£2,500 in CASH PRIZES up for grabs for Emerging Talent!

🌟 Get Ready for a Cinematic Renaissance of independent film! Join New Renaissance London #9

In the vibrant heart of London, where diversity and innovation intertwine, we proudly present the 9th edition of New Renaissance London. Brace yourself for a week in September, as we unleash a cinematic extravaganza featuring a handpicked selection of approximately 100 outstanding independent films.

Our program is a treasure trove of narrative shorts, captivating features, thought-provoking documentaries, mesmerising animations, and soul-stirring dance and music videos. Immerse yourself in a world where artistry knows no bounds, where storytelling reigns supreme.

🎬 Prepare to be inspired, educated, and connected!

Alongside the festival, we invite you to participate in an array of events and opportunities that will:

🖋️ Unleash Your Writing Talent: Screenwriting Competition
🎓 Unlock the Secrets: Masterclasses by Film Industry Experts
🗣️ Engage and Enlighten: Filmmaker's Panel Discussion
🎙️ Uncover the Stories: Filmmaker Q&A Sessions
🤝 Forge Connections: Networking Parties and Opportunities

✨ Embrace the New Renaissance London Experience

At New Renaissance London, we are genuinely passionate about showcasing the finest independent cinema of our time. Despite our relatively small size, each year many gems are to be found among the collection of short and feature films in the programme.

Our aim is to create an environment that radiates warmth, inclusivity, and true dignity, ensuring that every attendee feels valued and inspired. Many filmmakers and actors are traditionally present, and a lot of productive networking takes place that has led to new artistic collaborations.

Our commitment to excellence has earned us accolades, including being hailed as "One of the UK's top film festivals" (London METRO, O1.08.16) and a top 100 spot on FilmFreeway's list of best reviewed festivals 8 years running. We've also caught the attention of prestigious publications such as Vogue, GQ, and iD magazine, further solidifying our reputation. As a registered IMDB film festival, we are proud to foster a community of talented filmmakers.

💰 £2,500 CASH PRIZES Await Emerging Talent!

Are you a talented debut director or an early-stage filmmaker ready to make your mark on the industry? New Renaissance London has a special category just for you! Sponsored by Katie Partridge, CEO of the Saphira Group, we're empowering the next generation of filmmakers/artists. Previous winners and nominees have gone onto win major international prizes or have directed their first feature film.

🏆 First Flights Young Talent Film Award

Calling All Gen Z Filmmakers! The winner of this prestigious award will soar to new heights! Prepare for a one-on-one consultancy session at the renowned Goldfinch studios, alongside one of their executive producers. First Flights, famous for their recent BAFTA and Oscar-winning short film "An Irish Goodbye", will present this extraordinary opportunity at the New Renaissance Award Ceremony, held at the elegant Courthouse Hotel on Sunday, October 1.

✨ Lights, camera, accolades!

New Renaissance London have set the stage for cinematic greatness, introducing groundbreaking films that have gone on to claim the ultimate honour: the coveted Oscar.

🏆 "The Silent Child" (2017): From our screens to the Academy Awards stage, this powerful gem secured the Oscar in 2018, leaving audiences captivated by its profound story about a young deaf girl.

Our festival has become a springboard for success, propelling exceptional films into the spotlight. Here are just a few remarkable examples that got distribution:

🌟 "Kindling" (2023)
🌟 "All is Vanity" (2023)
🌟 "A Bird Flew" (2022)
🌟 "Avi" (2022)
🌟 "Roy" (2022)
🌟 "A Living Dog" (2021)
🌟 "Into The Mirror" (2019)
🌟 "You Go To My Head" (2019)
🌟 "Phantompain" (2018)

These titles stand as a testament to the calibre of films and emerging talent we champion.

🎥 Unveiling Cinematic Gems: Artistic Visionaries and Inspirational Tales

Film is an extraordinary canvas, and at NRFF, we wholeheartedly embrace the power of this medium to uplift and inspire. Our mission is to be a nurturing force for independent artists and storytellers, championing their unique perspectives and creative endeavours. We celebrate the beauty of experimental work, the depth of emotional drama, the rhythm of music and dance, and the unbounded potential of emerging talent.

We foster an international community of visionary storytellers, connected by their shared passion for crafting narratives that transcend boundaries. We stray from fleeting trends and divisive politics, instead seeking out stories that are genuinely imaginative, emotionally resonant, and life-affirming. At the heart of our mission lies an unwavering dedication to the power of storytelling itself.

Curating a film festival is an intricate art form, one that we take seriously and pour our hearts into. Every year, we strive to assemble a program that surpasses expectations, meticulously selecting works that embody our vision.

Please read our Rules & Terms before making your submission.

🌟 The Time is Now: Embrace the Renaissance!

Submissions for 2023 will close in August. The festival will take place in mid to late September 2024, and all contestants will be notified at least 4-6 weeks prior to the event.

🌟 Celebrating New Renaissance Alumni

Our festival has been graced by an illustrious lineup of luminaries, who have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Join us as we proudly present the extraordinary alumni of New Renaissance, a constellation of talent that includes:

🏆 The Dynamic Duo: Oscar-Winning Chris Overton and Rachel Shenton (The Silent Child)
🌟 Hollywood Royalty: Academy Award Winner Whoopi Goldberg (Palace)
🏆 BAFTA and Emmy Triumph: Dazzling Actress Anna Friel (The Sea)
🌟 Visionary Director: Brady Hood (Sweet Maddie Stone)
🏆 Master of Storytelling: Oscar-Winning Writer/Director James Lucas (Paint The Dragon's Eyes)
🌟 Radiant Star: BAFTA-Winning Actress Sophia Myles (All That Glitters)
🏆 Unforgettable Performer: BAFTA-Winning Actor George MacKay (Infinite)
🌟 Melodies of Genius: Ivor Novello-Winning Musician Gary Kemp (InSolo)
🌟 Music, Stage and Screen Legend: Toyah Willcox (Weightless)
🏆Radiant Star: BAFTA-Winning Actress Sophia Myles (All That Glitters)
🏆 Emmy-winning Documentarian: BAFTA-Winning Zoe Dobson (The Cunning Man)
🌟 Animation Extraordinaire: BAFTA-Winning Animator Catriona Black (You Are At The Bottom Of My Mind)
🌟 Captivating: Emmy-winning Actress Sarah Snook (The Ravens)
🏆 Stellar Talent: Emmy-Winning Actress Tatiana Maslany (Souls of Totality)
🌟 Master of Visuals: Oscar-Nominated Cinematographer Jarin Blaschke (A Million Eyes)
🏆 Directorial Brilliance: BAFTA-Nominated Shona Auerbach (Rudy)
🌟 Mesmerising Performer: Actor Tom Cullen (Souls of Totality)
🏆 Rising Star: BAFTA-Nominated Actress Celine Buckens (Prangover)
🌟 The Enigmatic Star of TV and Cinema: Silent Witness Actress Emilia Fox (The Ghost)
🏆 Chicago Charmer: Actor Darren Day (Rudy)
🌟 Master of Illusion: Rag Doll Actor Ali Cook (The Cunning Man)
🏆 Stage Sensation: Olivier Award-Nominated Actress Amy Lennox (Near)
🌟 Student Visionaries: Oscar-Winning Tristan Holmes (The Fragile King) and Ariel Heller (Mammoth)

These remarkable individuals and more have graced our festival, captivating audiences and leaving an indelible imprint on the world of cinema.

🎬 Join the Legacy: New Renaissance Awaits You

Step into the world of New Renaissance, where dreams are realised, talents are nurtured, and legends are born. New Renaissance welcomes you with open arms and invites you to be part of the legacy. 🎉🎥🌟

📜 Our Commitment to Transparency: Submission Fee Policy

At New Renaissance, we understand the financial challenges that filmmakers often face. We recognise the importance of supporting artists on their creative journey, but as a self-funding festival, we must maintain a sustainable approach. Regrettably, we are unable to waive the submission fee.

🌐 Stay Connected: Join Our Mailing List and Social Media Community

We don't want you to miss a beat! Stay in the loop with the latest updates, exciting announcements, and insider insights by joining our mailing list. Be the first to know about upcoming events, submission deadlines, and exclusive opportunities that can elevate your filmmaking aspirations.

Follow us on social media, where we share captivating posts, thought-provoking content, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the world of New Renaissance.

🌟 The Spotlight Awaits: A Plethora of Awards

From the coveted Best Film of Festival to the thought-provoking Humanity Award, we have a plethora of accolades waiting to celebrate the brilliance of visionary filmmakers and screenwriters like you. Take a glimpse at some of our esteemed awards:

✨ Best Feature Film
✨ Best Emerging Talent Award
✨ Best International Short
✨ Best UK Short
✨ Best Animation Short
✨ Best Documentary
✨ Best Music Video
✨ Best Dance Film
✨ Best Young Talent Short
✨ Best 3 Minute Short
✨ Official Selection Laurel
✨ Best Director
✨ Best Actor
✨ Best Actress
✨ Best Cinematography
✨ Best Art Film
✨ Best Music Score
✨ Best Feature Screenplay
✨ Best Short Screenplay
✨ Best 3 Minute Screenplay
✨ Best Short Screenplay written by Young Talent.
...and many more!

Don't miss your opportunity to be recognised among the best and brightest. Finalists and winners will be granted the honour they deserve!

Your journey to success starts here. Join us at New Renaissance and let your creativity soar to new heights. 🎥🌟💫

(1) New Renaissance Film Festival is hereby granted the right to utilise an excerpt from any film submitted and accepted for exhibition at the Festival for promotional purposes. (2) The individual or corporation submitting the film hereby warrants that it is authorised to commit the film for screening, and understands and accepts these requirements and regulations.
(3) All entries should be in English or with English subtitles.
(4) All scripts must be original screenplays, for which the applicant(s) hold the copyright. Where the screenplay is based on another piece of work it is the responsibility of the screenwriter to obtain written permission/copyright clearances from the original author or publisher.
(5) The judges reserve the right not to enter into any correspondence after the announcement of the winner.
(6) To qualify for a cash prize the winner must satisfy all the terms of their category, and attend the festival in person to receive the award.
(7) The judges reserve the right not to award a cash prize if there is no clear winner in the category, the winner is not in attendance at the festival, or if the sponsor cannot honour their financial pledge. The Applicant shall hold harmless New Renaissance Film Festival from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses which may be incurred in such circumstances.
(8) If award winners are not in attendance the festival will not ship out trophies or certificates after the event.
(9) The applicant shall indemnify and hold harmless New Renaissance Film Festival from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney’s fees and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, cash prizes advertised, credits, publicity, screening, and loss of or damage to the screening videos entered.
(10) We know all too well that most filmmakers have to work with a tight budget. Unfortunately however, WE CANNOT WAIVE THE SUBMISSION FEE.
(11) Due to Covid we may have to replace the live screenings with an online festival. We will try to avoid this if possible. The festival will organise this to its best abilites, but the festival cannot be held accountable for any technical difficulties that may occur during or as a result of the online screening.
(12) PLEASE NOTE THAT SUBMISSION FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE, DEADLINES, PROGRAMS, VENUES AND DATES MAY CHANGE. ALL RESPONSES TO FILMMAKERS WILL BE BY EMAIL.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Nicole Sarah Fry

    A wonderful film festival that was great to attend. The films were shown in a lovely cinema and the awards night was fun and inspiring. This is a festival that really cares about independent filmmakers and their projects. Would love to attend again next year.

    October 2023
  • Ingela Ogard

    Great festival and lovely people, both attending and organizing!
    Very professional and friendly.
    Thank you Jan & Massi and for the Best Fantasy Film nomination and Honorable Mention for our film "A REAL ADVENTURE" - we are over the moon :)

    October 2023
  • Margaret Kane-Rowe

    A great festival. Great communication with filmmakers and a brilliant selection of short films, online and in-person. Highly recommend.

    October 2023
  • A small and artfully curated festival full of warmth and community. Jan and Massi's wholehearted love for the films they select and the event they have created can be felt in every nook. A pleasure to have been a part of.

    October 2023
  • Darryl Foster

    It is a fantastic film festival that genuinely supports ad independent filmmaking. During the awards ceremony, one particular director had been there several years prior with a short film and was now returning with a feature film. Many of these returnee filmmakers were there on the awards ceremony night, so it's great that the New Renaissance Film Festival has played a big part in filmmakers' careers and journeys. Plus, Jan and Massi are excellent festival organisers! I highly recommend it.

    October 2023