Gaelic filmmaking in Scotland

Martin-Jones, D. (2015) Gaelic filmmaking in Scotland. In: Nowlan, B. and Finch, Z. (eds.) Directory of World Cinema: Scotland. Intellect: Bristol, pp. 25-30. ISBN 9781783203949

Abstract

Gaelic filmmaking in Scotland exists as a sporadic but gradually growing, sub-national or regional film culture. Gaelic filmmaking emerged in the 1980s, and like much filmmaking in Scotland might never have existed were it not for finance from television. At present it would be inaccurate to discuss a Gaelic film industry, or Gaelic cinema. However, Gaelic filmmaking does exist, and should be understood in relation to the history of the Gàidhealtachd (Gaeldom). The Gàidhealtachd is, broadly speaking, in geographical terms the Highlands and Islands of Scotland, but in particular the Western Isles where around 60% of the population speak Gaelic. Gaelic filmmaking reflects upon the region’s history and identity. It is often a very youthful phenomenon, which attempts to depict visually an oral history passed down through a language nearing threat of extinction, in relation to a distinctive landscape that is imagined by filmmakers to be alive with mythical stories and legends.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Martin-Jones, Professor David
• Authors: Martin-Jones, D.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Culture and Creative Arts > Theatre Film and TV Studies
• Publisher: Intellect
• ISBN: 9781783203949