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

Get ready for a cinematic showcase like no other! Pick ‘n’ Mix is a specially curated strand at the Sunrise Film Festival, offering a diverse selection of short films that capture the heart and soul of what makes our festival so special. From gripping dramas to thought-provoking and experimental gems, this screening is a true sampler of the creativity, passion, and storytelling excellence that defines Sunrise.

About the Films: Pick ‘n’ Mix is your ultimate festival taster, featuring a hand-picked collection of short films that span genres, themes, and styles. Whether you’re a long-time festival goer or experiencing Sunrise for the first time, this strand is the perfect way to dive into the incredible variety of talent showcased throughout the event.

Films Screening in This Strand: Extraction, The Calm, Splish Splash Splosh!, Historyland, Perennial, Shouting at the Sea, Ahru, Tunnel Vision, Bear & Clyde.

Why Attend?

A Bit of Everything – Enjoy an eclectic mix of short films that highlight what makes our festival unique.
Discover New Favourites – Be introduced to exciting emerging filmmakers and unforgettable storytelling.
The Full Festival Experience – If you can only catch one screening, Pick ‘n’ Mix is the ultimate way to experience the essence of Sunrise.

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

If you love variety and want a true taste of what makes Sunrise Film Festival a must-attend event, Pick ‘n’ Mix is the screening for you. Expect surprises, fresh perspectives, and an unforgettable journey through the magic of short film.

Experience the rich storytelling and creative talent of our region with East Anglia On Film, a special strand at the Sunrise Film Festival dedicated to showcasing the work of filmmakers from across East Anglia. This collection of short films highlights the voices, landscapes and stories that define our region, offering a unique glimpse into the artistry and passion of local creatives.

About the Films: Each short film in this selection has been directed or produced by filmmakers based in East Anglia, celebrating the region’s thriving independent film scene. From compelling narratives and stunning cinematography to thought-provoking and innovative storytelling, East Anglia On Film presents a diverse and inspiring collection of work that showcases the depth of talent within our local creative community.

Films Screening in This Strand: Dial, Father’s Day, Shooting Still Life, Buffing The Walking Men, Merman, Gardening.

Why Attend?

Love & Laughter – Experience romance in all its comedic, touching and unexpected forms.
Relatable & Unpredictable – From heartwarming moments to laugh-out-loud encounters, these films reflect the realities of modern love.
A Fresh Take on Romance – Forget the clichés – this collection brings originality and authenticity to the screen.

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

East Anglia On Film is a must-see for anyone passionate about regional cinema and independent storytelling. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a supporter of local talent, or simply curious about the creative voices shaping East Anglia’s film industry, this strand offers a powerful and inspiring collection of films that celebrate our homegrown talent.

The Sunrise Industry Summit is a dedicated event at the 2025 Sunrise Film Festival, designed to inspire, educate, and support young people in pursuing careers in the film industry and cinema exhibition. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker, an aspiring festival curator, or passionate about community cinema, this summit will provide invaluable insights into making it in the industry—especially in our region.

This two-part event features expert panels, exclusive screenings, and open discussions with industry professionals who have carved their paths in filmmaking, festival programming, and cinema exhibition.

SESSION 1 (11:00 AM – 1:00 PM)

Presented by Young Film Network South East

Introduction: A look at the BFI Film Academy & Young Film Network South East, offering young creatives opportunities to break into the industry.

Short Film Screenings:
Showcasing three 5-minute short films supported by Young Film Network South East, through the Short Cut Film Fund.

Special Screenings by Guest Speakers:
Short films screened and created by our guest speakers Sarah Leigh and Makenna Guyler, will lead into a 45-minute panel talk on accessibility behind the scenes in the Industry.

Panel Discussion – ‘Accessibility Behind the Scenes’

Speakers: Sarah Leigh & Makenna Guyler

Chaired by: Gina Stock, local young creative and Head of Events at Sunrise Film Festival

A deep dive into inclusivity in film production, career accessibility, and breaking barriers behind the scenes. How do we create an industry that works for everyone?

Audience Q&A
Your chance to ask the speakers about their experiences and advice for entering the industry.

SESSION 2 (1:15 PM – 2:15 PM)

Industry Career Insights: Film Festivals, Community Cinema & Production

Ending on a Film Screening: Dial, directed by Josh Trett

A panel discussion exploring different career paths, through setting up a successful production company in the region, creating short films and independent productions, and working on film festivals, with all panellists having a local connection to East Anglia.

Panelists:
Josh Trett – Filmmaker & Managing Director of Trett Films, Director of Dial
Lizzie Banks – Film Festival Creative Director & Accessibility Advocate
Mark Finbow – Film Production & Storytelling
Matilda Green – Film Industry & Audience Engagement

Chaired by: Joshua Freemantle, Leading Founder of Sunrise Film Festival & manager of social enterprise Sunrise Studios

Each panellist will introduce their career journey, followed by an open discussion covering key topics such as:

• How to break into the industry across our wider South East region, creating independent productions & working on film festivals.
• Navigating industry challenges & opportunities in East Anglia.
• The power of community cinema and grassroots film initiatives.

Audience Q&A
A chance to ask your burning questions and connect with professionals in the field.

Who Should Attend?

This event is ideal for:
Aspiring filmmakers, directors, producers, and screenwriters
Anyone interested in film festivals, independent films, and cinema exhibition
Students and young creatives looking to break into the industry
Film lovers who want to understand more about how the industry works behind the scenes

Join Us!

The Sunrise Industry Summit is an unmissable event for young creatives looking to forge their own path in the industry. Gain first-hand insights from professionals, discover different career opportunities, and be part of the next generation of storytellers and industry changemakers.

The Sunrise Industry Summit has been delivered in partnership with Young Film Network South East, and supported by National Lottery funding.