Thurrock International Film Festival is part of the Thurrock Screen Culture Festival (August–October since 2018).

-Our Sponsors and Partners
Film Hub South East, BFI FAN The National Lottery
Film Thurrock, Thurrock Screen Cultures Festival, Purfleet Heritage & Military Centre

-About Us
Thurrock International Film Festival is a bold celebration of cinema on the edge of the Thames, where historic Tilbury Fort stands guard. Rooted in Essex and open to the world, we champion fearless storytelling, independent voices, and films that defy expectation. From emerging local talent to visionary international filmmakers, TIFF is where stories find their audience and fresh perspectives take the spotlight.

-Who We’re Looking For
We welcome work by and for underrepresented communities—especially those facing barriers due to race, class, disability, gender identity, sexuality, and geography.

At TIFF, we’re drawn to stories that reflect the world in all its complexity—films that explore identity, challenge assumptions, or simply show us something we haven’t seen before. Whether you're a first-time filmmaker or a seasoned storyteller, if your work brings a fresh perspective, we want to see it.

-Awards Ceremony
We celebrate our filmmakers' achievements with a special ceremony at the close of the season.

BEST FILM
BEST EXPERIMENTAL FILM
BEST DOCUMENTARY
BEST ANIMATION
BEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM
BEST UK SHORT FILM
BEST STUDENT SHORT FILM
BEST NON-COMMISSIONED SCREENPLAY (FEATURE)
BEST NON-COMMISSIONED SCREENPLAY (SHORT)
BEST DIRECTOR
BEST SCREENPLAY
BEST LEADING PERFORMANCE IN DRAMA
BEST LEADING PERFORMANCE IN COMEDY
BEST SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN DRAMA
BEST SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN COMEDY
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
BEST EDITING
BEST SOUND
BEST ORIGINAL SCORE
BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN
BEST COSTUME DESIGN

-Eligibility
All non-English language films must include English subtitles.
Films must have been completed within the past two years.

-Submission Guidelines
A secured online screener must be provided and remain valid until October 19, 2025 (the end of the festival).
Please note: Submission fees are non-refundable, including in cases of withdrawal.

-Accepted Categories
Short Film: 3 to 30 minutes
Feature Film: 60 to 240 minutes
Experimental Film: 40 to 180 minutes
Documentary: 40 to 180 minutes
Animation: 40 to 180 minutes
Non-Commissioned Screenplay (Feature): Under 130 pages
Non-Commissioned Screenplay (Short): Under 40 pages

Thurrock Screen Culture Festival is produced by AAAHA — Anglo Asiatic Arts and Heritage Alliance | Registered No. 9989622 | UK

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Participating in the Thurrock Screen Culture Festival was a fantastic experience. Although we couldn’t attend due to scheduling conflicts, we were thoroughly impressed by the festival’s exceptional support and dedication to both the films and the filmmakers. Their professionalism truly stood out.

    November 2024