Northern Festival of Cinema

Dive into the Heart of Film and Culture at the Northern Festival of Cinema 2027

An IMDb-qualifying film festival celebrating its sixth year in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.

The Northern Festival of Cinema returns in 2027 for its sixth annual edition, bringing filmmakers, artists, industry professionals and passionate audiences together for an unforgettable celebration of independent cinema.

Following a phenomenal sold-out edition, we return to the historic Tyneside Cinema one of the United Kingdom’s most treasured independent cinemas for another inspiring programme of bold storytelling, emerging talent and creative connection.

Experience Cinema Inside a Piece of Film History

Opened in 1937 as the Newcastle News Theatre, Tyneside Cinema is a magnificent Grade II-listed venue known for its beautifully preserved Art Deco heritage.

It is recognised as the United Kingdom’s last surviving newsreel theatre still operating full-time as a cinema. Before television became widely available, audiences visited news theatres to watch news reports, cartoons, short films and stories from around the world.

The cinema was founded by Dixon Scott, the great-uncle of legendary North East filmmakers Sir Ridley Scott and Tony Scott. Hosting the Northern Festival of Cinema within this historic venue allows a new generation of filmmakers to become part of Newcastle’s remarkable cinematic legacy.

More Than a Film Screening

The Northern Festival of Cinema is designed to be an immersive celebration of film, culture and community.

Our carefully curated programme brings together outstanding independent films, documentaries, animations, experimental projects and emerging voices from the North East, across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Audiences can expect:

• Award-winning independent films and exciting new discoveries
• Powerful documentaries and socially relevant stories
• Emerging filmmakers and underrepresented creative voices
• Filmmaker introductions, conversations and guest speakers
• Award presentations celebrating exceptional achievements
• Valuable networking opportunities with filmmakers and industry professionals
• A welcoming, sold-out festival atmosphere inside one of Newcastle’s most iconic cinemas

What Sets Us Apart?
An Eclectic Programme

From intimate dramas and ambitious genre films to thought-provoking documentaries, animation and experimental cinema, our selection celebrates storytelling in all its forms.

Every project is chosen for its creativity, emotional impact and ability to offer audiences a fresh perspective.

Beyond the Screen

The festival is not simply a place to watch films. It is a meeting point for directors, producers, actors, writers, students, film lovers and creative professionals.

Our screenings are complemented by filmmaker conversations, guest appearances, networking opportunities and shared spaces where genuine collaborations can begin.

Community and Inclusion

At the heart of the Northern Festival of Cinema is a belief in cinema’s ability to bring people together.

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that champions diversity, encourages emerging talent and provides a platform for filmmakers and stories that may not always receive the recognition they deserve.

For Filmmakers and Artists

The Northern Festival of Cinema offers more than an opportunity to screen your work.

It is a chance to experience your film with a passionate cinema audience, meet fellow creatives, build professional relationships and become part of a growing international filmmaking community.

As an IMDb-qualifying festival, our official award winners may be eligible to have their achievements recognised through the festival’s IMDb event listing, subject to IMDb’s applicable listing requirements.

Whether you are an established filmmaker or presenting your first project, we want the festival to be a place where your work is celebrated, discussed and remembered.

For Film Lovers

Prepare to discover films you may not experience anywhere else.

Share the excitement of a live audience, meet the people behind the films and experience the laughter, emotion and energy that can only be created when powerful stories are watched together on the big screen.

Every film is an invitation to discover a new voice, enter a different world and experience cinema from an entirely new perspective.

Join Us in 2027

Celebrate six years of independent cinema, creativity and community with us at the historic Tyneside Cinema.

Following our previous sold-out festival, early booking is strongly recommended once tickets become available.

Programme announcements, filmmaker selections, guest information and ticket details will be revealed through our official social media platforms.

Follow @NFOCINEMA for the latest updates.

Filmmakers are invited to submit their work and become part of the Northern Festival of Cinema 2027 a celebration of cinema’s limitless creativity, cultural power and ability to connect us all.