The 2022 London Independent Film Festival

Free industry events set to help London indie filmmakers with Covid recovery

The London Independent Film Festival has announced its programme of knowledge-sharing and networking events, in addition to showcasing emerging diverse talent for their 2022 film festival.

Independent filmmakers getting back on their feet after a tough two years will benefit from an array of free masterclasses and networking opportunities at the London Independent Film Festival (LIFF) from 1–10 April 2022.

LIFF returns to the real world this year, after switching to virtual formats during the Covid pandemic – and will be bigger than ever at London’s independent Genesis Cinema. Featuring six feature films and a dynamic line-up of short films, LIFF will also host a programme of knowledge-sharing events chaired by industry leaders to help indie talent reconnect with peers and grow their expertise.

The festival’s strong focus on supporting and developing emerging filmmakers has secured nine unique opportunities to enhance equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK market.

The free-to-attend classes and networking events include:

· Speed pitching with film industry professionals and a ‘how to pitch’ masterclass with Smash Media

· A ‘story surgery’ with Scriptwright

· Changing perceptions and opening minds with Female Film Club

· Panel on funding short films with Genera

· The role of disruptive tech in films with Cinnect

· Multiple networking events hosted by Mosaic, Genera, Female Film Club and Tweetup in partnership with LIFF.

Advance registration is required for each of these industry-leading sessions – more information about each event, and how to register, is available here.

LIFF Director Natasha Marburger says the training and networking programme will allow anyone interested in film to access insider tips and guidance at the same time as seeing award-winning new films.

“As filmmakers, we are always learning and gathering information, and networking is a key component. After the last two years, that’s even more crucial than ever. LIFF aims to provide filmmakers with tools to help them take their next step in their careers. I have made sure the programme is full of industry events that are interactive as well and provide lots of networking opportunities,” says Natasha.

Audiences, industry leaders, film buffs, journalists and editors are invited to join London’s indie filmmakers for the full programme of screenings. Must-see films include:

· God’s Petting You by Jamie Patterson

· Iris Warriors by Roydon Turner

· When The Screaming Starts by Conor Boru

· Much Ado by the Shakespeare Sisters.

The LIFF awards ceremony on Sunday 10 April will recognise and reward fresh talent in a highly competitive field of the next generation in film.

“I’m so excited– it will be great to welcome everyone to LIFF and showcase our industry’s strong and diverse talent pool in London and worldwide,” says Natasha.