Spring 2027 edition announced
LIFF returns to Genesis Cinema for ten days of independent cinema, panels, pitching and parties.
Spring 2027
The Festival
Twenty years of independent film in London
The London Independent Film Festival is devoted to the advancement of first- and second-time filmmakers telling ambitious stories on limited budgets. Hosted each spring and autumn at Genesis Cinema, LIFF screens the work of 1000's of filmmakers from around the world across ten days, alongside a full programme of industry events.
It is one of London's longest-running independent festivals, with a support system for emerging filmmakers that includes training programmes run by professionals who understand how to move a filmmaking career to the next level.
What LIFF stands for
First & second films
Our programme is built for directors making their first or second film — the point where a festival platform matters most.
Low, micro & no budget
Dedicated award categories for features made under £100k and under £10k, so small films compete on their own terms.
UK & international
British independent cinema programmed alongside work from filmmakers around the world.
Real theatrical screenings
Every selected film screens to a paying audience at Genesis Cinema — repeatedly voted the best cinema in the UK.
Filmmaker networking
Opening and closing parties, filmmaker Q&As and ten days of people in the same bar with the same problems.
Industry & development
Panels, workshops and the LIFF Mini-Market pitching initiative, run by professionals who work in the business daily.
Latest news
Autumn 2026 winners announced
Finding My Voice, The (First) Last Screenplay, Lost on the Road and Sessions were among the films honoured at the Autumn 2026 awards.
Spring 2027 submissions are open
Features, shorts, documentaries, animation, experimental work, music videos and screenplays — all via FilmFreeway.
Past LIFF films
20+ Years of LIFF1000's of Filmmakers10 DaysGenesis CinemaLondon