Scottish Films

About the Book: 

Because this book is about films related to a place, rather than to a genre, person, year or era, the range covered is hugely diverse. There will be films discussed here you have not heard of which are worth digging out and I would be beyond astonished if any reader has seen every film I treat as Scottish. 

What is a Scottish film?
Which are the best? And the worst?

BRAVEHEART • TRAINSPOTTING • THE WICKERMAN • SUNSET SONG • DOG SOLDIERS • ORPHANS • GREGORY'S GIRL • UNDER THE SKIN • YOUNG ADAM  • SCHEME BIRDS • CALIBRE • AND VIOLET • DIRECT • THE ANGELS SHARE • THE 39 STEPS • THE ROAD DANCE • AXE RAIDERS • GOD HELP THE GIRL • NAE PARASAN • RED ROSE • PLAYHOUSE

This book offers a meticulously researched guide to over 400 films set predominantly in Scotland, spanning from silent cinema to modern day blockbusters. Each entry provides essential details, a concise plot summary, contextual insights and critical analysis. 

All the opinions I offer in this book are mine, and mine alone. You’re free to disagree, and almost certainly will, and your opinion is equally valid.

Furse emphasises the connections to Scottish culture, highlight adaptations of literature and the real-life events inspiring these films. 

Scottish Films is a thrilling treasure chest, packed with fresh insights and lesser known gems waiting to be discovered. It’s a vibrant celebration of Scotland’s cinematic artistry. 

You may just discover your next watch!

Reviews: 

For film nuts this first directory of Scottish films is an unalloyed thing of beauty... Furse writes well and passionately. SCOTTISH FIELD

Scottish Films is an essential guide to the story of cinema in Scotland from the silent era to contemporary indie cinema. Mark Furse has done a heroic job researching films with Scotland at their heart. This will become an essential reference book for anyone interested in our cultural history. STUART COSGROVE, writer & broadcaster

This is a marvellous book. Makes me proud to be Scottish and proud to love Scottish films. If you’re either of these two it’s well worth a bawbee. Well done Mark you deserve a Scottish BAFTA. DON COUTTS, director of American Cousinsand others.

Exemplary in its encyclopaedic thoroughness and enjoyable to read, Mark Furse’s labour of love provides an indispensable map of Scottish film from the silent era to the present day. Scottish Films is an invaluable resource for serious researchers and casual viewers alike. PROFESSOR DUNCAN PETRIE, author of Screening Scotland

This is a brilliant new book referencing every film set substantially in Scotland – the result is stunning. NICK VARLEY, film producer

This is a terrific compendium of Scotland’s huge and rich film history. It’s written with passion, an eye for detail, and a huge weight of knowledge by someone unafraid to throw in a deal of criticism too. KIRSTY WARK, journalist & broadcaster

About the Author:

MARK FURSE, former Head of Law at Glasgow University, has embraced his passion for cinema post-retirement, delving into Scotland’s film legacy with the meticulous detail of a scholar. Raised in diverse countries and educated across continents, Mark’s unique journey in academia led him to an international career, eventually settling in Glasgow. The book reflects his deep love for film and dedication to cultural preservation.