News & Blog

Read the latest business news, blogs and thought leadership articles from our members, as well as updates on the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce's work in the city.

News & Blog

QMU film director releases new feature film set on Christmas Eve

Posted: 4th January 2017

Graham Drysdale, a Lecturer in Screenwriting & Film Production at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh has just released his first feature film ‘Wigilia’ which takes its name from the traditional Polish Christmas Eve celebration.

wigilia_iwona_glowinska

The film’s cameraman and producer, Grant McPhee, works as part of the camera team on ‘Outlander’ and has also worked on ‘Game of Thrones’.

Graham, the film’s director, said: “January and February are traditionally quiet months within the film industry and Grant had some down time last year and challenged me to come up with a story line and a concept which could be filmed in about five to six days. He generously provided his time, equipment and helped supply crew.

Graham said: “It’s been great working with Grant and to finally complete the film in time for Christmas.”

The film stars Iwona Glowinska, from the band Featherwest, and co-stars Duglas T Stewart, singer and songwriter of BMX Bandits – Glasgow musical icons and Kurt Cobain’s other favourite band. The story focuses on a lonely Polish cleaner in Glasgow who prepares a traditional ‘Wigilia’ meal but her peace is shattered by the arrival of an unexpected visitor seeking refuge in what he thought would be an empty flat. Both are lonely and in need of sanctuary over the Christmas period.

Graham concluded: “It’s been a challenging process making a low/no budget feature film but I’ve had great support from Grant. Importantly, I can now pass on the knowledge that I’ve gained during the process to students on the film and media degree course at Queen Margaret University.”

The film is now available to stream online at a cost of just £3.50.

The trailer can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/148777067

The full film is available at https://socialscreen.co.uk/films/wigilia

Business Comment

Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
Read more here