Watch: New Whisky Galore! trailer released ahead of launch

Kevin Guthrie, Gregor Fisher, Ellie Kendrick and Naomi Battrick in a scene from the film. Picture: Contributed/Arrow Films

The remake of the film, based on Compton Mackenzie’s 1947 novel of the same name, stars Gregor Fisher as postmaster Macroon, Eddie Izzard, Sean Biggerstaff and Naomi Battrick.

T2 Trainspotting actor James Cosmo also appears, while Kevin Guthrie (Sunshine on Leith, Sunset Song, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them) and Game of Thrones actress Ellie Kendrick complete the main cast.

Izzard plays Home Guard commander Captain Wagget, tasked with trying to thwart the efforts of the residents of fictional island Todday, who cannot believe their luck after running out of whisky due to war-time rationing.

Kevin Guthrie. Picture: Contributed/Arrow Films

Last year, the comedian revealed he had been unaware Whisky Galore! was based on real life events, after the SS Politician ran aground off the Hebridean island of Eriskay with a huge cargo of whisky in 1941.

He added: “I had seen the original film before. I didn’t realise it was a real story, I thought it sounded too outrageous. It’s a fairytale, but it’s a real story. That’s the weird thing.

The film, which was mired in difficulties prior to principal photography starting in 2015, received its world premiere at last year’s Edinburgh International Film Festival.

Filmed mainly in the north east town of Portsoy, the new film is intended to be a ‘modern interpretation’ rather than a proper remake.

The filmmakers said last year: “The remake will tell the perennial story of a united community putting itself against officialdom and authority.

“It is the purpose of this film to tap into that international sharing and genuinely entertain a world audience with a popular tale that is universal.

The film will be released in Scotland on May 5, before hitting cinemas in the rest of the UK on May 19.