The Glasgow Film Festival has revealed an impressive lineup for its 21st edition, set to run from February 26 to March 9. This year's event will feature a diverse array of films, including 92 premieres from 39 countries. Among the highlights is the gala world premiere of Scottish director John Maclean's survival thriller Tornado, which opens the festival. The closing film, Make It to Munich, directed by Martyn Robertson, tells the inspiring story of Ethan Walker, a young footballer recovering from life-threatening injuries. Additionally, Hollywood star James McAvoy will join the festival for an "In Conversation" event, reflecting on his illustrious career. The festival will also showcase several other notable films and series, underlining its significance in connecting local talent with global audiences.

The Glasgow Film Festival, Scotland's largest annual cinematic celebration, promises to be a memorable event this year. Running over 12 days, it will present a rich tapestry of films, including 12 world premieres. The opening film, Tornado, directed by John Maclean, is a thrilling tale set in the rugged landscape of late 18th-century Britain. The protagonist, Kōki, finds herself in a perilous situation when her father's traveling puppet show crosses paths with a ruthless criminal gang led by Tim Roth's character, Sugarman. As Kōki attempts to steal gold from the gang, she embarks on a heart-pounding journey filled with action and danger. Lionsgate U.K. plans to release the film across the country from May 23.

Closing the festival on March 9 will be Make It to Munich, a documentary by Martyn Robertson. The film follows Ethan Walker, a promising teenage footballer from Aberdeenshire, who suffers severe injuries in a road accident while on a soccer scholarship in the United States. With the help of pioneering surgeon Professor Gordon Mackay, Ethan recovers and decides to cycle from Hampden to Munich for Scotland's opening match against Germany in Euro 2024. Carrying the match pennant entrusted to him by the Scotland National team, Ethan's journey symbolizes resilience and determination.

Beyond these headline events, the festival will screen numerous other films, including The Return, featuring Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche in a modern retelling of Homer's Odyssey. Scottish premieres such as The Extraordinary Miss Flower, Harvest, and Nicolas Cage's psychological thriller The Surfer will also captivate audiences. Moreover, the festival will host the TV series Fear, adapted from Dirk Kurbjuweit's novel and shot in Glasgow. A special program, "From the Heart of Europe: Austria on Screen," will introduce a variety of Austrian films, ranging from drama to comedy.

As the final edition overseen by Allison Gardner, CEO of Glasgow Film, this year's festival underscores its role in bridging local talent with international recognition. Isabel Davis, executive director at Screen Scotland, emphasized the importance of showcasing Scottish talent through films like Tornado, On Falling, and Fear. The event promises to be a vibrant platform for cinema enthusiasts and filmmakers alike, highlighting the richness and diversity of global filmmaking.