Whisky Galore (2016)
A mischievous Scottish comedy about a whisky-starved island, a shipwrecked cargo, and the gloriously cunning locals who outwit a pompous English commander.
Whisky Galore - Movie Information
- Original Title: Whisky Galore
- Release Year: 2016
- Directed by: Gillies MacKinnon
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Romance, Comedy
- Runtime: 1h 38m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 26, 2016 (United Kingdom - PG)
- Alternative Titles: 威士忌嘉豪 (CN), Whisky Galore! (UK), Massor av Whisky (SE)
- Production Companies: Whisky Galore Movie Ltd
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Whisky Galore - Plot
The story of the inhabitants of the isolated Scottish island of Todday, in the Outer Hebrides, where gloom sets in as their wartime rationing of whisky runs out. When cargo ship the SS Cabinet Minister runs aground the shrewd islanders run rings around the buffoonish English Home Guard commander Captain Waggett and conspire to hide away cases of the precious amber nectar.
Whisky Galore - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the island mischief unfold:
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Whisky Galore - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Gillies MacKinnon
Main Cast
- Gregor Fisher
- Eddie Izzard
- Naomi Battrick
- Ellie Kendrick
- Sean Biggerstaff
- Kevin Guthrie
- James Cosmo
- Fenella Woolgar
- Michael Nardone
- John Sessions
Writers
- Peter McDougall
Producers
- Iain Maclean
- Alan J. Wands
Whisky Galore - FAQs
What is Whisky Galore about?
Whisky Galore follows the residents of a remote Scottish island who face a wartime whisky drought — until a cargo ship runs aground nearby. The islanders cleverly conspire to salvage the precious bottles while outwitting their pompous English Home Guard commander, Captain Waggett, played by Eddie Izzard.
Is Whisky Galore based on a true story?
Yes! The film is inspired by real events. In 1941, the SS Politician ran aground off the Scottish island of Eriskay, carrying thousands of cases of whisky. The islanders salvaged much of the cargo, and the incident became the basis for Compton Mackenzie's beloved 1947 novel, which inspired both this film and the classic 1949 original.
Where can you stream Whisky Galore?
You can rent or buy Whisky Galore on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube. It's not currently on a major subscription streaming service, but all three platforms make it easy to watch at home whenever you're ready.
Is Whisky Galore a remake of an older film?
It is! This 2016 version is a remake of the beloved 1949 Ealing Comedy of the same name, directed by Alexander Mackendrick. Both films are based on Compton Mackenzie's novel. The remake brings a fresh cast and modern sensibility while staying true to the warmhearted, mischievous spirit of the original.
Who are the main actors in Whisky Galore?
The cast is a real treat. Eddie Izzard plays the bumbling Captain Waggett, while Gregor Fisher leads the islanders as Macroon. Naomi Battrick and Ellie Kendrick play his daughters, with Sean Biggerstaff, Kevin Guthrie, James Cosmo, and Fenella Woolgar rounding out the charming ensemble.
Where was Whisky Galore filmed?
The film was shot on location in Scotland, capturing the rugged beauty of the Outer Hebrides. Filming took place on the Isle of Lewis and Harris, giving the movie an authentic sense of place that perfectly suits the story's remote island setting and windswept coastal atmosphere.
Is Whisky Galore worth watching?
If you enjoy gentle, warmhearted British comedies with a strong sense of place, Whisky Galore is a delightful watch. Eddie Izzard's comic performance as the hapless Captain Waggett is a highlight, and the film's breezy charm and gorgeous Scottish scenery make it an easy, enjoyable afternoon film.
Who directed and wrote Whisky Galore?
The film was directed by Gillies MacKinnon, a Scottish filmmaker known for his feel for character and landscape. The screenplay was written by Peter McDougall, adapting Compton Mackenzie's classic novel. The score was composed by Patrick Doyle, adding a warmly Celtic musical texture to the story.
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