<img src='' title='Event Category: Cinema' alt='' id='templ_icon_' width='' height='' /> Event Category: Cinema

Stories have the power to connect us, inspire us and remind us of our shared humanity. Sharing Our Stories is a heartfelt strand at Sunrise Film Festival showcasing a diverse collection of short films that celebrate personal, cultural and universal narratives. These films offer a window into different lives, experiences and perspectives, told with honesty, creativity and emotion.

About the Films: Each film in Sharing Our Stories brings a unique voice to the screen, whether through intimate character studies, powerful life experiences, or imaginative storytelling. These films explore themes of identity, community, resilience and the human experience, showcasing the art of storytelling in its purest form.

Films Screening in This Strand: Time Between Us, Happy Snaps, PASSAGE, A Day In June, Gabriela, 261, Elsa, Ain’t Nuff Time.

Why Attend?

Authentic Narratives – Experience real and relatable stories from a variety of perspectives.
Diverse Voices – A celebration of different cultures, experiences and identities through film.
Thought-Provoking Themes – Films that spark conversation and reflection about the world around us.

Step into the beauty, power and fragility of the natural world with A Walk on the Wildside, a thought-provoking strand at the Sunrise Film Festival dedicated to environmental storytelling. This collection of short films explores our relationship with nature, the impact of climate change and the urgent need for conservation.

About the Films: From breathtaking cinematography to environmental narratives, A Walk on the Wildside presents stories that inspire, challenge and ignite action. Whether showcasing the wonders of untouched landscapes or the resilience of ecosystems, these films serve as a reminder of our responsibility to the earth, but also to those who work in the natural world.

Films Screening in This Strand: REQUIEM, Three Hares, How the world is going to end, Our Grandparents Hunted Here, 59 degrees, She who visions, She Fishes, Decksdark.

Why Attend?

Environmental Awareness – Films that highlight the beauty of nature and the need to protect it.
Stunning Visuals – A showcase of breathtaking cinematography capturing the essence of the wild.
Inspiring & Educational – Thought-provoking narratives that spark important conversations.

Bold, heartfelt and unapologetically authentic, Out & Proud is a vibrant strand at Sunrise Film Festival showcasing a powerful collection of LGBTQ+ short films. These films celebrate identity, love, resilience and the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a mix of moving dramas, joyful romances and compelling personal narratives.

About the Films: Curated from talented filmmakers around the world, Out & Proud presents stories that highlight the beauty and complexity of queer experiences. From tales of self-discovery and love to explorations of identity and belonging, this collection is a celebration of LGBTQ+ voices in cinema.

Films Screening in This Strand: GIRLY, Christmas 1978, Until Today, Some Kind of Paradise, Bi-Nocular Panic, Lavender Whispers, Bear & Clyde, FIZZING.

Why Attend?

Authentic Representation – Stories that reflect real LGBTQ+ experiences, struggles and triumphs.
Diverse & Impactful Narratives – A blend of emotional, uplifting and thought-provoking films.
A Platform for Queer Filmmakers – Showcasing emerging and established LGBTQ+ storytellers.

This Screening Includes a Filmmaker Q&A: Meet the creative minds behind the films in a post-screening discussion about their inspirations, challenges, and experiences in the industry.

Discover the future of filmmaking with The Next Wave, a thrilling strand at Sunrise Film Festival showcasing an exciting collection of short films created by the next generation of UK filmmakers. These student-made films highlight bold storytelling, fresh perspectives, and innovative creativity, proving that the future of cinema is in great hands.

About the Films: Handpicked from student filmmakers submissions from across the UK, these short films span a variety of genres, themes, and styles. From thought-provoking dramas to visually stunning experimental works, The Next Waveoffers a glimpse into the emerging voices shaping the industry. Expect daring ideas, raw talent, and fresh takes on storytelling that challenges and inspires.

Films Screening in This Strand: Antibodies, Radio, Silent Night, Fig Fever, Romchyk, Hatter, Bulbank, A Well-Bread Woman, Belladonna, Eyes Front.

Why Attend?

Discover Rising Talent – Get an exclusive look at the filmmakers sure to shape the future of cinema.
Diverse & Innovative Stories – A showcase of fresh voices pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
Inspiring & Thought-Provoking – See bold creativity from the brightest student filmmakers across the UK.