Future Film goes full-time: BFI launches the year-round Future Film Programme for 16-25s
The BFI today announces the Future Film Programme – a year-round initiative to support and showcase young curators and programmers.
Launching in January 2026, the programme will replace the annual weekend festival, expanding Future Film into a wider offer. It will provide regular opportunities to learn, connect and share at BFI Southbank and BFI Player throughout the year. That means there will be no standalone festival weekend in 2026 – instead, its spirit and purpose will live on through this expanded, year-round, multi-platform programme.
Alongside BFI Film Academy, which continues to deliver industry-led craft and technical training, and BFI NETWORK, which supports writers, directors and producers across the UK, the BFI Future Film Programme at BFI Southbank strengthens our support for young people beginning their careers in the screen industries.
Aimed at 16 to 25-year-olds, the Future Film Programme will present an evolving line-up of short films, guest speakers and practical workshops at BFI Southbank – which will also include elements at our festivals – and on BFI Player, developed in collaboration with emerging filmmakers and film curators.
The programme will be co-designed with young creatives – including past festival participants – who will help shape its strands and direction. Full details will be shared in the autumn.
“With the BFI Film Academy and now the Future Film Programme, we’re backing young people at every stage of their journey,” says Jason Wood, BFI Executive Director of Public Programmes and Audiences. “Future Film gives emerging creatives more chances to learn, connect and share their work – not just over a weekend, but all year round.”
Sara Whybrew, Director of Skills and Workforce Development, adds: “The BFI supports young people from all backgrounds to learn about screen careers, gain the skills they need, and progress into the industry. Our new year-round Future Film Programme at BFI Southbank is another step towards that goal, keeping our doors wide open to the next generation of talent.”
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