Gateshead Film Festival offers free entry for North East filmmakers
Written by Peder Leufstedt Nystrom on 15th October 2026
Organisers of next summer’s first-ever Gateshead International Film Festival (GIFF) say North East creators and regional productions can submit their work free of charge.
The inaugural GIFF is spearheaded by North Eastern filmmakers Steve Wraith and Neil Jackson, who are co-directors of the event alongside Portuguese writer and director Catarina De Cèzanne (pictured below).
Gateshead International FIlm Festival co-director Catarina De Cèzanne. at the launch of the event.
Photo: Peder Leufstedt Nyström
While submissions are open to filmmakers worldwide, regardless of experience, GIFF is waiving submission fees for local creators, to encourage strong regional representation and to platform North Eastern talent.
“We want to showcase fresh North East voices and talent alongside international independent cinema,” said Mr Wraith. “The arena is open to everyone.”
The event has attracted almost 200 submissions from across 40 countries, with 13 North Eastern productions currently submitted for consideration.
Gateshead International Film Festival co-director Neil Jackson speaking at the launch of the event.
Photo: Peder Leufstedt Nyström
Famous Newcastle natives such as movie star Charlie Hunnam and football legend Alan Shearer have expressed their support for the event, which has an outspoken ambition to “champion North East filmmaking talent” and “bring international cinema to Gateshead”.
In addition to screenings, the festival will also be arranging Q&As, seminars and workshops.
The Gateshead International Film Festival is scheduled to take place between July 16 and July 18, 2027.
Tickets are on sale now and film submissions can be made through FilmFreeway and FestHome.
