Sean Connery’s Bond Films Light Up Edinburgh Film Festival 2025 in 4K Glory

Talk about bringing Bond home! Edinburgh’s prodigal son, Sean Connery, is set to dominate the city’s International Film Festival this year with something that’s got this film buff properly buzzing – all six of his official 007 outings restored in glorious 4K. And trust me, seeing Goldfinger’s gorgeous gold-painted scenes in ultra-high definition is worth the ticket price alone.

The Bond Bonanza: Connery’s 007 Legacy Returns

From Dr. No’s sun-soaked Jamaica to You Only Live Twice’s volcanic lairs, festival-goers are in for an absolute treat. The complete lineup includes Dr. No, From Russia With Love, Goldfinger, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, and Diamonds Are Forever – each one scrubbed up and looking sharper than Q’s latest gadget.

Having caught a sneaky preview of the 4K restoration (perks of the job!), I can confirm these aren’t just your standard touch-ups. The level of detail is properly mind-blowing – you can practically count the stitches in those iconic Savile Row suits.

Star Power: Hollywood Heavyweights Hit Edinburgh

But it’s not just about Bond. The festival’s pulled off quite the coup with its contemporary lineup. Peter Dinklage is bringing some serious star power with The Toxic Avenger remake – and before you roll your eyes at another reboot, this one’s got Kevin Bacon and Elijah Wood along for the ride. Plus, our very own Julia Davis is in there, guaranteeing some properly dark British humour.

Andrea Riseborough’s teaming up with national treasure Brenda Blethyn in Dragonfly, fresh from smashing it at Tribeca. And speaking of fresh, Rene Zellweger’s stepping behind the camera for her directorial debut, They – an animated short that’s already generating serious buzz.

FAQ: Your Festival Questions Answered

When are the Bond screenings happening?

The 007 films will be shown throughout the festival, with special evening screenings during opening week. Each film gets two showings, so you won’t need a license to kill for tickets.

How can I get tickets to the premieres?

Festival passes and individual screening tickets go on sale next week through the EIFF website. Pro tip: Sign up for their newsletter now for early bird access.

Will any of the stars be attending?

Peter Dinklage and Andrea Riseborough are confirmed for Q&As following their premieres, with more celebrity appearances to be announced.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 Edinburgh International Film Festival is shaping up to be an absolute belter. Whether you’re a die-hard Bond fan gagging to see Connery’s 007 in crystal-clear 4K, or you’re after some fresh cinematic treats, this year’s programme is proper gold.

Fancy making it a proper film fest experience? Get yourself sorted with tickets when they drop next week. And if you’re planning to catch all six Bond films (you absolute legend), maybe pack a cushion – that’s a lot of hours in those cinema seats!

Share your favourite Connery Bond moments in the comments below, or give us a shout if you’re planning to make the pilgrimage to Edinburgh this summer. See you at the pictures!