top of page

About 

The Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) is an annual celebration of international cinema in the heart of Soho, London. Founded by Ben Charles Edwards and Kirsty Bell, the creative force behind Dreamtown Entertainment and Goldfinch Entertainment, CIFF champions bold storytelling from around the world.

Following a sold-out inaugural edition, CIFF continues to grow, attracting over 100 film submissions from around the world and bringing together Oscar- and BAFTA-winning filmmakers alongside emerging talent.

Led by an experienced team including Sarah Poole, Phill McKenzie and Camille Koefoed. CIFF presents world, UK and London premieres, screenings, industry events and unforgettable cinematic experiences.

Built on creativity, collaboration and cultural exchange, CIFF brings international stories to the cultural heart of London while celebrating the city's diversity, creativity and thriving film community.

Our Vision

We believe great cinema should be fearless, accessible and internationally connected. Our vision is to champion independent filmmaking, celebrate diverse voices and create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of storytellers.

Programme

Our programme showcases a curated selection of international features, documentaries and short films, alongside filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, networking events and the annual CIFF Awards.

Through partnerships including the Commonwealth Foundation, CIFF explores how film can inspire cultural exchange and international collaboration. The festival also hosts industry panels with Alliotts LLP, whose nearly 60 years of experience span independent productions, British classics and Oscar-winning films.

Highlights

Our jury has included Asia Argento, Sadie Frost, Roger Daltrey, Paul Oakenfold and podcast leaders of 'Girls On Film', Anna Smith and Hedda Archbold, alongside celebrated filmmakers, actors and industry leaders.

The programme has featured work from internationally acclaimed actors, directors and producers including Cate Blanchett, Daisy Edgar-Jones, Héctor Medina, Alan G. Parker, Julien Temple, Bella Ramsey, Nuk Suwanchote and Louisa Connolly-Burnham.

Highlights have included premieres and special screenings of Borrowed Time, Los Frikis, Savage Flowers, The Wheels of Heaven, QUANT and London: The Modern Babylon, alongside the Goldfinch Academy CIFF Award, supporting the next generation of filmmakers through funding and mentorship.

Rooted in Soho. Connected to the world. Championing the future of cinema.

Screenshot (505).png
PHOTO-2026-08-07-19-37-12.jpg

“They've all got the glitz. We've got the grit.”
-  Ben Charles Edwards​

“Cinema isn't dying. The fire is still alive… that's where the revolution begins.”
-  Asia Argento

“The Goldfinch Academy CIFF Award combines funding, mentorship and industry support to champion the next generation of filmmakers.”
-  Variety

“Supporting filmmakers has always been at the core of what we do.”
-  Kirsty Bell

“We wanted to create something that's at the heart of the city… bringing global cinema to London while celebrating what London itself has to offer.”— Ben Charles Edwards

Screenshot (506).png
bottom of page