Glenrothan is a 2025 British comedy-drama film directed by Brian Cox in his feature directorial debut. Described as a "love letter to Scotland", it stars Cox and Alan Cumming.
Glenrothan premiered at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival on 11 September 2025, and was released in the United Kingdom by Lionsgate on 17 April 2026.
Contents
Premise
After 40 years abroad, Donal returns to Scotland to make amends with his brother, Sandy.
Cast
Alan Cumming as Donal
Brian Cox as Sandy
Shirley Henderson as Jess
Alexandra Shipp as Amy
Siobhan Redmond as Gus
Production
The film was announced in September 2021. Director Brian Cox had previous worked on the radio drama series McLevy, written by David Ashton, who also co-wrote the screenplay for Glenrothan. Producer Neil Zeiger later urged Cox to direct Glenrothan himself, and he accepted.
Principal photography began in Scotland in August 2024. Filming locations included Glasgow and the village of Gartmore. Production wrapped in October 2024.
Release
Protagonist Pictures owns the international sales rights to the film. It premiered at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival on 11 September 2025. It was also screened in the Grand Public section of the 20th Rome Film Festival in October 2025.
Glenrothan closed the 37th Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 12, 2026.
The film was released cinematically in the United Kingdom on 17 April 2026.
Reception
On review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 19% based on 26 reviews, with an average rating of 4.0/10.
