Must-Attend UK Film Festivals in 2024: Submission Deadlines, Dates, and Contact Info to Know | Features

The UK film festivals you need to know: 2024 dates, submission and contact details | Features

– What opportunities are available for independent⁤ filmmakers at⁢ the Raindance Film Festival?

Must-Attend UK Film Festivals in 2024:⁤ Submission Deadlines, Dates, and Contact​ Info​ to Know

Being a filmmaker or⁢ film enthusiast, attending‍ film festivals can be an enriching and exciting experience. In the UK, ‌there are several ⁣prestigious⁣ film festivals that attract filmmakers and industry professionals from around the world. If you are looking to showcase your work,⁢ network with like-minded individuals, or simply enjoy some great films, here are some ‍must-attend UK film festivals ⁣in 2024 along with submission deadlines, dates, and contact info you​ need to know.

1. BFI ‍London Film Festival

– Submission Deadline: TBD

– Festival Dates: October 2 – 13, 2024

-‍ Contact Info: [BFI London Film Festival Website](https://www.bfi.org.uk/london-film-festival)

The BFI London Film Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals in the UK. It ‍showcases a diverse selection of films from around the world and attracts top industry professionals. If you want to be a part of this iconic festival, be sure to mark your calendars and submit your film before the deadline.

2. Edinburgh International Film Festival

– Submission Deadline: TBD

– Festival ‌Dates: ‍June 19 – 30, 2024

– Contact ‌Info: [Edinburgh International Film Festival Website](https://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/)

The Edinburgh International Film Festival is the longest-running film ⁤festival in the UK and offers a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers. With a⁤ rich history and ​a‍ reputation for showcasing groundbreaking ⁣films, this festival is⁢ a must-attend event for anyone in the film industry.

3. Sheffield Doc/Fest

– Submission Deadline: TBD

– Festival Dates: June 6 – 11, 2024

– Contact Info: [Sheffield Doc/Fest Website](https://sheffdocfest.com/)

Sheffield Doc/Fest is one‍ of the leading documentary festivals in the UK and‌ attracts filmmakers, industry professionals, and documentary enthusiasts from around the world. With a focus on innovative and thought-provoking documentaries, ⁣this festival is a great place to ⁤discover new talent and engage with ⁣important social issues.

4. Raindance ⁢Film Festival

– Submission Deadline: TBD

– ‍Festival Dates: September 18 – 29, 2024

– Contact Info: [Raindance Film Festival Website](https://www.raindance.org/)

The Raindance Film⁣ Festival is known for its support of independent filmmakers and cutting-edge‍ cinema. With a⁣ strong focus on creativity and originality, this festival ​offers a platform⁣ for filmmakers to ‌showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. ‍If you are an independent ‍filmmaker looking to make a mark, ‍this festival is⁤ a⁤ must-attend⁣ event.

5. Manchester International Film Festival

– Submission Deadline: TBD

-​ Festival Dates: March‍ 7 – 17, 2024

– ⁤Contact Info: [Manchester International Film Festival Website](https://www.maniff.com/)

The Manchester International Film Festival is⁢ a hidden gem in the UK ⁢film festival circuit. With a diverse selection of⁤ films and ‌a strong emphasis on storytelling, this festival offers a unique platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with audiences. ⁢If you are looking ⁤for a welcoming and inclusive festival ⁤experience, this is the place to be.

attending film⁤ festivals in the UK can be a valuable and rewarding experience for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike. Whether you are looking to showcase your work, ‌network with industry ​professionals, or simply enjoy some great⁤ films, these must-attend​ UK film festivals in 2024 are sure to offer ‌something for everyone. Be sure to mark your calendars, submit your​ film before the deadlines, and make the most of ‌these exciting events.

Discovering the vibrant landscape of film festivals in the UK is an ⁤enriching experience. With approximately⁤ 50 diverse ‌festivals taking ‌place annually ‌across the country, there⁤ is an eclectic‍ range of ‍cinematic showcases catering to various tastes and interests, from local gems to global extravaganzas.

For inclusion in this eclectic list, festivals must run for a⁤ minimum of four days and feature a selection of compelling films. If you‌ want‍ your festival to be ⁤highlighted here, feel free to reach out to us for consideration.

Admission numbers are⁢ estimated based on averages ⁣or recent data provided by the festivals themselves.

August Festivals

Africa In Motion

Director: Elizabeth Chege
Next Edition Dates:⁣ August 31-September 8, 2024
Attendees: 650‍
Support: Screen Scotland, Filmhub Scotland
Guests: Rosine ​Mbakam, Amil Shivji, Ntare Mwine
About: Africa In Motion, the UK’s ⁢largest African film festival held in ⁢Edinburgh, celebrates and​ promotes ‍African and Black diaspora artists. Noteworthy ‌for its focus on the Black diaspora’s impact ⁤in music, the festival has‍ explored genres like⁢ punk and ⁤death metal.
Standout Moment: Collaboration with Lupita Nyong’o on a YouTube animation project.
Submission Deadline: TBA for ​2025 ‌
Contact: info@africa-in-motion.org.uk

Chichester International Film⁤ Festival

Directors: Walter⁢ Francisco, Anne-Marie ⁤Flynn
Next Edition Dates: August⁤ 9-25, ⁣2024
Attendees: 8,300
Support:​ BFI’s Film Hub ⁤South ​East
Guests: Ralph Fiennes, Kathleen⁤ Turner, John Lithgow
About: ⁢Celebrating over 30 years,​ Chichester is​ the largest film‌ festival on the South Coast, showcasing about 150 feature films annually. The 2023 ⁤edition featured 25 UK premieres and retrospectives on ‍Hugh Bonneville⁢ and Cate Blanchett. With screenings across seven venues, ‍highlights ‌include open-air showings in Priory Park and silent‌ movies⁢ with live music at St. John’s Chapel. ⁣
Standout Moment: Q&A with Alec Guinness⁣ discussing ‘Tunes Of Glory’.
Submission Deadline: May 3, 2024
Contact:⁤ walter@chichestercinema.org

Edinburgh ‍International Film Festival (EIFF)

Director:‌ Paul Ridd
Next Edition Dates: ⁤August 15-21, 2024⁣
Attendees: 10,300
Support: Screen Scotland, Scottish government funding⁢
Guests:⁢ John Huston, Gene Kelly, Jennifer Lawrence
About: Established⁣ in 1947 as⁢ the International Festival ‌of Documentary Films, EIFF stands as the world’s oldest⁣ continuously operating film⁤ festival. After a challenging year, the​ festival’s 2023 edition was a ​joint effort with Edinburgh International Festival and saw changes in leadership. Andrew Macdonald took over as chair, ⁢and Paul‍ Ridd from Picturehouse became the director. More updates on ⁣the⁢ 2024 edition are anticipated.
Standout Moment: Various interactions​ like Bette Gordon ⁤reconnecting with Fran Rubel Kuzui after 30 years and memorable‍ conversations sparked by different projects.
Submission Deadline: April 19,‍ 2024
Contact: https://www.edfilmfest.org.uk/contact/

FrightFest

Directors: Greg Day, Alan Jones, Paul⁣ McEvoy, Ian Rattray
Next⁢ Edition Dates: August 22-26, 2024
Attendees:‌ 8,500
Support: Sponsors, ​ticket sales
Guests: Guillermo del Toro, Christopher Nolan, Simon Pegg
About: FrightFest ⁢has become a London tradition, gathering horror enthusiasts in Leicester Square every August bank⁤ holiday⁢ weekend‍ since 2000. Known for⁣ premiering top names in‌ the genre, ⁢the⁢ festival featured works like Joe Stephenson’s​ ‘Doctor Jekyll’ in 2023. Apart from ⁢the August event, FrightFest also hosts special⁢ Halloween screenings and a ⁤two-day​ ‘terror-thon’ in ⁤Glasgow.
Standout Moment: The remarkable three-minute applause for George A Romero and Guillermo del Toro’s accolade of calling the festival ‘the Woodstock of Gore’ among ‍other cherished memories.
Submission Deadline: June 1, 2024
Contact: frightfest@mac.com

September Offerings

London Spanish Film ​Festival

Director:‍ Joana Granero (festival director), Patricia Pérez (head of programming)
Next Edition Dates: September 18-25, 2024
Attendees: 2,000
Support: Spanish embassy, sponsorships, ticket sales
Guests: Victoria Abril, Javier Bardem, Maribel Verdú
About: The esteemed London⁢ Spanish Film Festival has been⁣ a key platform for contemporary and classic Spanish cinema for almost two ⁢decades. Hosting a ⁢’Spring Weekend’ annually, the festival ⁢recently premiered Juan Diego ​Botto’s‍ ‘On The Fringe’ and Mikel Gurrea’s ‘Cork’. An award ⁤for the best film is presented by a panel of judges.
Standout Moment: Exciting sightings ​of ‍celebrities like Steve⁢ Buscemi and‍ Mike Leigh attending ⁣film screenings.
Submission Deadline: May⁣ 31, 2024
Contact: info@londonspanishfilmfestival.com

Odyssey

Director: Hiu Man Chan‌
Next⁤ Edition Dates: September 9-29, 2024‍
Attendees: 2,500
Support: Sponsorship, ticket sales
Guests: Lim-Chung Man, Alex ​Law, Tessa Keswick
About: Established in 2021, Odyssey is dedicated to showcasing films from Greater China and Chinese communities globally. ​Focusing on cultural connectivities, the festival provides a ‍platform for diverse⁢ narratives and ​perspectives.

Discovering Film Festivals

Film festivals are a thriving ⁢aspect⁢ of the entertainment industry,⁤ offering⁣ a platform for⁤ filmmakers to showcase their⁢ work to⁣ a global​ audience. Each year, numerous festivals take place around the world, each with its unique ⁤theme and selection of films. In 2023, for⁣ instance, the Odyssey Film Festival made history by curating its program ‌based on the UN’s⁣ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, aligning with the theme of “Global Sustainability.” This innovative ⁢approach‍ transformed the festival strands into representations​ of the Sustainable Development Goals, a concept ⁤that had not been previously ⁣explored by filmmakers.

One prominent festival‌ in⁤ the UK is the⁣ BFI London Film Festival (LFF), established in 1957 as ⁣the country’s largest film festival.⁢ With over 300 films, TV series, and virtual reality⁣ installations featured in its⁢ program, LFF attracts a substantial audience of 290,000 attendees, including online viewers. Notable⁣ guests like Robert DeNiro, Jennifer Lawrence,‌ and Daniel Craig⁤ grace the festival with ⁣their presence, adding to ⁣its allure and prestige. The festival also provides ⁤a platform for​ emerging filmmakers and hosts an industry program that includes co-production events and talent ⁢development schemes.

October Festivals

BFI London‌ Film Festival ⁣(LFF)

Under the directorship of Kristy Matheson, the ​next edition of LFF is scheduled ​for ⁤October 9-20, featuring a diverse ⁤range of cinematic experiences. The festival’s funding ⁢sources include revenue,⁤ government grants,​ and in-kind ⁤services, ensuring its ​continued success and⁤ growth. LFF’s awards program recognizes outstanding contributions in various categories, including best film, documentaries, and short films. Noteworthy moments at LFF include the introduction of ambitious films like “The Kitchen,”‍ resonating with audiences and showcasing London’s creative spirit.

Bolton International Film Festival

Initially a community ​arts project, the Bolton International ‌Film Festival has evolved into a significant event, featuring titles from emerging filmmakers and hosting industry ‌events on sales, distribution, and screenwriting. ‍With‌ notable guests like​ Diane Morgan ‌and Julie ‌Hesmondalgh,⁢ the festival attracts a ​diverse audience and provides a platform for talent from marginalized ‍backgrounds.

British Urban Film Festival (BUFF)

As the longest-running Black-owned film festival in the UK, BUFF ‍shines a spotlight on diverse voices and narratives. The festival’s relocation to Leeds and Halifax in​ 2023 signifies its growth ⁤and expanding reach. With a focus on underrepresented communities, BUFF aims to amplify voices that are often overlooked ‌in mainstream media.

Cambridge‍ Film Festival

Established ⁢in 1977, the Cambridge Film Festival is ⁣the second-longest-running festival in the UK, showcasing around 100 films annually. In addition to screening premieres, the festival​ runs⁢ a Youth Lab for young critics ​and hosts ⁣an industry⁢ day for aspiring⁤ filmmakers. The festival’s history of discovering ⁣new talents, ‍such ‌as​ Christopher Nolan, highlights its significant contribution to the film industry.

Cinemagic⁣ International Film and Television Festival for Young⁤ People

Catering to a younger audience, the Cinemagic​ Festival in Belfast features prominent guests like M. Night Shyamalan and Saoirse Ronan, inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. The festival’s Young⁣ Filmmaker Competition has launched the careers of talented individuals like Lee Cronin and ‍the⁤ Tohill brothers, demonstrating its ‍role in⁤ nurturing new talent in the industry.

Exploring⁢ Diverse Film Festivals

From mainstream events like the⁢ BFI London Film Festival ⁣to niche festivals ⁤like the British ‍Urban​ Film Festival, the ​UK’s film festival⁢ landscape offers a rich tapestry of ​cinematic experiences. Each ⁢festival contributes⁣ uniquely to the cultural fabric ⁢of the country, celebrating diversity, ⁤creativity,⁣ and innovation in filmmaking. As these festivals continue to evolve and grow, they play a vital role⁤ in shaping the future of ‌the film industry, nurturing emerging⁤ talent and providing ⁣a platform for underrepresented voices to be heard.

Exploring Unique Film Festivals Across the‍ UK

Discovery Film Festival

Location: Dundee, Scotland
Next Edition: ‍To be confirmed (Last held in October 2023)
Attendees: 800
Financing: ⁣Supported ‌by Creative Scotland
Overview:⁣ The Discovery Film ⁤Festival, situated at Dundee Contemporary Arts, caters to a young audience‍ with ⁣a pay-what-you-can approach. Run by a team of ‍youthful ambassadors aged 15-19, ​the festival offers various educational initiatives and solely features in-house programming.
Highlight: Unearthing budding talent ahead of their acclaim, such as‍ Taika Waititi ⁣with ⁣”Boy” in‌ 2010 and Alicia Vikander’s‌ “Kronjuvelerna (The Crown Jewels)” in 2012.
Submission ⁢Deadline: Yet to be announced
Contact: mike.tait@dca.org.uk

Doc’n Roll Film Festival

Curators: Colm Forde and​ Vanessa Lobon
Next Edition: October 24 – November ⁢10, 2024
Special Guests: Björk, Jarvis Cocker, Foals
Attendees: ⁤9000
Financing: Ticket​ sales, in-kind sponsorships, and film submissions
Overview: Celebrating its 11th year, this UK-wide event focuses on showcasing independent⁤ music ⁢documentaries in London and 12 other cities. Doc’n Roll ⁣also spearheads a UK event⁤ cinema, distribution, and​ worldwide ‍sales service‌ for indie music documentaries.
Memorable Moment: Meeting Björk during the festival’s inception​ added an unexpected enchantment to the debut event according to Vanessa Lobon.
Submission⁢ Deadline: July 18, 2024
Contact: info@docnrollfestival.com

FilmBath Festival

Organizer: Jasmine Barker
Next ⁢Edition: October 8-17, 2024
Paid Admissions:⁤ Not disclosed
Funding: Supported by BFI and IMDb
Overview: Formerly known as Bath Film‍ Festival and‌ endorsed by⁣ Ken Loach, FilmBath grants awards like the IMDb film awards, including the new filmmaker and Script to Screen prizes. This event champions female filmmakers through ⁤its F-Rating system and screens​ acclaimed international titles.
Submission Deadline: July 1, 2024
Contact: info@bathfilmfestival.org.uk

Folkestone Documentary Film Festival

Directors:⁣ Charlie Phillips⁢ and James Collie
Next Edition: October 17-20, 2024
Attendees: 1500
Funding: Backed by Film Hub South East⁣ Film Exhibition Fund,⁤ Creative Folkestone, and⁣ Folkestone‌ Town Council
Notable Guests: Marie Lidén, Laura Wadha, Kim Hopkins
Overview: Originating as a documentary film club, this festival ⁣has swiftly made its‍ mark on​ the UK scene ​with ⁢unique offerings.​ Folkestone hosts engaging industry sessions ⁣for emerging documentary filmmakers and communal ⁤meals as a concluding festival tradition.
Submission Deadline: May 6, 2024
Contact: Info@folkestonedocumentaryfestival.co.uk

Grimmfest

Director: Simeon ​Halligan
Next Edition: October‍ 3-6, 2024
Paid Admissions: Figures ⁤not available
Funding:⁤ Supported by⁢ ticket sales and sponsorships
Notable Guests: Reece Shearsmith, Mick Garris, Alice Krige
Overview:⁢ Held annually⁤ in Manchester, ⁣Grimmfest spotlights a limited ⁢selection of genre⁣ films, including premieres. Established in 2009, the festival is managed by‌ filmmakers with their production arm, Grimmfest Films.
Submission Deadline: August⁢ 2,⁤ 2024
Contact: info@grimmfest.com

Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival

Director: Berwyn ⁤Rowlands
Next‍ Edition: October 8-13, 2024
Paid Admissions: 11,200
Funding: Supported by various organisations including The Michael Bishop⁣ Foundation, BFI, ‍and Creative‍ Wales
Notable Guests: Dee Rees, Simon Russell Beale,‌ Cheryl Dunye
Overview: Iris Prize in Cardiff, running for 17 ‍years, focuses on queer narratives and offers⁤ substantial awards like the £30,000 short film prize. The festival also invests in⁤ British documentary filmmaking through its Documentary Film Finance Fund.
Submission Deadline: June 2, 2024
Contact: berwyn@irisprize.org

Little Venice Film Festival

Director: Marc Cameron
Next Edition:​ October 22-27, 2024
Paid Admissions: Not‌ available
Funding: Supported⁢ by Westminster Community Arts Fund, Little Venice, Hyde ‌Park, Westbourne ward, and Zopa Bank
Notable Guests: Troy Kotsur,​ Ferdia​ Walsh-Peelo
Overview:‍ Located in Little Venice, this festival showcases‌ cinema centered on marginalised‌ communities ‌alongside British and international ⁣independent‍ films. Specialised screenings​ cater⁤ to disabled, deaf, blind, ⁢and neurodivergent ‌audiences.
Memorable Moment: Watching the impact of screenings for deaf and blind individuals was touching​ for all attendees, including Oscar winner Troy Kotsur.
Submission Deadline: October 1,⁣ 2024
Contact: marc@littlevenicefilmfestival.org

Native​ Spirit Festival

Director: Tweed
Next⁤ Edition:⁤ October 12-November 7, 2024
Paid Admissions: Data ⁢not available
Funding: Private sponsorships, donations, and sales
Notable Guests: Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, Asinnajaq, Red ‌Haircrow
Overview: ⁤The first of its kind in the UK, Native Spirit celebrates Indigenous⁢ filmmakers and Narrative Sovereignty through non-competitive ⁢showcases and ​accompanying ​talks and performances across the UK and Spain.
Memorable⁢ Moment: The 2011 visit by Indigenous Elders from various American ​communities, with the oldest participant aged 115, ⁣remains etched⁣ in the​ festival’s history according to Tweed.
Contact: Not available

Submission deadline: March 20,​ 2024
Contact: ‌nativespiritfilms@gmail.com

Discovering Film Festivals in November

The International Horror Festival of Wales – Abertoir

Belfast Film ‌Festival (BFF)

CineCity The Brighton Film Festival

French ⁤Film⁢ Festival UK

Leeds​ International Film ‌Festival (LIFF)

London International Animation Festival (LIAF)

London Korean Film ⁣Festival (LKFF)

In 2023, the Korean Cultural ‍Centre UK (KCCUK) organized the Korean Film Festival, the largest of its kind outside of Korea, to celebrate 140 years of diplomatic relations ​between Korea ⁣and the⁤ UK. The festival took place at the ⁣BFI Southbank and featured a variety of Korean films and cultural events. The festival⁤ is a major ⁤highlight in the UK’s cultural calendar, attracting ​film ⁤enthusiasts and⁣ industry professionals alike.

Next on‍ the list is the Manchester Animation Festival (MAF), set to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2024.‌ With paid admissions reaching 8,000, ⁣MAF is ‌the largest animation festival in the UK. Notable guests have included industry veterans like Peter Lord, ​Joanna Quinn, and Barry Purves. The festival ⁢offers a platform for showcasing⁤ animated features, shorts, and immersive films, along with hosting an Animation National Forum day for industry discussions and⁣ networking opportunities.

The‌ UK Jewish Film ⁣Festival, led by Michael Etherton, is dedicated to⁢ exploring Jewish life through films from‌ around the world. With over 10,000 paid admissions, the festival⁣ includes screenings‍ in UK cinemas and online platforms. Notable guests have included Keira Knightley, Helena Bonham⁢ Carter, and Steve⁣ McQueen. ‌The festival also commissions short films through⁢ two film funds, fostering ⁤new talent within the industry.

Previously in 2024, various film festivals ​took⁣ place across the UK, including ​the Horror-on-Sea Film Festival in January, the‍ BFI Future Film Festival in⁤ February, and the Glasgow Film Festival and Keswick Film Festival. Each⁢ event offered a unique platform for⁤ showcasing ‍diverse cinematic experiences and engaging with ⁤industry professionals. The⁤ festivals welcomed notable ​guests, screened a⁣ range of films,⁢ and provided opportunities for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work.

Borderlines Film Festival
Director: Naomi Vera-Sanso
Attendees: ⁤22,000
Next ⁣Edition: March 1-17, 2024
Support: ‍BFI Audience,⁣ The Elmley Foundation, Hereford City Council
Guests: Terence Davies, Toby Jones, ⁢Stephen Frears
Description: ​Borderlines is‍ the UK’s largest rural film ⁣festival, spanning across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Malvern,⁣ and the‌ Welsh borders. The festival’s‌ focus is to bring cinema⁣ to local‌ communities,​ hosting screenings at unique venues‌ like village⁣ halls, bookshops, and churches.
Submission Deadline: December (TBC)
Contact: ⁣info@borderlinesfilmfestival.co.uk

Crystal Palace⁣ International Film Festival (CPIFF)
Director: Roberta Gallinari
Next Edition: February 29-March 23, 2024
Attendees: 2,200
Support: Local ⁢company sponsors, film submissions, ticket ⁤sales
Guests: Paul Weller, Johnny Vegas, ⁢Mike Reiss
Description: Crystal Palace takes place at various ‍venues in‌ southeast London, emphasizing the ⁣social aspect of film ‍watching. The festival also presents a Rising Star award,​ offering a young filmmaker paid work experience in the industry.
Submission Deadline: December 2, 2024
Contact:⁢ films@cpiff.co.uk

Manchester Film Festival (MFF)
Director: Neil Jeram-Croft
Next Edition: March 15-24, 2024
Attendees:⁣ 5,800
Support: Sponsors, ticket sales, film submissions
Guests: Simon Pegg, ⁤Shia LaBeouf, Mark Gatiss
Description: Celebrating ⁤its 10th edition, MFF features ⁣Q&A sessions after every screening and nightly after-parties. ⁣The festival also offers an industry program with over 20 panels, awards, an un-commissioned screenplay competition, and memorable experiences ⁢like the Love Without Walls ⁣after-party.
Submission Deadline: ‍November 2024 (TBC)
Contact: ‍hello@maniff.com

Oska Bright Film Festival
Head Programmer: Matthew Hellett
Next Edition: March 11-17, 2024
Attendees: 3,500
Support: BFI
Guests: Steve Oram, Ben Wheatley, Andrea Arnold
Description: Oska Bright is‌ a leading​ festival​ showcasing‍ films by individuals with learning ⁢disabilities or autism. It features around 100 films ‍annually,⁢ promotes accessible screenings, offers venue training, and supports aspiring ‍filmmakers. Oska runs every two years and tours other festivals in non-festival ⁤years​ to present features, workshops, and‍ seminars.
Submission Deadline: May 2024 (TBC)
Contact: oskabright@carousel.org.uk

Queer East ⁤Film Festival
Director: ⁢Yi ⁤Wang
Next⁤ Edition: April 17-28, 2024
Attendees:‍ 5,000
Support: BFI, Arts Council England
Guests: Anucha Boonyawatana, Perci ‌Intalan, Tsai⁢ Ming-liang
Description: Queer East showcases LGBTQIA+ films from‌ east and southeast Asia across London venues. ‍The festival’s focus is on representing queer Asian communities and spotlighting emerging talent, aiming to provide ⁢exposure⁣ to cultures ‍and stories not commonly seen.
Submission Deadline: ‌January⁤ 2025 (TBC)
Contact: info@queereast.org.uk

Carmarthen ​Bay Film Festival
Director: ⁢Simon Howlett
Next Edition: May 20-23, 2024
Support: Film Hub Wales, Wales Interactive, Lunix OM, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Film ⁢Carmarthenshire
Guests: John Parr, Jamie Anderson, ‌Benjamin Field
Description: Running since 2012, ‍Carmarthen Bay takes place‍ in Llanelli, ⁣Wales, offering ​free screenings. The festival has expanded to include Ffresh Festival for media art students in Wales and International Media Festival ⁢of Wales, recognizing filmmaking and content creation.
Submission‌ Deadline: February 2025 (TBC)
Contact: admin@carmarthenbayfilmfestival.co.uk

Romford Film‍ Festival / Romford Horror Film ‌Festival
Directors: Spencer​ Hawken and Natalie Bays
Next Edition (RIFF): May 24-28,⁣ 2024
Next Edition (RHIFF): February 29-March 3, ⁤2024
Attendees: 2,000
Support: In-kind support
Guests: Robert Davi, Luke Goss, Rutger Hauer, Giovanni Lombardo Radice
Description: Romford hosts two festivals, one mainstream⁣ and one horror-themed, collaborating⁤ with ⁤the Eurasian Creative Guild to showcase central‌ Asian⁤ films rarely seen in the UK. The ‍festival’s ⁢highlight was successfully operating post-Covid lockdown in 2020, attracting ⁢a record attendance.
Submission Deadline: March (RIFF), December (RHIFF)
Contact: theromfordfilmfestival@gmail.com

London Indian‌ Film Festival (LIFF)
Director: Cary Rajinder Sawhney
Next Edition: June 17 ⁣- July⁣ 3
Attendees: 8,000

-10,000 ​Funding: Bagri Foundation,⁢ BFI, Film‌ Hub Network
Notable guests: Shekhar Kapur,⁣ Gurinder​ Chadha, Asif Kapadia
About: The London ⁤Indian Film ⁣Festival (LIFF), being ‌Europe’s largest annual South Asian Film event, is ​held simultaneously in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds. The festival ⁢showcases UK premieres of films from the region and‌ includes events ‍like Brit-Asian Shorts and the Satyajit Ray Short Film Competition. ‍LIFF ⁤attracts a ‍significant non-Asian audience, ⁤with the director describing‌ it as the “punk rock ‍of Indian film festivals.”

Memorable moment: “Being one ⁤of the three ⁤festivals still standing in May 2020 lockdown, when⁤ we ⁢switched our program online and tripled our audience.” — Cary Rajinder Sawhney.
Submission deadline: March 2025 (TBC)
Contact: Krushil@londonindianfilmfestival.co.uk

Sheffield DocFest

Festival director: Annabel ‌Grundy (managing​ director), Raul Niño Zambrano (creative director)
Dates of next edition: June 12-17, 2024
Paid admissions: 35,000
Funding: ⁤Sheffield City Council, BFI, sponsorship, project grants
Notable ⁢guests: Michael ⁣Moore, Paul Greengrass, Werner Herzog
About: Sheffield DocFest,⁤ the UK’s largest documentary festival, completed its 30th ⁤anniversary in 2023. ‌The festival screens world premieres, hosts an industry strand featuring MeetMarket,‍ and showcases award-winning documentaries. DocFest also presents⁣ awards ​in various categories like Competition, first feature, short, ‍youth jury, audience, alternate ‍realities, and ‌the Tim Hetherington award.

Memorable moment: “Opening night‍ of the ‌2022 edition with the UK⁤ premiere of Moonage Daydream by Brett Morgen. It was a magical moment to screen the‍ film ‍in the iconic Sheffield City Hall where Morgen himself mixed ​the sound live during the screening.” — Raul Nino‌ Zambrano.
Submission deadline: March 2025 (TBC)
Contact: info@sheffdocfest.com

Raindance Film Festival

Festival director: David Martinez (executive ⁣director); Martyna Szmytkowska, Malaika Bova, Suzanne Ballantyne (artistic directors)
Dates of next edition:⁣ June 19-29, 2024
Paid admissions: 16,000
Funding: Film⁤ London, BFI
Notable guests: Olivia Colman,‌ Jude Law, ‌Sally Hawkins
About: Raindance Film Festival, situated in London’s West End, is a platform for‌ independent films. The festival, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2022, also founded the British Independent ​Film Awards (Bifas) and presents awards for best UK feature and⁤ best debut feature. Raindance recently​ moved its annual dates from October to June and offers‌ a script competition alongside​ its ⁣industry showcase.

Memorable moment: “At my first ⁣Raindance in ​2012 Alan Rickman showed up uninvited at our⁢ Opening ​Gala on Haymarket.⁣ He ‍asked⁢ for Elliot [Grove, Raindance founder] and told‌ him he wanted to ‘just want ⁣to quietly‌ sit on​ the back of ⁤the room, no photos’. That to me proved the reach of Raindance, the ⁤love‍ and support from the local industry,‌ and the relaxed environment we create at the festival.” — David Martinez.
Submission deadline: February 2025 (TBC)
Contact: info@raindance.co.uk

Ramsgate International Film and TV ⁣Festival

Festival director: ⁣Sylvie Bolioli
Dates of next edition: June ⁢25-30,‌ 2024
Paid admissions: 1,000
Funding: Film Hub South East, ‌BFI,‍ Kent Community Project, Ramsgate⁣ Town Council
Notable guests: Valarie Leon,⁤ Nick ​Broomfield, Rupert Jones
About: Ramsgate International Film & ⁢TV Festival, despite facing closure, was saved by a group of enthusiasts and filmmakers, including patron Brenda Blethyn. The festival hosts ‌a diverse program at makeshift venues and ​presents a major ​sculptural “Anchor” award. Notable guests​ have appreciated the unique and warm atmosphere created by⁣ the locals.

Memorable moment:​ “When French actor/filmmaker Clémentine Célarié and her producer arrived for the UK premiere of Pierre Et Jeanne, they were a bit shocked to discover their film would be screening at a constructed screen created in a youth⁢ arts project building as⁤ the town had recently lost its cinema. But the​ filmmakers soon warmed to ⁣the environment ⁤and atmosphere‍ that⁤ the locals had created for the ⁢festival. The producer ⁣even donated his airfare back⁣ to the festival on‍ realizing its plight.” — ⁢Sylvie Bolioli.
Submission deadline: ‍February 2025 (TBC)
Contact: https://ramsgateiftvfest.org/contact-us-2/

Sundance Film Festival: London

Festival director: Clare⁢ Binns⁤ (Picturehouse), Kim Yutani,​ Ana Souza, ‌Mike Plante⁤ (programmes), Wendy Mitchell (producer)
Dates of next edition: June 6-9
Paid admissions: Unavailable
Funding:⁣ Sundance Institute, sponsorships, partnerships
Notable guests: ‍Ben Whishaw, Tobias ​Menzies, Emilia Jones
About: Sundance Film Festival: London, marking‌ its 10th anniversary, showcases highlights‌ from the ‌iconic parent festival. ​The festival offers an audience award for all titles and features a⁣ curated program by ⁢Picturehouse Central and the Sundance Institute. Sundance‌ London also includes an industry strand with networking events, pitching panels, ​and masterclasses.

Memorable moment: “The opportunity to present Gregg Araki with a Gregg’s vegan sausage roll was also not missed this year.” – ‌Paul Ridd (formerly Picturehouse)
Submission deadline: N/A
Contact: enquiries@picturehouses.co.uk

Windrush Caribbean Film Festival

Festival ‍director: ⁤Emmanuel Anyiam-Osigwe
Dates of ⁣next edition: June 1-30, 2024
Paid admissions: 350
Funding: BFI, sponsorship
Notable guests: Adjani Salmon, Clint Dyer
About: ‌The Windrush Caribbean Film Festival was established in response ⁣to the ⁢Windrush​ scandal, ‍celebrating the rich storytelling heritage of the Caribbean⁢ community in the UK and⁢ globally. The ⁣festival aims ⁤to​ showcase Black⁢ creatives on screen‌ and highlight the contributions of⁣ the Windrush generation to the ‍UK.

Memorable moment: “Our 2023 edition was also the ⁢75th anniversary of the ⁣Windrush ship‍ arriving at Tilbury Docks. There were many‌ memorable moments including the London premiere of cricket documentary 501 ‍Not ‍Out, which was attended by Brian Lara who‌ flew in from ⁤Trinidad and Tobago during the week of the 1st Ashes test match.” — Emmanuel Anyiam-Osigwe
Submission deadline: ‍December 31, 2023
Contact: ​info@windrushfilmfestival.com

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