Every great film begins with a compelling story.
The story of the Croydon International Film Festival began more than twelve years ago with a simple but powerful idea: what if we created an International film festival, South London deserved that we could invite the world to?
Driven by a lifelong passion for film, television and storytelling, that vision has grown into an ambitious cultural initiative shaped by a dedicated team of more than 20 volunteers and advisers whose collective experience spans film, television, live events, arts, education and community engagement.
Launching in November 2026, the Croydon International Film Festival (CIFF) is far more than a programme of screenings. It is a bold new cultural platform designed to position Croydon as a destination for creativity, innovation and international cultural exchange.
Our Story
Our Purpose
The Croydon International Film Festival was created to put Croydon firmly on the cultural map as a place where bold, original storytelling can thrive. We saw a gap, not just for showcasing great films, but for creating a space where local voices sit alongside international talent, where new filmmakers feel seen, and where audiences can experience something fresh, thought-provoking, and genuinely exciting.
At its heart, CIFF is built on three core ambitions:
1. Celebrating Film by showcasing exceptional cinema and bringing world-class storytelling to Croydon.
2. Championing Creativity by supporting emerging talent, amplifying underrepresented voices and creating pathways into the creative industries.
3. Connecting Communities by using film as a catalyst for dialogue, participation, cultural exchange and social impact.
Our ambition extends far beyond the festival period itself.
Through year-round partnerships, skills programmes and community initiatives, CIFF is committed to leaving a lasting legacy, inspiring the next generation of creatives and contributing to Croydon's growing reputation as a centre for culture and innovation.