A spurtle is a wooden Scottish kitchen tool, dating from the 15th century, that is used to stir porridge, soups, stews, and broths…
Spoons at the ready, as every October the quiet Highland village of Carrbridge transforms into the spirited stage for the World Porridge Making Championship. At the heart of this quirky, yet heartfelt contest lies a humble goal: to stir the perfect bowl of oats, water, and salt. In The Golden Spurtle , director Constantine Costi follows competitors from across the globe as they converge with ladles, secrets, and dreams of winning the coveted trophy.
This year’s event carries special weight as beloved chieftain Charlie Miller, who has guided the contest for decades, prepares to step down. Through Charlie’s farewell and the devotion of contestants, the film becomes more than a culinary chronicle – it’s a meditation on tradition, community, and the rituals that bind us together.
With rustic imagery, wry humour, and a warm, observational lens, The Golden Spurtle captures both the silliness and the sincerity of its subject. A celebration of passion in unlikely places – this is a documentary to savour – comforting, stirring, and unforgettable.
The Golden Spurtle is screening at Palace Cinemas Byron Bay as part of the 2025 British Film Festival – see who wins the coveted prize on Sunday at 10.15am.
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