Celebrating 15 Years .
Aesthetica is the destination for independent cinema. From 5-9 November 2025, we will welcome filmmakers, games developers and VR experts from around the world to the 15th anniversary edition of the festival, both in-person in York and online. The programme will comprise screenings, industry masterclasses, networking sessions, pitching opportunities and much more. Save the date.
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Watch Trailer .
Screen at Aesthetica .
Great films, games and VR can be transformative. We focus on the topics that are the most meaningful, pressing and present in our world and welcome a diversity of subject matter and styles. We accept shorts across multiple genres: Animation, Artists’ Film, Comedy, Dance, Drama, Experimental, Fashion, Music Video and Thriller. Submissions are now closed for our 15th anniversary edition.
Submissions Now Closed
Celebrating 15 Years .
Film Library .
Discover the best in independent cinema from our Official Selection alumni. Our online film library showcases a diverse selection of shorts from 10 years of Aesthetica Film Festival: Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Animation, Thriller, Music Video, Dance.
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Relive the Highlights .
Festival Archive .
The first edition of Aesthetica Film Festival took place in 2011. Browse our archives to explore a decade of independent cinema. Meet key speakers through years, as well as exciting updates from our alumni: rising stars of the future.
Visit the Archive
