The London Short Film Festival 2025 is gearing up to take over the capital once again with its trademark blend of cinematic innovation, fresh talent, and cultural impact. As one of the UK’s most influential festivals dedicated solely to short form storytelling, LSFF attracts filmmakers, cinephiles, and industry professionals from across the globe. This year promises an exciting programme that goes beyond traditional screenings — think immersive experiences, radical new voices, and powerful visual storytelling.

Held from 17 to 26 January 2025, the London Short Film Festival spans multiple venues across the city, from the iconic Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) to community-based cinemas and creative spaces. For over two decades, LSFF has built a reputation as a space where boundary-breaking work meets curious audiences. Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned director, or simply a lover of film, this is a must-attend event that continues to shape the UK’s independent film scene.

What makes the London Short Film Festival unique?

The London Short Film Festival is more than just a showcase of short films; it’s a celebration of storytelling that dares to be different. Founded in 2003, it has grown into a BAFTA and BIFA qualifying festival — meaning that screening your film here can be a significant step toward global recognition. With a clear commitment to diversity and innovation, LSFF curates work that challenges norms and pushes creative limits.

From themes like identity, resistance, and digital culture to experimental techniques and bold narratives, LSFF shines a light on voices that are often overlooked. The festival has been a springboard for internationally acclaimed shorts like Skin, Wasp, Bao, and A Short Film About Love. These films have gone on to win awards and gain wide distribution, underscoring the festival’s ability to spotlight powerful new work that resonates far beyond the screen.

What’s new in the 2025 programme?

The 2025 edition of the London Short Film Festival brings fresh energy to the short film landscape with over 500 screenings from UK and international filmmakers. The programme includes everything from politically charged documentaries and surreal animations to experimental shorts and family-friendly screenings. Curated strands explore topics such as race, gender, memory, technology, and post-colonial identity — all designed to spark discussion and reflection.

This year, LSFF introduces exciting collaborations, including LSFF x The Vintage Mobile Cinema, which turns classic vehicles into moving cinemas. It also returns with partnerships with emerging curators and artist collectives. Expect workshops, late-night events, and Q&A sessions with directors of films like Sister Wives, Intruders, Rock Paper Scissors, and A Lien Short Film. These immersive and intimate encounters create an atmosphere that sets LSFF apart from more conventional film festivals.

How to submit your short film

Submitting your work to the London Short Film Festival could be a career-defining opportunity. Open to filmmakers from all over the world, LSFF accepts films of any genre — including fiction, documentary, experimental, hybrid forms, and animation. Films must typically be under 45 minutes in length, and while technical polish is appreciated, originality and voice often carry the most weight in selection.

Submissions are accepted via FilmFreeway, and early bird, regular, and late deadlines vary across the year. The submission process includes clear guidelines on formats, permissions, and screening rights. If your film aligns with themes explored in titles like All Too Well: The Short Film or A Short Film About Killing, this festival could be the perfect match. Entry fees apply, though concessions are often available for students and underrepresented voices in filmmaking.

Tickets, passes, and how to attend LSFF 2025

Attending the London Short Film Festival 2025 is easier than ever, with a wide range of ticketing options designed to make the experience accessible to everyone. Whether you want to dip in for a single screening or dive into the full 10-day schedule, there’s a pass for you. Tickets are available via the official LSFF website, as well as directly from participating venues.

LSFF also offers day passes, full festival wristbands, and discounts for students, seniors, and those on low incomes. In recent years, the festival has explored hybrid and online access — allowing audiences from outside London to enjoy selected content remotely. Alongside film screenings, ticket holders gain access to industry talks, workshops, and networking events tailored to filmmakers, producers, writers, and festival programmers alike.

A spotlight on cultural impact and influential short films

Over the years, the London Short Film Festival has helped elevate short film to the level of fine art, proving that a 10-minute story can carry as much emotional weight and political power as a feature-length film. Titles like Skin (2018), Bao, and Wasp have left lasting impressions on audiences and critics alike, showing the breadth of talent and themes that LSFF nurtures.

The festival also serves as a launchpad for artists working outside traditional cinema. Many creators whose films premiered here have gone on to secure funding, win awards, or expand their short concepts into full-length features or television series. By encouraging diverse storytelling, LSFF ensures that voices from all communities have a platform — making it a key event in shaping the future of British and international cinema.

Finding funding for your short film

Short films often begin as passion projects, but turning them into reality requires more than just vision. The London Short Film Festival supports filmmakers by connecting them with funding opportunities in the UK. Organisations like the BFI NETWORK, Film London, and Arts Council England offer grants for short film development, production, and distribution. Many LSFF alumni have used these sources to bring their ideas to life.

The festival also offers guidance on accessing private sponsorship, applying for film school support, or launching a crowdfunding campaign. Whether you’re working on an animated short, an abstract art film, or a sci-fi story like Star Trek: Unification, LSFF provides a fertile ground to share your work — and the support needed to make it happen. With the right story and preparation, your film could be next on their programme.

Why you should attend the London Short Film Festival

Whether you’re behind the camera or in the audience, the London Short Film Festival is a space for discovery, dialogue, and artistic exchange. It offers an intimate yet international setting where ideas come alive, and films leave lasting impressions. Every January, London transforms into a cinematic hub of short-form storytelling — and 2025 is set to be one of its most ambitious editions yet.

The event champions independent thought, fresh creativity, and community engagement. From first-time filmmakers to established voices, everyone at LSFF contributes to a shared love for the power of short cinema. So if you’re passionate about film, innovation, or simply curious about new perspectives, don’t miss your chance to attend the London Short Film Festival 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the London Short Film Festival 2025?
The festival will run from 17–26 January 2025 across various London venues.

Can international filmmakers submit their work?
Yes, LSFF accepts short films from both UK-based and international filmmakers.

Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available via the official London Short Film Festival website and participating venue box offices.

What genres does the festival accept?
All genres are welcome — including documentary, fiction, animation, and experimental shorts.

Are there opportunities for networking and workshops?
Absolutely. LSFF offers panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, and industry networking events.

Is there funding help available for short film production?
While LSFF itself doesn’t directly offer funding, it connects filmmakers with UK-based organisations like BFI NETWORK and Film London.

Can students or first-time filmmakers apply?
Yes, LSFF actively encourages submissions from emerging talent and student filmmakers.

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