Intrepid British and Irish Film Festival Announces 2025 Programme
29 October – 19 November 2025 | Nationwide
Mercury Twin Cinemas | 30 October – 12 November
The wait is over, the very best of British and Irish cinema is heading back to Whitianga’s big screens, with the Intrepid British and Irish Film Festival 2025 running from 30 October to 12 November. Whitianga film lovers can once again enjoy the festival right here at Mercury Twin Cinemas, with two full weeks of exceptional storytelling.
Tickets are on sale now, inviting moviegoers to experience a line-up of 20 films that showcase the warmth, wit, and brilliance of British and Irish filmmaking. Expect unforgettable performances, acclaimed directors, and a mix of New Zealand premieres, festival favourites, and long-awaited returns.
Festival highlights include:
- The Choral – Ralph Fiennes stars in this heart-soaring period drama about young men finding harmony amid the chaos of WWI.
- Moss & Freud – Filmed partly in New Zealand, this biopic explores the unlikely bond between supermodel Kate Moss and artist Lucian Freud.
Spinal Tap II: The End Continues – The hilarious and nostalgic sequel to the cult rock mockumentary, with appearances by Paul McCartney and Elton John. - Re-Creation – Jim Sheridan’s powerful courtroom drama reimagines one of Ireland’s most famous unsolved cases.
- Glenrothan – Brian Cox makes his directorial debut with a heartfelt story of family, whisky, and homecoming.
- The History of Sound – Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor star in this tender Cannes competition favourite about love and memory.
British and Irish Film Festival Director Fergus Grady says:
“This festival is all about celebrating stories that move, challenge, and entertain us, whether that’s through the humour of Four Mothers, the drama of Re-Creation, or the nostalgic fun of Spinal Tap II. We’re proud to bring these incredible British and Irish films to audiences nationwide, and I can’t wait to see people coming together to enjoy them on the big screen.”
Local cinema owners Anne-Maree and Matt McDougall are thrilled to welcome the festival back to Whitianga:
“The British and Irish Film Festival is always a highlight on our calendar,” says Anne-Maree. “It brings such a fantastic range of films to Mercury Twin Cinemas – from laugh-out-loud comedies to emotional dramas. We love seeing our community and visitors come together to celebrate great cinema.”
The Intrepid British and Irish Film Festival 2025 runs from 30 October – 12 November at Mercury Twin Cinemas, Whitianga.
🎟 Tickets on sale now at www.mercurytwincinemas.com/british-and-irish-film-festival
