Film Festivals in London
A well-known setting for many a box-office hit, the capital of the United Kingdom is also home to some of the world’s finest film festivals. Throughout the whole year there are a number of London film events to suit every type of person from the eclectic German Film Festival in November and the much talked about Gay & Lesbian Film Festival in March and April, to the popular Portobello Film Festival in August. Whatever your interest, you’ll be sure to find a film festival in London that will be both enjoyable and exciting enough to schedule into your diary if you are a resident, or into your holiday programme if you are passing through. Herewith a guide to some of the most popular London film festivals along with a brief introduction to each of them.
The Bird’s Eye Film Festival
This fabulous film festival celebrates women filmmakers throughout the year showcasing some of the best talent from around the globe. Short films as well as features, documentaries and fascinating special events make this distinctive London film festival a must on every film fanatic’s calendar.
The Disability Film Festival
This specialised film festival in London only takes place every second year, but is worth waiting for as it inspires and supports disabled filmmakers to carry on creating and showcasing their work. The screenings offer work by disabled artists in all art forms that contains an individual or collective response to the experience of living in a disabling world.
London Gay & Lesbian Film Festival
Boasting the best in queer cinema, this is one of the most popular film festivals in London. A selection of London films along with films from other cities across the world - are broadcast every year in March and April. At the London Gay & Lesbian Film Festival you’re sure to experience a potent and exotic programme of special events, cutting-edge cinema and intriguing discussion sessions.
Sci-Fi London
To see a top quality sci-fi film in London you will have to make sure you visit in May. The Sci-Fi London film festival offers a great variety of both small and big screen features ideal for die-hard science fiction fans. Come to enjoy the films, get your hands on excellent books, benefit from reviews and news, and participate in forums.
Rushes Short Film Festival
Championing emerging talent, this is one of the coolest short film festivals in London. A platform for both established filmmakers and newcomers, the Rushes Soho Shorts offers the opportunity to showcase creativity and snatch awards in categories such as Documentary, Animation, Music Video and Broadcast Design.
BMF International Film Festival
When it comes to film in London, and more specifically world-class black film, the BMF festival has it all. Apart from introducing emerging UK talent the festival also includes Caribbean, African, Latin, US, hip-hop and faith films. Awards, networking parties and other special events ensure the BMF film festival is a popular September happening.
Portobello Film Festival
The Portobello film festival in London is a popular event attended by thousands of locals and visitors alike. This event was created in 1996 as a reaction to the declining state of the British film industry and aims to provide a forum for new film-makers and give exposure to movies on different formats. Free admission is a huge draw card to this September festival.
German Film Festival
Bringing screen stories from Germany and further afield to the London film scene, this November festival at the Curzon Soho presents an eclectic mix of intelligent and powerful features with imaginative story-telling by both bright new talent and renowned directors.
London Children’s Film Festival
Thousands of children and their families enjoy a world-class film programme in London every November. The line-up at this fairly new but very popular children’s film festival is a mix of screenings, workshops, special events and hands-on film fun. A great festival to keep your young ones entertained!
The Times BFI London Film Festival
Where else but in London can you experience the best in cinema from both British and international filmmakers? The Times BFI film festival has been dominating the London film scene for over 50 years, and will more than likely continue to do so for quite some time. Expect to have the opportunity to choose between 300 or so movies in October and November if you put this event in your diary.
Apart from these major film festivals happening throughout the year in London, there are also film showings specialising in foreign films. The following Curzon Cinemas are good to keep in mind if you are searching for something different: Chelsea Cinema, Curzon Mayfair, Curzon Richmond, Curzon Soho and Renoir Cinema.