Aesthetica Film Festival 2021
The Aesthetica Short Film Festival (ASFF) is BAFTA-Qualifying and takes place in York, UK. It is one of the UK’s largest and most revered film events. We love independent film. It is at the heart of everything that we do. Our programming and curation are innovative and expansive. We believe that great film is transformative, and creativity should be shared.
In 2021, the Aesthetica Film Festival took place in-person, in the centre of York, and continues virtually through our unique online platform. Cinema screenings and a selection of live events took place 2-7 November, across multiple venues. The expansive programme featured over 300 films as well as over 50 industry events, welcoming some of the industry’s most prominent and respected practitioners.
World Class Filmmaking

Innovative Curation
The 11th annual edition of ASFF featured an expansive curated programme of film content spanning 12 genres of short film, 360 and features.

Discover New Cinema
In 2021 we showcased an exciting and eclectic programme of film. Discover new cinema until 30 November with our unique virtual platform.

ASFF 2021 Award Winners
Every film screened in the ASFF Official Selection was in the running for a number of festival awards, from Best in Category to Best of Festival.

Fresh Perspectives
Presented by leading organisations, these specially curated guest programmes explore the breadth of cinema, offering a new way of looking.

Experience Cinema Differently
The Screen School VR and Interactive Media Labs offered viewers the opportunity to experience film in 360 alongside discussions exploring the future.

New Talent
Celebrating the next generation, our New Wave screenings celebrating the freshest filmmaking talent from across the UK.