The INDIs Film Fest Returns!

When we think about a typical film experience it’s easy to picture a screen in front of us, unfolding stories through images and sound. But for the INDIs Film Fest we’ve been keen to explore beyond that boundary. More than just showcasing films, we want to create spaces to engage directly with the themes or worlds behind the films. With talks, Q&As, and workshops featuring voices from across the creative industries, we offer a glimpse into the personal journeys and insights that shape cinema and creative careers. It’s an invitation to step into the story, to see beyond the frame and to explore the narratives and ideas that linger long after the credits roll.

The INDIs Film Fest was started in 2017, as part of the Leeds Film family which includes Leeds Young Film Festival (Easter 2024) and Leeds International Film Festival (November 2024). It started as a way to support young filmmakers in Yorkshire through classes, workshops and networking opportunities. Helping emerging filmmakers take the next steps or sparking a new creative journey is still a core part of the festival and we’ve evolved into looking at other creative industries and how they intersect cinema and filmmaking. Fashion, exhibition, illustration, heavy-metal music - these are all some of the creative industries that are part of INDIsFilm Fest 2024. As film can straddle so many different arts at the same time, we want to create a film hub for young creatives interested in exploring these intersections in a deeper way. And we’re also looking to explore the future of film itself.

This year, we venture further into the realms of what film can be with our new VR cinema in partnership with StoryFutures, spotlighting emerging technology and media. VR isn’t just another way to watch films; it’s an evolution in how we connect with stories. Imagine not just seeing a story unfold but being part of it, where every turn and glance can reveal a new layer of the story. This is what we mean when we talk about immersive experiences – it's about breaking down the walls between the story and the viewer, making you an active participant in the cinematic world.

But why consider these VR experiences as films? Because, at their core, they carry the essence of what makes cinema so captivating: the power of narrative. These stories, whether presented on a traditional screen or through a VR headset can draw us into experiences, emotions and realities far beyond our own. And although VR is still in its infancy, it’s something we want to be sure to be a part of from the start. 

As we look forward to this year’s festival we can’t wait for these shared experiences. Because it’s not just about the films we’ll watch but the discussions they’ll spark, the ideas they’ll inspire, and the connections they’ll build. The INDIs Film Fest is the place to push past the normal boundaries of cinema, where you’re invited not just to watch but to engage, explore, and be inspired.

The INDIs will take place 23-25 February 2024 in various venues across Leeds including the Hyde Park Picture House.

To see the full programme and book tickets, please visit leedsfilm.com and follow @INDIsFestival on Instagram.