“A spectacular showcase of storytelling” Manchester Film Festival reveals 2025 line up

Lights, camera, action!

Manchester is rolling out the red carpet once again as the much-anticipated Manchester Film Festival returns for its 11th edition.

This annual celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community promises to transform the city into a cinematic wonderland from 14th to 23rd March 2025.

With an electrifying line-up of premieres, local talent, and global hits, this year’s festival is shaping up to be the ultimate destination for film lovers, industry insiders, and anyone who loves a good story.

Manchester Film Festival

Kicking off the festival in style, Peter Cattaneo’s The Penguin Lessons, starring Manchester’s own Steve Coogan, will open the event on March 14th.

Based on the beloved memoir, the film chronicles one man’s transformative journey through an unlikely friendship with a penguin, set against the tumultuous backdrop of Argentina’s political upheaval. Known for blending humour with heartfelt moments, Cattaneo’s latest work promises to be an unforgettable curtain-raiser.

Film buffs can revel in an array of 37 feature films, including 15 UK premieres and 4 world premieres. Every title gracing the screen will make its Manchester debut, giving audiences the first taste of groundbreaking cinema. Among the highlights:

• Santosh, the UK’s official Oscar contender, directed by Sandhya Suri, will have its Manchester premiere. This poignant story has already garnered acclaim worldwide.
• Festival darlings like Good One (India Donaldson) and My Dead Friend Zoe (Kyle Hausmann-Stokes) make their way from Sundance, Cannes, and SXSW.

• A24’s highly anticipated horror-comedy Y2K, starring Fred Durst, alongside the quirky offerings of Heads or Fails by Harpo and Lenny Guit, are sure to delight cinephiles.

Cazzie David’s directorial debut, I Love You Forever, also joins the stellar line-up, signalling a fresh and exciting voice in filmmaking.

Northern roots and local talent

The festival’s dedication to showcasing Northern talent shines brighter than ever. With a focus on filmmakers from the North West, audiences can expect three standout premieres:

• Departures (World Premiere): A raw and honest look at addiction and heartbreak, following Benji as he navigates the lingering shadows of a toxic relationship.
• Kid (World Premiere): The gripping tale of a music producer juggling the pressures of a high-stakes record deal with his chaotic family life.
• Treading Water (Manchester Premiere): A compelling exploration of life after prison, as protagonist Danny struggles to find his footing in supported housing.

Additionally, the North West Shorts strand will spotlight emerging voices from the region, cementing Manchester’s reputation as a hub for creative talent.

HOME sweet home

In a first for the festival, screenings will take place at HOME, Manchester’s renowned arts venue, alongside the iconic Odeon Great Northern. This partnership reflects the festival’s commitment to creating an inclusive and vibrant cinematic experience for both filmmakers and audiences.

Neil Jeram-Croft, Festival Director, shared his excitement: “We are thrilled to bring the festival to HOME this year. It’s the perfect fit for our diverse programme and for celebrating Manchester’s thriving film community. We can’t wait to welcome audiences for 10 days of unforgettable storytelling and inspiring conversations.”

Beyond the screen

In addition to the stellar line-up of films, the festival’s Industry Programme, set to be announced in February, promises insightful panels and workshops designed to inspire filmmakers and enthusiasts alike. The festival will culminate with its Annual Awards Ceremony on Sunday, 23rd March, honouring the standout films and talents of the 2025 edition.

Tickets for Manchester Film Festival

Tickets and passes for the Manchester Film Festival 2025 are on sale now. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this cinematic celebration—secure your seat on their website by clicking here

Tickets from £8

Passes:

• 5 film pass = £30

• 10 film pass = £50

• Full festival pass = £89

Mark your calendars and get ready to immerse yourself in a world of compelling stories, unforgettable characters, and inspiring voices. The Manchester Film Festival 2025 is set to be the city’s most exciting cultural event of the year!