STROUD FILM FESTIVAL IS BACK WITH A BANG, BRINGING ANOTHER MIGHTY PROGRAMME OF FILMS, EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS TO AUDIENCES OF ALL AGES AND INTERESTS.

This year for the festival’s 11th edition, we’re delighted that 40 events will run across 16 independent venues throughout the Stroud District.

We have developed the programme having spent the year listening to feedback, talking with partners and reflecting on last year’s festival. The 2025 programme is extraordinarily broad and seeks to celebrate the best of independent cinema and bring local, national and international talent to our screens and stages.

The festival continues to be unique in its collaborative approach to programming. Working with a diverse range of brilliant partners brings a variety of viewing experiences and exciting opportunities to connect filmmakers and audiences through cinema. From stories of reincarnation, to championing inclusivity, to documenting British counterculture and innovation through to over protective clownfish, performative celebration of the nightingale, and some extraordinary journeys on foot, not to mention the opportunity to make shadow puppets (and much, much more) - 2025 has something for everyone.

With the cost of living continuing to hit record highs, for a second year running we have ensured that cost does not present a barrier to anyone that wishes to enjoy events in the programme. Where possible, tickets will be priced at three levels; £8 Pay it Forward, £6 Standard and £4 Low Income.

None of this would be possible without the support of our network of partners and audiences who continue to contribute to and support the programme. Special thanks to Bath Spa University, Darbyshire, Ecotricity, Five Valleys, Good Small Farms, Renishaw and for their generous sponsorship that helps Stroud Film Festival to pay fair wages, train young people in digital marketing and grow our offer of film workshops. Last but not least, we extend a huge thank you to the British Film Institute (BFI) for their financial support and wealth of advice that continues to help us evolve and build our profile throughout the South West.

So, get into the full swing of the festival and immerse yourself in cinema for 16 days! What better way to see out winter than to enjoy films on the big screen with your community and feel inspired, indulged and informed?

Enjoy it all!

Hatty Bell, Katharina Child, Andy Freedman, Paul Freedman, Claire Levy, Derrick McLean