Gateshead Film Festival announced
Written by Lucas Ward on 7th October 2026
The Gateshead International Film Festival (GIFF) has been announced for July 2027.
The inaugural event has been conceived of by a North East based film company called ANBOC Ltd, with the programme being curated by a panel of northern and international filmmakers.
One of those creatives is Steve Wraith, an actor and writer from Newcastle. He said: “We will be delivering a unique film festival weekend event with the eyes of the world on the North East. The focus is on emerging and experienced filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences across our home region for a range of screenings, workshops and community events. We want to showcase fresh North East voices and talent alongside international independent cinema. The arena is open to everyone.”
Steve Wraith, North East writer and actor
For filmmakers from the region, all entries are free and can be done through FilmFreeway, with the intention of giving these regional filmmakers the opportunity to have their work considered alongside films arriving in Gateshead from across the world.
The programme is set to include international and North East film screenings, regional showcases, panels and workshops and networking events. Screenings are set to take place at Vue Gateshead, with industry panels and workshops hosted at Gateway Studio CIO on Gateshead High Street.
Independent filmmaker and festival programmer Catarina De Cèzanne
Independent filmmaker and screenwriter Catarina de Cèzanne said: “I envision our festival to operate like a creative hub for artists, and be more than just an entertaining event where we screen good films. I want to provide a unique learning and personal experience for people to come back every year, with new surprises beyond our film programme. I hope this festival can help filmmakers achieve their career goals, align with their marketing strategies and inspire them to meet each other and create new films.”
GIFF has already received over 130 submissions from more than 40 countries worldwide. They have also pledged to a five-year target to develop the festival into a major annual cultural event for the North East, with the potential to grow into a week-long international film festival.
The Gateshead International Film Festival is set to take place between July 16 and 18 2027.
