The Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF), one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious film festivals, is making a full-scale return in 2024 after overcoming significant challenges in recent years. Founded in 1947, with Sir Rufolf Bing as the first Festival Director, after the devastation of World War II, with founding vision to reunite people through great art. As part of the broader Edinburgh International Festival, EIFF has a storied history of celebrating the art of cinema and providing a platform for global filmmakers.
Edinburgh Castle, inaugural International Festival in 1947
A Rich Legacy
The EIFF was initially established as the International Festival of Documentary Films, intended to spotlight documentaries, a relatively new form of filmmaking at the time. Over the years, it expanded its scope to include a diverse range of films, from features to shorts and experimental works, cementing its place as a premier international film festival. The event has played a crucial role in the discovery and promotion of new talent, showcasing works from both established directors and emerging filmmakers.
The Queen, Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Margaret at the Usher Hall in 1956
Festival’s Purpose and Impact
EIFF has long been celebrated for its ability to bring together filmmakers, critics, industry professionals, and audiences from around the world. It serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange, artistic expression, and industry networking. The festival’s mission to preserve film heritage is evident in its retrospectives and restorations, which help maintain the history of cinema for future generations.
The festival is not only a celebration of global cinema but also a crucial industry event. Filmmakers, distributors, producers, and other industry figures converge in Edinburgh to discuss current artistic developments and explore future collaborations. For film enthusiasts, EIFF offers an immersive experience, with opportunities to watch a wide array of films, attend panel discussions, and engage in conversations with filmmakers.
Challenges and Revival
The festival faced a major crisis two years ago when the Centre for the Moving Image, which operated EIFF and Edinburgh’s Filmhouse cinema chain, went into administration. This led to a scaled-down version of the festival being incorporated into the Edinburgh International Festival last year. However, 2024 marks a triumphant comeback for EIFF, which has been “rebuilt from scratch” under the leadership of new director Paul Ridd.
crowd of supporters outside the Edinburgh Playhouse at the 2016 Festival
EIFF 2024 Highlights
This year’s seven-day program promises a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees. The festival will kick off with the UK premiere of Nora Fingscheidt’s adaptation of Amy Liptrot’s memoir “The Outrun” and conclude with the world premiere of “Since Yesterday”, a history of Scotland’s girl bands directed by Carla J Easton and Blair Young.
In competition for the new £50,000 Sean Connery prize for feature filmmaking excellence, the festival will feature 37 new feature films, 18 world premieres, and various competitions. Additionally, the event will feature industry panel discussions, including an In Conversation event with controversial Argentinian director Gaspar Noé and an extended introduction to Powell and Pressburger’s “I Know Where I’m Going!” by renowned editor Thelma Schoonmaker.
Key Venues and Participants
EIFF 2024 will take place across several iconic venues in Edinburgh, including the Church Hill Theatre, Edinburgh Playhouse, Festival Theatre, The Hub, The Lyceum, The Queen’s Hall, Usher Hall, Scottish Parliament, National Museum of Scotland, St Giles’ Cathedral, and George Heriot’s.
The festival will see participation from a wide range of key figures in the film industry, including filmmakers, film studios, distributors, agents, producers, screenwriters, critics, journalists, and audiences from around the globe. Volunteers will also play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of the event.
Edinburgh Playhouse
Looking Ahead
The Edinburgh International Film Festival 2024 is set to reaffirm its status as a leading global platform for cinema, offering a vibrant mix of films, discussions, and cultural experiences. With its rich history and renewed vigor, EIFF continues to be a beacon for the global film community, showcasing the best in cinema and fostering connections that transcend borders. names
The Edinburgh International Film Festival runs from 15-21 August.
