Full Breakdown
Glasgow Film Festival to Premiere Documentary on Kenmure Street Protest
1/7/2026, 8:59:12 PM
Overview of the Documentary
The documentary *Everybody to Kenmure Street*, directed by Felipe Bustos Sierra and executive produced by Emma Thompson, will open the 22nd edition of the Glasgow Film Festival (GFF) on February 25, 2026. The film recounts the events of May 13, 2021, when a Home Office raid in Pollokshields, a diverse neighborhood in Glasgow, prompted hundreds of local residents to gather and successfully block the deportation of two Sikh men. This peaceful protest lasted for eight hours and garnered international attention, highlighting a significant act of civil resistance in Scotland's recent history.
Key Details of the Film
*Everybody to Kenmure Street* utilizes crowd-sourced footage, archival material, and dramatized scenes featuring actors who relay testimonies from anonymous contributors. The film aims to capture the essence of community solidarity and the right to voice dissent, reflecting Glasgow's long-standing tradition of civil disobedience. It will have its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival prior to its UK premiere at GFF.
Significance of the Event
The film is described as a poignant reminder of community action against injustice, resonating with contemporary global issues. Paul Gallagher, head of the GFF program, emphasized the film's relevance, stating it offers a "deeply moving vision of community action and resistance to injustice." The documentary is expected to inspire audiences by showcasing the power of collective action in the face of governmental authority.
Official Statements & Responses
Felipe Bustos Sierra remarked, “This film is a snapshot of a day, of a neighborhood, and of gestures repeated through time, for the right to have a voice and to live in peace.” He expressed anticipation for the film's reception among local audiences, hoping it serves as a "joyful reminder" of their potential to effect change. Paul Gallagher echoed this sentiment, highlighting the film's importance in reflecting Glasgow's "people-loving heart."
Criticism & Opposition
While the documentary has been met with enthusiasm, there are calls from some local figures, including Pollokshields Councillor Jon Molyneux, for the film to be screened locally as well. However, details regarding such screenings have yet to be announced.
What's Next
Following its premiere at the Glasgow Film Festival, *Everybody to Kenmure Street* will be released in UK and Irish cinemas on March 13, 2026. The festival itself runs from February 25 to March 8, 2026, and will also feature James McAvoy's directorial debut, *California Schemin’*, as its closing gala.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This film is a snapshot of a day, of a neighbourhood, and of gestures repeated through time, for the right to have a voice and to live in peace.” — Felipe Bustos Sierra, Director
- “I’m delighted that Felipe Bustos Sierra will be returning to GFF to open our festival with this hugely inspiring film.” — Paul Gallagher, Head of Programme for GFF
- “Everybody to Kenmure Street tells a story that is pertinent for the whole world right now, focusing on a very specific moment in Glasgow’s recent past to offer a deeply moving vision of community action and resistance to injustice.” — Paul Gallagher, Head of Programme for GFF
