New Welsh films to watch in the cinema and at home

With the evenings getting darker and the temperature starting to dip, it’s the perfect time of year for a film night, whether on the big or small screen.

The Welsh film industry is going from strength to strength, producing an increasing number of films that span genres from contemporary westerns to chilling horrors. Some come directly from the minds of Welsh creatives, while others make use of our studios and gorgeous landscapes to give their productions a distinctly Welsh hue.

Whether you fancy a trip to the cinema or an evening curled up on the sofa, here are seven recently released Welsh films to watch this winter season.

What it’s about: Timestalker recounts the trials and tribulations of hapless heroine Agnes, who is reincarnated every time she makes the same mistake: falling in love with the wrong man. A sci-fi comedy set over numerous time periods, the movie, which stars Alice Lowe, Jacob Anderson and Nick Frost, is filmed entirely in Wales, with the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) standing in as the Scottish Highlands, Penpont House as Georgian England and Cardiff Bay as 1980s New York.

Welsh connection: filmed in Wales, Welsh cast members, Welsh producer

Where to watch: Prime Video

What it’s about: This independent British film is based on the 2008 stage play of the same name and stars Rebel Wilson in her first non-comedic role. The film, which focuses on the lives of two people living with brain injuries and their partners who struggle to care for them, was shot in various locations around North Wales, including Tuttle Street, in Wrexham city centre.

Welsh connection: filmed in Wales, Welsh writer, Welsh co-director

Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV

What it’s about: At the height of South African apartheid in the late 1960s, an international group of working-class students and young professionals living in London answered Oliver Tambo’s secret call for undercover agents, bravely flying out to South Africa to aid in efforts to end the oppressive regime. This historical documentary film tells the story of Tambo’s daring, non-violent strategy to bring hope to his embattled people in South Africa, and the Londoners who risked their livelihoods to aid him.

Welsh connection: filmed in Wales, Welsh director, Welsh cast members

Where to watch: The film will be screening at select cinemas throughout the winter season

What it’s about: This critically-acclaimed animated family film beautifully brings to life Michael Morpurgo’s classic novel of the same name. During an intrepid family sailing trip, a young boy and his dog fall overboard and find themselves washed ashore on a mysterious, idyllic island, where the only other resident is an elderly Japanese man living as a hermit. As dangerous invaders appear on the horizon, it becomes clear the two characters must join forces to save their fragile island paradise.

Welsh connection: Welsh producer, Welsh art director, Welsh funded

Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV

What it’s about: Wales has had a hand in making great horror flicks since the classic The Wolf Man was partially filmed here back in 1941, and this is the latest petrifying title to roll off the Welsh production line. Named after the psychological fear of being stared at, Scopophobia tells the story of four girls who enter an abandoned factory to retrieve stolen money, only to be locked inside. Terror ensues.

Welsh connection: filmed in Wales, Welsh cast members, Welsh director

Where to watch: The film will be screening at select cinemas throughout the winter season

What it’s about: Filmed over seven years, this documentary recounts the extraordinary story of activist Rudrani Chhetri's efforts to set up a model agency for India’s trans community. Overseen by West Wales-based director Ila Mehrotra, the film keenly showcases the prejudice, violence and marginalisation that India’s transgender “Hijra” population face, but also makes space for much laughter and joy, as Rudrani’s clients battle to find their place on the catwalk and within society itself.

Welsh connection: Welsh producer, Welsh funded

Where to watch: The film will be screening at select cinemas throughout the winter season

What it’s about: A musical set within a North Wales chicken factory? It’s clear from the premise alone that Chuck Chuck Baby is going to be a little different to your average singalong story. Racking up a string of exemplary reviews, this feelgood film with genuine emotional depth tells the tale of factory worker Helen, whose dire circumstances in life are given a welcome boost when her schoolgirl crush arrives back in town.

Welsh connection: filmed in Wales, Welsh director, Welsh producer

Where to watch: Prime Video

Not enough Welsh films for one winter? Other recently-released Welsh films to check out include: Freud’s Last Session, Unicorns, Gaza: A Story of Love and War, Swede Caroline, Seize Them! My Happy Ending, Five Dates, Our Son, The Magic Flute, The Creator and A Million Days.

Film Hub Wales (FHW) celebrates cinema by supporting organisations that screen film, from film festivals, to societies and mixed arts centres. Working with over 300 Welsh exhibitors, FHW aims to bring the best British and international film to all audiences across Wales and the UK, and, through endeavours like its podcast, works to showcase Welsh talent in the industry. Learn more about the organisation's work.

Creative Wales is a Welsh Government economic development agency established to promote and grow the creative industries in Wales. They offer funding, support, and guidance across a range of sectors from TV and Film, Animation – including Immersive Tech, AR/VR – through to Games, Music, and Publishing, positioning Wales as one of the best places in the world for creative businesses to thrive. Learn more about the role of Creative Wales.

And just in case you needed yet more Welsh film inspo, here is a handpicked selection of essential films to watch for a perfect introduction to Welsh cinema.