Chester International Film Festival returns for its 39th year at Storyhouse

The Chester International Film Festival will return to Storyhouse from 13 to 22 March 2026, bringing ten days of independent cinema, guest speakers and special events to the city.

Now in its 39th year, the Chester International Film Festival is founded by Chester Film Society and continues in partnership with Storyhouse and the University of Chester. The annual event celebrates contemporary independent film from across the world and has become a key fixture in Chester’s cultural calendar.

The 2026 programme includes 14 preview screenings competing for the Audience Award. After each screening, audiences will be invited to rate the film, with votes determining the overall winner. The result will be announced at the Closing Night Drinks Reception on 22 March.

The festival opens on Friday 13 March with DJ Ahmet at 7.30pm, preceded by an opening reception at 6.30pm. Over the following days, films from the United Kingdom, Europe, North and South America and Asia will be screened. Titles include Rose of Nevada, Primavera, La Grazia, The Stranger, Orphan, Romeria, Orwell 2+2=5, Miroirs No. 3, The Blue Trail, Exit 8, Our Land, Colours of Time and Father Mother Sister Brother.

Selected screenings will be introduced by guest speakers from the University of Chester. Organisers have confirmed there will be no adverts or trailers before festival showings.

Two films will feature post screening discussions with creative teams. Game on Sunday 15 March and Iron Ladies on Sunday 22 March will both be followed by question and answer sessions with invited guests.

Short film also plays a central role in the festival. The Chester Animation Festival will take place on Saturday 14 March. Northern Exposure is scheduled for Tuesday 17 March, with the Student Showcase on Saturday 21 March. Tickets for short film programmes are priced at £3.

Festival Classics will include a 40th anniversary screening of Blue Velvet on Wednesday 18 March as part of Reel Talk Presents, operating on a pay what you can basis. A free screening of Chariots of Fire will be held on Thursday 19 March.

A multibuy offer is available for festival goers. Those booking two events at the same time can save 25 per cent, while booking three or more offers a 50 per cent saving. Storyhouse membership discounts will be applied automatically at checkout.

All screenings will take place at Storyhouse on Hunter Street in Chester.