Brighton Rocks International Film Festival 2026 (9th Edition)

Brighton Rocks International Film Festival returns for its 9th edition as a young festival with big ambitions to give maximum support to emerging filmmakers and become the UK's main forum for indie and underground cinema. Running for seven days in June, BRIFF celebrates independent, experimental, and boundary-pushing films from around the world that embody Brighton's creative spirit – an out-there attitude, a state of mind, and a spirit that dares to be itself. The festival is BIFA-qualifying (British Independent Film Awards), providing recognition and credibility for independent filmmakers.

The festival showcases diverse film categories including narrative, documentary, experimental, animation, shorts (under 20 minutes), micro-movies (under 4 minutes), phone movies (75% phone footage), student films, and a special "Brighton Film" category for works set in or featuring the city. All films must be in English or have English subtitles and must have been produced after 1 January 2015. Low or no-budget indie films (under $2,500 USD) receive dedicated programming support. Screenings take place across three primary venues: Dukes at Komedia Cinema (the main cinema hub), Daltons (the festival networking hub), and The Actors Studio, creating an integrated festival experience throughout the city.

All screening sessions are followed by filmmaker Q&As providing direct engagement between audiences and creators. An exclusive networking hub runs throughout the festival, creating opportunities for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and celebrate independent cinema. Festival Director Dr James Rowlins emphasises the festival's commitment to reviewing every submission "with TLC" and supporting emerging voices in cinema. The 2026 edition promises new stories, new voices, and expanded categories as Brighton Rocks continues its mission to champion indie and underground filmmaking on the UK stage.