
The film will be introduced with a short set of songs bridging Scotland and Germany from Steve Byrne, and will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
Amber Collective | England | 2016 | 87 min | 12A | Documentary | German with English subtitles
In 1987 the Amber Collective were the only British film crew allowed into the GDR, to
document the lives of a fishing co-operative and a Brigade of Women Crane Drivers in Rostock, East Germany. 36 years later, Amber returned to track down the individuals they had first met in 1987 to find out how their lives had changed in the years since. A unique, powerful documentary that troubles certain assumptions about the fall of the Berlin wall, From Us to Me explores some of the many stories of ‘Die Wende’ (the turn), of the changes experienced by ordinary people during the collapse of the GDR. Asking what was gained and what was lost?
The film will be introduced with a short set of songs bridging Scotland and Germany from Steve Byrne, and will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers.
Film Ceilidh: Selkie Stories
Thursday 23rd June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
A Selkie Story
George Macpherson | Scotland | 2022 | 13 min | 12A | English
Mara: The Seal Wife
Uisdean Murray | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Seals’kin
Hanna Tuulikki | Scotland | 2022 | 20 min | 12A
Join us for a unique event hosted by the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Donald Smith exploring Scotland’s rich folklore of the seal people - selkies - and some of the different ways in which filmmakers have brought selkie tales to the big screen. The event will include a filmed traditional selkie story from the highland sennachie George Macpherson, an achingly romantic new interpretation of Hebridean selkie tales in Mara: the Seal Wife, and the Scottish premiere of Hanna Tuuliki’s mesmerising new film Seals’kin.
The films will be introduced with live selkie tales from Donald Smith.
A Selkie Story
George Macpherson | Scotland | 2022 | 13 min | 12A | English
Mara: The Seal Wife
Uisdean Murray | Scotland | 2021 | 40 min | 12A | English
Seals’kin
Hanna Tuulikki | Scotland | 2022 | 20 min | 12A
Join us for a unique event hosted by the Scottish Storytelling Centre’s Donald Smith exploring Scotland’s rich folklore of the seal people - selkies - and some of the different ways in which filmmakers have brought selkie tales to the big screen. The event will include a filmed traditional selkie story from the highland sennachie George Macpherson, an achingly romantic new interpretation of Hebridean selkie tales in Mara: the Seal Wife, and the Scottish premiere of Hanna Tuuliki’s mesmerising new film Seals’kin.
The films will be introduced with live selkie tales from Donald Smith.
Songs of the Open Road
Friday 24th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 18:15
Pat Collins | Ireland | 2022 | 50 minutes | 12A | Documentary | English
At the age of 10, Thomas McCarthy left County Offaly in Ireland and moved to London to live
with his siblings and mother in a halting site under the A40, the Westway, in West London, which members of the Traveller community still inhabit. Today he is one of Ireland’s most significant singers and the keeper of more than 1200 of Ireland’s oldest songs. Pat Collins lyrical, poignant documentary explores Thomas’ life and the deep resonance his songs continue to hold.
This film will be introduced with a mini-concert from the Scots traveller singer-storyteller, Jess Smith.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Pat Collins | Ireland | 2022 | 50 minutes | 12A | Documentary | English
At the age of 10, Thomas McCarthy left County Offaly in Ireland and moved to London to live
with his siblings and mother in a halting site under the A40, the Westway, in West London, which members of the Traveller community still inhabit. Today he is one of Ireland’s most significant singers and the keeper of more than 1200 of Ireland’s oldest songs. Pat Collins lyrical, poignant documentary explores Thomas’ life and the deep resonance his songs continue to hold.
This film will be introduced with a mini-concert from the Scots traveller singer-storyteller, Jess Smith.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Dark Horse on the Wind
Saturday 25th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 17:10
Myles O’Reilly | Ireland | 2022 | 105 min | 12A | Documentary | English
A larger-than-life figure on the Irish folk scene, Dark Horse on the Wind celebrates the life and songs of ballad singer Liam Weldon. Featuring contributions from young musicians such as Lankum, Lisa O’Neill and many more, Myles O’Reilly’s film celebrates a legendary character that Ireland almost forgot, and the vast footprint his songs and words have left behind in the
consciousness of the Irish diaspora.
The film will be introduced with a mini-concert from Irish musician Cathal McConnell (Boys
Of The Lough) and followed by a discussion led by Cathal about his memories of Liam Weldon.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Myles O’Reilly | Ireland | 2022 | 105 min | 12A | Documentary | English
A larger-than-life figure on the Irish folk scene, Dark Horse on the Wind celebrates the life and songs of ballad singer Liam Weldon. Featuring contributions from young musicians such as Lankum, Lisa O’Neill and many more, Myles O’Reilly’s film celebrates a legendary character that Ireland almost forgot, and the vast footprint his songs and words have left behind in the
consciousness of the Irish diaspora.
The film will be introduced with a mini-concert from Irish musician Cathal McConnell (Boys
Of The Lough) and followed by a discussion led by Cathal about his memories of Liam Weldon.
The screening will include closed captions for D/deaf and Hard-of-Hearing audiences. [CC]
Film Ceilidh: Who Owns the Land?
Sunday 26th June 2022 | Edinburgh Filmhouse | 15:00
The Glen is Ours
Henry Cass | Scotland | 1946 | 30 min | U | English
Gigha: Buying Our Island
Emma Davie | Scotland | 2003 | 60 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Join us for a special event of music, film and discussion exploring the ongoing question of
land rights in Scotland. In the drama The Glen is Ours, a returning soldier leads his community to oppose the sale of the Scottish glen in which they live, whereas the documentary Gigha: Buying Our Island, filmed in the early 00's follows a year in the lives of the Gigha community as they experience the highs, lows and responsibilities of owning their own island home.
The films will be introduced with a short set of live music from Adam Sutherland and followed by an audience discussion on land reform in Scotland, led by a panel of speakers from Bella Caledonia, hosted by Mike Small.
The Glen is Ours
Henry Cass | Scotland | 1946 | 30 min | U | English
Gigha: Buying Our Island
Emma Davie | Scotland | 2003 | 60 min | 12A | Documentary | English
Join us for a special event of music, film and discussion exploring the ongoing question of
land rights in Scotland. In the drama The Glen is Ours, a returning soldier leads his community to oppose the sale of the Scottish glen in which they live, whereas the documentary Gigha: Buying Our Island, filmed in the early 00's follows a year in the lives of the Gigha community as they experience the highs, lows and responsibilities of owning their own island home.
The films will be introduced with a short set of live music from Adam Sutherland and followed by an audience discussion on land reform in Scotland, led by a panel of speakers from Bella Caledonia, hosted by Mike Small.
Films of Action: Coalfield Communities in Lockdown
Wednesday 29th June 2022 | Scottish Storytelling Centre | 17:00
Various Community Filmmakers | Scotland | 2020-22 | 75
Minutes | N/C | Documentary | English with descriptive subtitles
When the pandemic hit in March 2020, it highlighted the inequalities that remain long after the mines closed in Scotland’s coalfields. It also demonstrated how resilient coalfield communities are in finding solutions to their own challenges, quickly self-organising to support residents who are vulnerable or in need; from sharing the responsibility of food provision to collectively writing songs of activism.
Films of Action is a community filmmaking project founded upon the belief that Scotland’s former coalmining areas – in which 10 per cent of the population live – have many inspiring stories to tell. Filmmakers Anne Milne and Shona Thomson worked with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Regional Screen Scotland to share big screen stories of lockdown told in people’s own voices. Come along to watch a selection and meet the real on-screen stars, followed by an open discussion on the action needed to support thriving communities.
Various Community Filmmakers | Scotland | 2020-22 | 75
Minutes | N/C | Documentary | English with descriptive subtitles
When the pandemic hit in March 2020, it highlighted the inequalities that remain long after the mines closed in Scotland’s coalfields. It also demonstrated how resilient coalfield communities are in finding solutions to their own challenges, quickly self-organising to support residents who are vulnerable or in need; from sharing the responsibility of food provision to collectively writing songs of activism.
Films of Action is a community filmmaking project founded upon the belief that Scotland’s former coalmining areas – in which 10 per cent of the population live – have many inspiring stories to tell. Filmmakers Anne Milne and Shona Thomson worked with the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Regional Screen Scotland to share big screen stories of lockdown told in people’s own voices. Come along to watch a selection and meet the real on-screen stars, followed by an open discussion on the action needed to support thriving communities.
The Sang's the Thing
Friday 1st July 2022 | Scottish Storytelling Centre | 17:00
Doc Rowe | England | 2020
Join us for a rare opportunity to watch Doc Rowe’s newly-edited documentary collecting performances of some of Scotland’s most notable singers, including Lizzie Higgins, Ray Fisher, Jane Turriff, the Stewarts of Blair, Willie Scott, Hamish Henderson, Tam Reid,
and Dave & Betty Campbell. Drawn from Doc’s considerable archive of recordings taken over the past 40 years, The Sang’s The Thing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Scottish folk revival.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Jimmy Hutchison.
Doc Rowe | England | 2020
Join us for a rare opportunity to watch Doc Rowe’s newly-edited documentary collecting performances of some of Scotland’s most notable singers, including Lizzie Higgins, Ray Fisher, Jane Turriff, the Stewarts of Blair, Willie Scott, Hamish Henderson, Tam Reid,
and Dave & Betty Campbell. Drawn from Doc’s considerable archive of recordings taken over the past 40 years, The Sang’s The Thing offers an unparalleled glimpse into the Scottish folk revival.
The film will be introduced with a short set of live music from Jimmy Hutchison.
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 1
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 2
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Folk Film Gathering 2022
Flyer page 3
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
click to view
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
2022
2021 programme
2021
Folk Film Gathering 2021
click to view poster
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
or scroll right for a synopsis of each film
Wend Kuuni
Gaston Kaboré | Burkina Faso | 1982
Set in precolonial Africa during the time of the Mossi Empire, Gaston Kaboré’s feature debut follows the story of Wend Kuuni, a young boy who has lost the ability to speak. Found lying near-dead in the dirt, Wend Kuuni is adopted by local villagers and given a new home. Underneath his new life, however, lies a deep, unspoken trauma. With the help of his playful adopted sister Pughneere, will Wend Kuuni be able to face the darkness in his past, and find his voice again? The first feature film to be made in Burkina Faso, ‘Wend Kuuni’ draws from African oral tradition to create a powerful cinematic fable.
Wend Kuuni was presented with the kind support of Africa in Motion.
Set in precolonial Africa during the time of the Mossi Empire, Gaston Kaboré’s feature debut follows the story of Wend Kuuni, a young boy who has lost the ability to speak. Found lying near-dead in the dirt, Wend Kuuni is adopted by local villagers and given a new home. Underneath his new life, however, lies a deep, unspoken trauma. With the help of his playful adopted sister Pughneere, will Wend Kuuni be able to face the darkness in his past, and find his voice again? The first feature film to be made in Burkina Faso, ‘Wend Kuuni’ draws from African oral tradition to create a powerful cinematic fable.
Wend Kuuni was presented with the kind support of Africa in Motion.
