3-4

October, 2025

The theme of BIFF 2025 is

empowerment, whether it's

through the stories told

on screen or the act of

submitting a film for the

first or even second time.

This is a festival where bold

voices rise, and new talent

takes its place.

LATE DEADLINE

SUBMISSIONS

OPEN UNTIL

AUGUST 12th

EARLY BIRD

May 16th, 2025

REGULAR

July 18th, 2025

LATE

August 12th, 2025

EXTENDED

September 12th, 2025

NOTIFICATION

September 19th, 2025

VENUE & ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

"At Hilton Bournemouth, we’re very passionate about supporting the local creative community. We are very proud to be hosting this year’s BIFF. We’ve welcomed a range of inspiring artistic events in the past, and we’re committed to making the hotel a hub for creativity. We can't wait to work closely with the BIFF team to create a fantastic couple of days!"

Ben Pilling

B2B Cluster Sales Executive

Hilton & Hampton Bournemouth

ABOUT THE BOURNEMOUTH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Calling all dreamers, storytellers, and trailblazers, your moment starts here!

BIFF2025 is open for submissions, and we can’t wait to discover your voice. Whether it’s your first script, your first short film, or your first big idea, we believe in the power of beginnings. Join a vibrant community that celebrates new perspectives and fresh stories. Submit today and let’s bring your vision to the big screen!

Where bold stories begin.

Bournemouth International Film Festival (BIFF) is a purpose-driven, filmmaker-focused festival championing first-time creators, bold storytelling, and independent voices from around the world.

Held over two dynamic days at the prestigious Hilton Bournemouth, BIFF combines screenings, talks, workshops, and a black-tie awards night to celebrate the next generation of talent in film and screenwriting.

As a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), BIFF reinvests profits into filmmaker development, bursaries, education, and community-led cultural initiatives.

What makes BIFF different?


The theme of BIFF 2025 is empowerment, whether it’s through the stories told on screen or the act of submitting a film for the first or even second time. This is a festival where bold voices rise, and new talent takes its place.

Career-Boosting Exposure – Selected films and scripts are showcased in front of audiences, industry professionals, and talent scouts.

Filmmaker-Centric Experience – Run by people who work in the industry and understand what new creators need.

Script-to-Screen Opportunity – The winner of our short film script competition will have their screenplay produced and premiered in Dorset.

Inclusive & Accessible – Affordable submission fees, student categories, and a strong focus on underrepresented voices.

Networking That Matters – Panels, Q&As and informal events designed to connect emerging filmmakers with real opportunity.

SUPPORTED BY

CATEGORIES & FEES

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR

Steve McCarten

CONTACT & SOCIALS

RULES & TERMS