The 78th Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF) is scheduled to take place from August 14 to 20, 2025. This year's festival showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world, highlighting both emerging and established filmmakers.
The festival's programme includes:
43 new feature films
18 feature film world premieres
6 special retrospective screenings
6 short film programmes
In Conversation events with acclaimed filmmakers
Midnight Madness screenings
Notable films in the competition for The Sean Connery Prize for Feature Filmmaking Excellence include "Best Boy," "Blue Film," "Concessions," "In Transit," "Low Rider," "Mortician," "Novak," "On the Sea," "Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago," and "Two Neighbours." These films represent a range of genres and storytelling styles, reflecting the festival's commitment to showcasing innovative cinema.
Special retrospective screenings will feature six original James Bond films starring Sean Connery, presented in 4K restorations. Additionally, the festival will celebrate the work of filmmaker Budd Boetticher with screenings of five of his films, highlighting his contributions to the Western genre.
The festival will also host In Conversation events with filmmakers such as Kevin Macdonald, Nia DaCosta, Ben Wheatley, Andy Starke, and Andrea Arnold, offering audiences insights into their creative processes and careers.
Venues for the festival include the newly reopened Filmhouse, Cameo Cinema, Vue Omni, Monkey Barrel Comedy, and a new pop-up screen at the National Gallery of Scotland's Hawthornden Theatre. Tollcross Central Hall will serve as the Festival Hub, hosting industry panels, networking events, and informal meeting spaces.
Tickets for the festival will be available through the EIFF website and the EdFringe official app. Press and industry accreditation is open and will close on August 2, 2025.
The EIFF continues to be a significant platform for filmmakers and audiences, fostering a global appreciation for cinema and its diverse narratives.