Day Two is here! A big thank you to those who took part in our opening day events yesterday. We are looking forward to another day of bold masterclasses, the opening of the UNESCO EXPO, film screenings, and networking opportunities for you to meet and connect with creatives.

Today’s Spotlight Genre: Drama

Immerse yourself in compelling narratives filled with emotion and complex characters – you might even spot some famous faces on screen. These stories take audiences on journeys through characters’ inner conflicts, that relate to identity, spirituality, relationships, growing up and mental health. Drama is one of many genres represented in this year’s Official Selection. A valid festival pass is required. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Top Masterclasses

This morning, step inside one of the UK’s most respected production companies, Neal Street Productions. Then, head on over to York Theatre Royal Mainhouse at 13:00 to join BBC Film and gain insights from the stars of tomorrow. Today’s stellar programme also includes talks from the likes of Cinesite, Sky, Ubisoft and Beggars Group – as well as a directing masterclass with Mark Jenkin. End your day by having the opportunity to listen to a conversation with our BAFTA, BIFA and Emmy-Winning alumni, as they share their distinctive journeys and different pieces of advice.

Please note, pre-booking for masterclasses is essential due to capacity.

Workshop: How to Attract Top Actors To Your Short or Feature Project

Spark | 11:30-12:30

Whether you are trying to attract established, high-calibre acting talent to a short-form project, or wondering how the casting playbook changes when scaling up from a short to a feature film, this essential workshop has the answers that you are looking for. Hosted by Spotlight and led by Sam Claypole, a Casting Director with credits including The Infernal Machine, starring Guy Pearce, and the award-winning and BAFTA nominated BBC comedy series Smoggie Queens, this session offers invaluable, real-world insights that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Daily Networking: Story Exchange – Ideas in Motion

York Theatre Royal Upper Foyer | 12:00-13:30

Story Exchange: Ideas in Motion is as an open space for conversation around storytelling, lead by Film Hub North, scripts, and early-stage concepts. Whether you’re developing a feature, shaping short, or exploring a new idea, we invite you to meet others working with story in all its forms and stages. There are no panels or formal structure – just a chance to talk through ideas, share creative interests and meet potential collaborators.

Roundtable: Careers in Interactive Media

Spark | 14:30-15:30

Discover the endless creative possibilities of interactive media in this roundtable about the gaming industry. This session will be led by Adonis Emmanuel (Rocksteady Games), as well as representatives from Investigate.Games and our Official Selection developers. Hear how these creatives began their distinctive journeys, what skills studios are seeking from emerging talent, and how you can begin to navigate a path into this fast-evolving field. With a space designed to ask your own questions, you’ll gain valuable insight into one of the most compelling art forms of our time.

Reignite XVII: Culture as Infrastructure, Stories as Power

City Screen | 18:00-21:00

Reignite XVII brings together the UK’s UNESCO Creative Cities in York for a landmark gathering at the intersection of climate, attention, and narrative power. As cities face accelerating environmental and digital disruption, this year’s theme asks a defining question: can culture function as infrastructure in a rapidly changing world? After the panels and discussions we will then make our way on over to the UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO at the De Grey Rooms for drinks and networking, and to meet different businesses operating across the creative sector.

Please note, a separate ticket is required.

UNESCO EXPO

De Grey Rooms | 5 & 6 November | 09:00-21:00

This is your chance to experience cutting-edge work, forge strategic partnerships and meet the future creators making waves. The UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO showcases the exceptional work being delivered by leading media arts and creative businesses based in the region, with a global reach. There are 40 businesses to meet; they cover a range of disciplines, virtual production, VFX, film & TV, interactive design, gaming, XR and more.

VR & Games Happy Hour

Thors Tipi | 17:00-18:00

The VR and Games Happy Hour is a networking event for professionals working in virtual reality, gaming and immersive technologies. Designed as a hub for innovation and collaboration, it brings industry leaders and creatives to explore the evolving landscape of interactive entertainment. This event offers space to exchange ideas, spark collaborations, and discuss what’s next. A complimentary welcome drink is available upon arrival.

Podcasting Lounge

City Screen Basement

4-7 November 10:00-21:30 | 8 November 10:00-18:30

Discover the UK’s first dedicated Podcasting Lounge at Aesthetica Film Festival – an innovative space where audio storytelling takes centre stage. Curated to spotlight dynamic voices in film, art, tech and culture, this lounge offers the chance to pause and take time out to well and truly listen. It’s a new chapter in how stories are shared and heard. One-hour slots run across each day. Free with a valid pass; no booking is required.

Social Event: Meet The Music Industry

House of Trembling Madness | 20:00-21:00

The worlds of film, games, XR and music increasingly intersect, and exciting opportunities emerge when we connect the dots. Beggars Group invites you to a Meet the Music Industry takeover for drinks and collaboration, to explore shared opportunities and spark new creative partnerships.