The Forward Film & Television Festival is a brand new celebration of established, new and emerging on screen international talent.

Set within Digbeth - the cultural and creative centre of Birmingham (U.K.), home to Steven Knights Loc Film Studios, The Screen & Film School and The Mockingbird Independent Cinema; The Forward Film & Television Festival is the perfect place to Put Your Films Forward.

OUR FIRST EVENT WILL RUN FROM THE 17th to the 20th JULY 2025.

FREE TO ATTEND SCREENINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS including industry Q&A's and networking events hosted by Reel Brum, the premiere networking organisation for the Creative Community in the West Midlands.
-An annual awards ceremony.
-Pre-awards online screenings and exclusive content.
-Exclusive screenings of winning films post-awards.
-Local business involvement, including Food, Drink, Entertainment and more.
-Great transport links, parking and accommodation options.

The festival will invite entries across a broad spectrum of categories at varied and affordable price points, with screenings and exclusive events taking place in the summer, creating a truly accessible event, in one of the most culturally diverse, creative and welcoming cities in Europe.

Put Your Films Forward.

Alongside the traditional Laurels and Trophies, The Forward Film & Television Festival will award prizes and developmental support in various categories.

Awards will include:
BEST FILM (Feature and Short)
BEST T.V. EPISODE/PILOT
GENRE AWARDS (Horror & Comedy)
BEST SCREENPLAY (Feature, Short & T.V.)
BEST MAKE UP & SFX
BEST MUSIC/SCORE
BEST MUSIC VIDEO
BEST ANIMATION
BEST DOCUMENTARY
Every film submitted automatically qualifies for:
Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Lead Actor, Best Supporting Actor, Best Young Actor and Best International Film categories.

For first time filmmakers, there is a ONE TO WATCH award, celebrating first time and emerging filmmakers.
There will also be West Midlands specific awards, showcasing, celebrating and helping push regional talent.

Put Your Films Forward.

All materials submitted should be the artists own work and whomever is making submissions must have the permissions to do so.
No project completed more than 2 years prior to the date of the festival event date will be considered.

(See the full category list for detailed terms).