As part of this event, Central Scotland Documentary Festival is delighted to present the 2026 Stirling 900 Award for Achievement in Documentary to John Archer, recognising his outstanding contribution to documentary film and Scotland’s screen culture.

Founder and Managing Director of Hopscotch Films, John has produced an exceptional body of work including The Story of Film: An Odyssey, Arcadia, My Old School, Tish and I Am Belfast. A former Head of Music and Arts at BBC Scotland and founding Chief Executive of Scottish Screen, his influence extends far beyond his work as a producer.

We are thrilled to welcome John to Stirling and celebrate a career defined by collaboration and an enduring commitment to documentary storytelling.

Directed by BAFTA-winning director Paul Wright, Arcadia explores Britain’s changing relationship with its land. Moving from village celebrations and seasonal rituals to farming, industry and lost crafts, the film reveals a landscape shaped by tradition, transformation and time. A vivid and often unsettling portrait of rural Britain, Arcadia captures the beauty, brutality, magic and madness of our relationship with the land, and with one another. Using over 100 years of archive footage, Arcadia is accompanied with a grand, expressive new score by Adrian Utley of Portishead and Will Gregory of Goldfrapp.

Every ticket includes admission to the documentary, a main course (vegan/gluten free) and an alcoholic or soft drink. Food will be served at the film start time and can be eaten during the film.

Festival Pass holders will incur a £7 supplement charge.

Want to take in as much of #CSDF26 as possible? Why not purchase one of our festival passes and see as many films across the festival as you like. Passes available for only £15/£10 (students)

Purchase Festival Pass