Today’s Film Strand & New Wave Screening

Our first strand is Now, In This Very Moment. Watch films that remind of our shared humanity and the simple pleasures that fill life with joy – from a loved one’s voice to a warm embrace. In the afternoon, travel from the depths of despondency to the peaks of hilarity with projects from our talented New Wave filmmakers in Light and Dark: Emotion on Film (NCEM – 13:30).

Must-Attend Masterclasses and Workshops

Head to Yorkshire Museum at 10:30 to hear panellists from acclaimed broadcaster Film4 – The Favourite, Enys men and the highly anticipated Poor Things – explore moving from shorts to features. Later at 12:00 (York Explore), dive into the world of virtual production with DNEG, the studio behind Oppenheimer. Circle back to Yorkshire Museum at 15:00 and join filmmakers in a discussion about working with BBC Film. Please note, pre-booking for masterclasses is advised due to capacity.

Join Us for Networking

Want to practice your pitching skills? Join us from 12:00 at Pitcher & Piano for an essential networking session led by The Pitch Film Fund. It’s a crucial skill in the industry that takes practice to truly master. This event is open to all filmmakers and is the perfect place to spark conversations about your works in progress, whether you’re seeking funding, building your team or searching for a distributor.

Opening Night Ceremony

We launch our 13th edition with a screening of films from the 2023 Official Selection. Curated by Festival Director Cherie Federico, our Opening Night films span a range of themes, topics and genres to give you a taster of what’s to come. Experience the power of cinema as you get ready for a spectacular festival. Welcome drinks from 18:00. Screening starts 19:00.

First-Ever Games Lab

We are the first film festival in the UK to develop a Games Lab. Book onto a session at Spark to play your way through 40 brand-new titles from talented developers, from soothing simulators to action-packed escapades. Want to dig deeper into the impact of games on wider society? Then join us from 12:00-13:00 for the first Guided Play Session led by Investigate.Games.