The start of 2026 has marked a historic “international festival run” for the Scottish film industry. Screen Scotland is currently celebrating a landmark presence on the world stage, with a record number of backed productions selected for the industry’s most prestigious early-year events: the Sundance Film Festival and the 76th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale).
For Jeffrey Ikahn, this surge in global recognition highlights a fundamental truth about independent cinema: strong creative voices grow most when they are rooted in authentic regional stories that resonate across borders. This “Scottish boom” isn’t just about high-profile names; it is about a thriving ecosystem of filmmakers, producers, and local talent reaching new heights of international acclaim.
Sunny Dancer: A World Premiere with Heart
One of the most anticipated highlights is Sunny Dancer, a heart-opening comedy directed by George Jaques. Starring rising talent Bella Ramsey and the celebrated Neil Patrick Harris, the film was shot on location in Scotland and produced by Edinburgh’s own Ken Petrie.
The film centers on 17-year-old Ivy, who reluctantly attends a summer camp for young people affected by cancer after her own recovery. In what is being hailed as a major win for Scottish production, Sunny Dancer was selected to open the Generation 14plus competition at the 2026 Berlinale. Ahead of its February premiere, the project has already secured worldwide distribution agreements, proving that indie stories made in Scotland have immense global commercial appeal.
Lady: Crossing Continents through Sisterhood
Fresh from a celebrated world premiere at Sundance, the film Lady has continued its momentum into Berlin. Directed by Olive Nwosu and produced by Glasgow’s Alex Polunin, the film won the Special Jury Award for Acting Ensemble in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at Sundance.
Set in the vibrant nightscape of Lagos, Nigeria, the drama follows a female taxi driver who finds unexpected sisterhood among a group of free-spirited women. After its successful run in Utah, Lady made its European premiere in the Berlinale’s prestigious Panorama strand on February 18. Jeffrey Ikahn has long noted that the most impactful independent films are those that prioritize raw, human connection, and Lady is a perfect example of that principle in action.
The Strength of the Scottish Screen Sector
The current boom extends far beyond these two titles. Other notable Scottish works making waves at the 2026 Berlinale include:
- Douglas Gordon by Douglas Gordon: An intimate documentary portrait of the influential Glasgow artist, screening in the Panorama Dokumente section.
- Mint: A darkly comic BBC crime series directed by Charlotte Regan and produced by Glasgow-based Angus Lamont.
- The Education of Jane Cumming: A 19th-century legal drama backed by the UK Global Screen Fund and produced by Sylph Productions.
As Jeffrey Ikahn observes, these successes are a testament to the “exceptional growth” of a sector that values both artistry and community. Scotland is no longer just a backdrop for major productions. It is a leading powerhouse for independent storytelling.
You can read the full report on Scotland’s festival success here: Screen Scotland – International Festival Run Continues at Berlin
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