Young, drunk, but not in love, Premature asks the question; if you and your flatmate have a one-night stand and induce a pregnancy, what do you do?
The brand-new romantic comedy, from Cumbernauld writer-director Kevin Walls, follows Cameron and Eilidh (played by James Rottger and Elle Watson) a flatmate duo, who find themselves having to answer that very question.
While the pair originally decide an abortion would be the best route, Eilidh is unable to proceed with the medication, leaving the duo navigating the complicated situation of preparing for a child together, despite not being romantically involved.
Set in the sunny streets of Glasgow, Premature feels distinctly different from Scotland’s usual portrayal in film and tv; “Scottish stories are often framed through history, crime or social realism. Those stories have their place, but with Premature I wanted to make something contemporary, romantic and recognisably Scottish without defaulting to bleakness” Walls stated.
Instead, the film pursues a modern Scottish sense of humour and relatability, painting a picture that feels distinctly 21st century and true to daily life; showing there’s more to Scotland than William Wallace and substance abuse.
The film not only feels Scottish but looks the part too. Landmarks such as Kelvingrove art gallery, the University of Glasgow, the Griffin Pub, and even the hellscape that is the University of Strathclyde’s Livingstone tower, all make an appearance.
While we can all appreciate the epic visuals of Spiderman swinging down Glasgow City Centre, we don’t often get to appreciate the city playing itself on the big screen, and for that the film is very refreshing. Unlike big productions the city has seen in recent years, Premature carries a drastically smaller budget of just £16,000. That’s an estimated 10,000 times less than Spiderman Brand New Day. The film truly makes the most of what it’s got, delivering a real filmmaking achievement that oozes charm.
Premature is at its best when leaning into its goofier elements – with one scene that involves a pair of tights and a Facebook marketplace cot a particular favourite of mine – delivering perfectly in the comedic sense.
However, the film’s romantic elements can fall short at times, not making the best use of the space they are given. Wandering into planes of predictability, relationship beats and plot points can lean into tropes all too familiar to land with the same punch or surprise they could have 20 years ago.
Yet, that’s not to say this undermines the film on the whole. Premature still delivers a warm, cozy and goofy watch, that celebrates its Scottish setting and brings a smile to the face. A great choice if you looking to go for a wee cinema trip with your Mum – as long as she is not averse to vomit, as Cameron’s gag reflex is not to be underestimated.
Premature releases 18th September 2026
Images and Press Screener Curtesy of Sonorous Films
Hi, I’m Neil Highlands Singer, a third-year student studying Media and Journalism alongside Social Policy. As Deputy Editor-in-Chief, I get to spend my time working across a range of topics and holding a varied range of responsibilities. This is exciting as I enjoy a range of interests and hobbies outside of Uni, with a special spot for film, sports, and the wider creative industries.
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