Enter the World of Highend VFX
Visual effects enhance the storytelling process. The techniques of pre-vis, tech-vis and post-vis help solve creative and technical problems, produce proof of concept for ambitious ideas and help prevent costly errors of re-shoots. Maike Fiene is a Visualisation Supervisor at
Kusp & ITV: Diversity and Inclusion in Screen
In 2025, The Guardian reported that almost a third of creative leaders were privately educated. Calling the Shots, meanwhile, found that 90% of British film productions from 2003 to 2015 didn’t employ a single woman of colour. One thing is
Listening Beyond Sight: Celebrating Five Years of The Listening Pitch
Documentaries have a unique power: they invite us to see the world through someone else’s eyes, to walk in another’s footsteps, and - crucially - to hear the stories that often go unnoticed. At Aesthetica Film Festival, storytelling has always
In Conversation with Sophie Duker
Taskmaster. Live at the Apollo. Mock the Week. Sophie Duker is no stranger to the biggest stages and comedy shows in the world. Her award-nominated Edinburgh show Venus earned five-star reviews and a sold-out Soho Theatre run, whilst in 2023,
In Conversation with Mark Kermode & Jenny Nelson
Mark Kermode is Britain’s most celebrated film reviewer. He’s a BAFTA member, Observer columnist and recipient of the BFI’s Outstanding Contribution to Film Criticism. To his fans, he’s best-known for razor-sharp and impassioned reviews. Thousands tune in weekly for his
In Conversation with The Dodge Brothers
The Dodge Brothers have been playing together for over two decades. The skiffle-blues band creates work that harks back to the days of early rock and roll. Led by Alabama-born guitarist and vocalist Mike Hammond, the ensemble also features celebrated
Activities for Families at Aesthetica
Families are at the heart of Aesthetica Film Festival 2025, taking place from 5–9 November. York will transform into a hub of creativity and imagination, offering children and parents experiences they cannot find anywhere else in the city. From films
Mark Kermode in Conversation at Aesthetica Film Festival
Join Britain’s best-known film critic, Mark Kermode, and award-winning radio producer Jenny Nelson for an unmissable evening of cinematic insight, sharp wit and passionate debate. On 7 November at York Theatre Royal, Kermode and Nelson will come together explore the
An Electric Comedy Night at York Theatre Royal
On 5 November, our new season of evening performances, Beyond the Frame, kicks off with Comedy Night: Sophie Duker & Friends. For one night only, Aesthetica Film Festival and York Theatre Royal are hosting the sharpest, boldest voices in stand-up.
Aesthetica Fringe: York’s Citywide Celebration
Step beyond the cinema screen and into the city. This year, the Aesthetica Fringe transforms York into a hub of creativity, connection and culture. From live comedy and music at York Theatre Royal to exhibitions and art installations across the