Glenrothan: On the red carpet with Brian Cox and cast at the London premiere

In what has been an incredible week for Scottish talent, films and storytelling, Glenrothan arrives just one day after the premiere of James McAvoy’s directorial debut, California Schemin’, marking yet another screen legend stepping behind the camera. This time, it’s Brian Cox, making his feature directorial debut with a deeply personal family drama set in the Scottish Highlands.

The film charts the story of two brothers estranged for decades, with Cox taking on the role of Sandy – a far cry from the formidable Logan Roy, revealing a character who is softer, more reflective and quietly complex. Opposite him is Alan Cumming, playing Donal, who returns to Scotland after years in the US, following a life lived far from home, only to be drawn back in the wake of tragedy.

Gloriously slow-paced and steeped in the beauty of the Scottish landscape, Glenrothan is, at its heart, a story about forgiveness, reconciliation and compassion – themes that feel especially resonant at a time when the world can seem increasingly bleak. The film also boasts standout performances, not least from the phenomenal Shirley Henderson, alongside an exceptional turn from Cumming.

On the red carpet, he reflected on stepping behind the camera for the first time – something he “never expected” to do – and spoke about Scottish pride, identity and the importance of telling stories rooted in compassion and human connection.

We also caught up with Alexandra Wilkie, who discussed making her on-screen debut in such a personal project and what it was like working with Cox both behind and in front of the camera, describing him as warm, generous and unexpectedly approachable. She also spoke about her character’s role within the family dynamic and the pride of representing Scotland on screen.

Neil Zeiger echoed that sense of national pride, reflecting on Cox’s natural transition into directing and the importance of telling distinctly Scottish stories, as well as why the film’s themes of brotherhood, compassion and reconciliation feel particularly timely.

Meanwhile, executive producer Nicole Ansari Cox shared insight into her multifaceted role on the production – from shaping the film behind the scenes to directing its striking landscape sequences – and spoke about Cox’s intuitive approach to working with actors.

Sarah Bradbury

Glenrothan is released nationwide on 17^th April 2026.

Watch the trailer for Glenrothan here: