5 Craft Masterclasses
Aesthetica’s Industry Programme brings together an inspiring line-up of masterclasses designed to give filmmakers practical insight, creative inspiration and valuable advice for developing their careers. Taking place throughout this year’s festival, the sessions offer an opportunity to hear directly from
This Is the Place: Opening Night at Aesthetica Film Festival
For five days, York becomes a meeting point for filmmakers, audiences and ideas from around the world.
10 Things to Look Forward to Aesthetica Film Festival
Tickets and passes for Aesthetica Film Festival 2026 are available. Join us in York from 4-8 November. This year’s jam-packed programme features 300 screenings, industry masterclasses, Games & VR Labs, a Podcasting Lounge, New Music Stage, networking sessions, socials
Music Cities Convention 2026
Last year, Aesthetica Film Festival broke new ground. The launch of the inaugural New Music Stage was a UK first, placing live performance within the festival’s expansive creative programme. The annual showcase brings together 10 breakthrough acts, from indie and
2026 Listening Pitch Winners Announced
Now in its sixth year, the Listening Pitch – commissioned by Aesthetica Film Festival and Audible – continues to assert itself as a vital platform for ambitious, sound-led documentary work. What has become clear over time is that this is
New Music Stage Alumni: Meet Daisy Gill
Daisy Gill is a singer-songwriter from Liverpool, whose signature blend of retro pop fuses infectious vintage sounds with contemporary influences. In 2023, her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence earned a rare four-chair turn on The Voice UK. Since then, she’s
New Music Stage Alumni: Meet Kengo
“It’s deeper than lyrics.” Kengo is songwriter and vocalist who channels honesty and lived experience into music that bridges emotion and spirit. These tracks are rich in lyrical depth and melodic sensitivity, speaking about connection, healing and resilience. Kengo draws
The Power of Listening: How Documentary Shapes Storytelling
In an era dominated by constant scroll and shrinking attention spans, documentary has emerged as one of the most vital languages in contemporary culture. From the political urgency of Navalny to the cultural resonance of Beckham and the environmental meditation of David Attenborough: A Life
New Music Stage Alumni: Meet Ewan Sim
In 2025, we launched the inaugural New Music Stage. The full-day event, presented in collaboration with TALENTBANQ, Caffé Nero and Imagesound, showcased 10 breakthrough acts at York Theatre Royal. The line-up spanned transcendent vocals, razor-sharp rap, retro-pop anthems, and art-pop
Aesthetica 2025: BAFTA-Longlisted Films
We’re delighted to share that several films from our Official Selection have been longlisted for this year’s BAFTAs. This exciting milestone speaks to the exceptional talent and creative ambition showcased at Aesthetica Film Festival. The four films, all screened at