#ASFF2024 has officially begun! We are kicking off the festival with a roundup of today’s top 10 events taking place across York. Discover more in the Programme!

Today’s Film Strand:
In the Here and Now

From animation to thriller, today’s selection of shorts are unified by the richness of the human experience. They are about relishing the small joys that bring happiness to each day: connecting with a stranger, the warmth of a friend’s smile or the sound of a loved one’s voice. This is a call to appreciate the beauty in every moment. 

Insight: Top Masterclasses

Ridley Scott Associates. Film4. BBC Film. Today’s lineup of talks are led by professionals from leading organisations. At noon, be part of the buzzing atmosphere of our fully booked RSA masterclass at Yorkshire Museum and then head next door to York Explore for our Gaming for Good masterclass with the Head of BAFTA Games and the CEO of Emmy-nominated developer Singer Studios. Circle back to the Museum, where BBC speakers discuss the future of shorts.

Social: Opening Night Ceremony

City Screen | 18:00-21:00

We launch our 14th edition with a special screening of six thought-provoking and inspiring works by filmmakers from the 2024 Official Selection. Curated by Festival Director, Cherie Federico, our Opening Night introduces audiences to the breadth of this year’s programme with a special screening that offers you a test of what’s to come.

Social: Women in Screen Happy Hour

Yorkshire Museum | 17:15-18:15

The social event is a celebration that recognises and promotes the achievements of women across the Film, TV, Games and XR industries. It brings together cinematographers, directors, producers, developers and writers to network. This event is for all woman-identifying people at the festival. Drinks are first come, first served. 

Immersive: The VR Lab 

The Hospitium | 16:30-20:30

Experience the future of film. For the seventh year, we present our 360 Cinema and Immersive Experiences Lab, realised in partnership with London College of Communication. This is the place to try on a headset and be transported into a different story, time or place. Head to The Hospitium and discover the power of immersive storytelling.

Immersive: The Games Lab

The Hospitium | 16:30-21:30

Games are an important part of screen culture and, here at the Aesthetica Short Film Festival, we are championing developers and designers through our Games Lab. Play a vast range of outstanding independent titles and discover your next favourite adventure game, platformer or RPG. Free with pass and registration recommended.

Networking: The Art of
Conversation Refining Your Pitch

Pitcher & Piano | 12:00-13:30

Pitching is key. How you describe your film is important, whether you’re seeking funding, looking to build your team or searching for a distributor. A pitch that sells is one that summarises a film into its core subject matter so that listeners are quickly engaged and intrigued. This is the place to strike up a conversation and test your skills.

Fringe: Sound Installation
Where Are You Really From?

City Screen | 10:00-21:00

The common question, “Where are you really from?” does not have a simple answer. Sound artist and musician, Vendela Haakonsen, conducted eight interviews with individuals from diverse backgrounds to uncover what the question is actually seeking to answer. Their personal experiences explore the profound impact of being “othered.”

Workshop: Behind the Lens
Official Selection Filmmakers in Focus

Pitcher & Piano | 14:00-15:30

Join us for a must-attend roundtable discussion where our Official Selection filmmakers come together to share the challenges and inspirations behind their creative work. This workshop session, hosted by Martin Hall (YSJU), offers everyone attending a chance to explore the film industry, and chat about ideas with fellow creators. 

Fringe: Film Poster Exhibition

City Screen | 10:00-23:00

The art behind any film is often incredible and film posters have a long history, dating back to the 1895 French short L’Arroseur Arrosé. We are thrilled to celebrate their beauty and creativity at this year’s Film Poster Exhibition, which displays 40 amazing pieces from our Official Selection. Show us your faves with #ASFF2024FilmPosters.

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Be part of Aesthetica Short Film Festival 2024, from Wednesday 6 November until Sunday 10 November. Tickets and Passes On Sale! Get Yours Today: asff.co.uk | Browse the Programme

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