About Us

Kingston International Film Festival (KIFF) brings independent filmmakers, industry professionals and the local community together for three glittering days of screenings, workshops, and events, culminating with the Sunday evening Awards Presentation.

AN INTERNATIONAL ARENA FOR NEW VOICES IN CINEMA

KIFF celebrates filmmakers from around the world, with a special focus on emerging talent. On the big screens of the Odeon Cinema and Rose Theatre to intimate the intimate setting of the Rose Studio the festival offers audiences a diverse program of screenings that highlight creativity, innovation, and storytelling.

And beyond the screen:

Workshops “Routes into The Industry” – brought to you by leading industry specialists, offering insight and guidance on how to begin on your career path.

Networking Events: Opportunities for filmmakers, producers, and audiences to connect, collaborate, to share best practice and spark new ideas.

KIFF is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We promote and deliver equality of opportunity across all our activities not just at the festival but throughout the year.

The perfect setting

Located just 16 minutes from central London, Kingston upon Thames offers a vibrant backdrop for the festival. With its historic market town charm, riverside pubs, and restaurants along the Thames, KIFF combines cinematic discovery with a lively cultural atmosphere.

Our long-term ambition is to build the festival into an internationally recognised event that showcases the work of the world’s leading independent filmmakers, as well as becoming the premier platform for discovering remarkable new British talent.

- DAVID CUNNINGHAM

Festival Director

Our Team

David Cunningham

Founder & Festival Director

Jelena Lützel

Festival Director

Stephen Cranny

Festival Producer & Programming Director

Harriet Bonnichon

Marketing & Communications

Shirley Cunnigham

Festival Operations Director

Becky Freeman

Creative & Design

Peter Simmons

Technical Director

Beth Barclay

Communications & Operations