Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) | 9 - 12th September 2026 | London

Due to overwhelming demand and an extraordinary level of interest from some truly exceptional Jury members, we are thrilled to announce that CIFF has moved to September. The new dates will allow us to accommodate a bigger, bolder programme, welcome a larger audience and confirm a stellar Jury that we simply couldn't say no to. We can't wait to share more very soon!

Launched in collaboration between DREAMTOWN Entertainment, Karma Sanctum Soho, and Goldfinch—the Academy Award and BAFTA-winning production company—CIFF will showcase the best of cinema from around the world through carefully curated international partnerships and programs. Audiences can expect a stellar lineup of innovative films, from major premieres to features by emerging filmmakers, along with thought-provoking documentaries and captivating shorts.

At the heart of CIFF is a mission to give back to the film community. The festival proudly introduces the Goldfinch Academy Bursary, a charitable initiative designed to assist some of the most deserving new voices in filmmaking, providing them with the tools and resources needed to bring their creative visions to life. Additionally, CIFF has a focus on music, score and soundtrack and is honoured to be supporting Teenage Cancer Trust and will make a donation to this vital cause, underscoring its commitment to making a meaningful impact.

Submit your film now to be part of this unique celebration of cinema and creativity!

Awards & Prizes

FEATURE LENGTH FILMS / SHORT FILMS
(Entry qualifies you to be in the running for any of the below awards!)

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Actor/Actress
Best Cinematography
Best Screenplay
Best International Film
Dreamtown Innovation Award
Golden Sanctum Award (Sanctum’s Jury pick from entire submissions)

TEENAGE CANCER TRUST AWARD
The TCT Award for Outstanding Achievements in Music/Score and Culture

THE GOLDFINCH ACADEMY CHARITY BURSARY
Award and cash prize to support most deserving filmmaker

Rules & Terms

1. Filmmakers may submit multiple projects - however, each submission must be accompanied by a separate submission form and fee.

2.Cine International Film Festival welcomes submissions in all forms and genres, embracing diversity in storytelling.

3. Submission fees are non-refundable.

4. Films produced in any year are eligible for submission—there are no restrictions based on the production date.

5. We accept submissions from filmmakers worldwide.

6. Quality is paramount: Submissions must meet broadcast standards, including clean visuals (no watermarks) and smooth image quality.

7. Selected films must provide English subtitles for public screenings if the original language is not English.

8. The selection of a work guarantees its evaluation by the jury for the various awards of CIFF, although it does not necessarily ensure its screening at the annual public event.

9. All decisions made by the CIFF selection committee and jury are final and non-negotiable.

10. Submission statuses will be communicated through our designated submission platforms. Filmmakers are responsible for monitoring their project’s status.

11. CIFF does not provide feedback on submitted films or the jury’s deliberations.

12. The Festival reserves the right to make adjustments to regulations or scheduling as necessary.

13. Submitted materials, including film stills and descriptions, may be used for promotional purposes on the Festival's website or social media channels.

14. Filmmakers certify they hold full rights to their submitted works and agree to indemnify the Festival from any claims, legal disputes, or expenses resulting from their participation.

15. By submitting, you accept the entirety of these regulations. The organizing committee will deliberate on any disputes or issues not covered in these terms
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Benjamin Smith

    We were so honoured that our film ‘Learners’ was selected to screen as part of the inaugural Cine International Film Festival. Our writer Emer Heatley was able to attend in person and she was so struck by the energy and enthusiasm for indie filmmaking which radiated from the event. Karma Sanctum was a fantastic base for the festival and the Dreamtown & Goldfinch team did an incredible job to curate an exciting and inclusive lineup of fantastic films - we can’t wait for next year’s festival!

    September 2025
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  • Ornella Hawthorn Gardez

    We were honoured to be selected and nominated for the KODAK Shot on Film award at Cine International Film Festival with our film Cherry B. Cine is such a vital special film festival, and for its first year, it exceeded everyone's expectations! Cine is all about the filmmakers, the indie film industry, and the community, encouraging more productions. A number of our team attended, and the prices were incredibly reasonable, and their support of the Teenage Cancer Trust was inspiring. It's already been a week, and many of us are still glowing from having such an incredible time! Massive thanks to Ben, Kirsty, Tamer and the people at Dreamtown, Goldfinch and Karma Sanctum Hotel. This is a festival to watch, and I look forward to its second year!!

    May 2025
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  • Bradley Peake

    An amazing new festival in London, one to only get bigger and bigger. Every member of CIFF went above and beyond every day, and it was an honour to screen my film there. CIFF gave opportunities to new and established filmmakers alike, whilst throwing in the best glitz and glam along the way.

    May 2025
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  • Sophie von Rheden

    We were honored to be selected with our short film CIALT *Caught In A Love Trap* in the short film category •Second Chances• Our team feels humbled to have held our UK Premiere in a cool, familiar atmosphere in the heart of SOHO. The selection of all films was outstanding, as were the prices. We were happy to support the Teenage Cancer Trust with our tickets. I congratulate the organiser of Dreamtownfilm, Ben Charles Edward, and Kirsty Bell, CEO of GoldfinchUK, on their first Indie Film Festival. We thank the team for welcoming us so warmly.

    May 2025
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  • zara balfour

    CIFF was one of the most filmmaker-focused festivals I’ve attended. They have a real commitment to supporting independent film, had curated an impressive industry jury, the panel events were informative, and the overall vibe was like a Cannes for indies. I enjoyed screening my film, Children of the Snow Land, immensely, as well as our Q&A and the awards ceremony that followed. I highly recommend entering this wonderful film festival.

    May 2025
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