Wellington Film Festival 2025 Programme is Announced

Wellington Film Festival returns this autumn with an exciting and eclectic programme set to entertain, engage, and inspire film lovers of all ages. Running from 3rd to 5th October 2025, this year’s festival boasts an impressive line-up of screenings, live performances, workshops, and special events across the town with tickets on sale from August 1st. 

Chair of the Festival Steering Committee Sean Pringle Kosikowsky said:
“This year’s programme is packed with unique experiences that bring our community together to celebrate the power of storytelling in all its forms. From classic films to grassroots documentaries, hands-on workshops to engaging talks, Wellington Film Festival 2025 has something for everyone.”

Festival highlights include a spectacular screening of Murnau’s 1926 silent masterpiece Faust, accompanied by a live score blending guitar, synthesisers, and Chinese folk instruments within the stunning Grade I listed St John’s Church – promising a truly atmospheric experience.

Comedy fans can revisit the timeless satire of Monty Python’s Life of Brian, while families can enjoy fantasy classics like Labyrinth and the feel-good musical Mamma Mia. For cinephiles and history buffs alike, a tribute to Buster Keaton will see a collection of his iconic short films screened on his 130th birthday at Brazier’s.

A major festival highlight is the Q&A with Wellington Film Festival Patron and acclaimed actor James Purefoy, followed by a special screening of Fisherman’s Friends, complete with live sea shanties to set the mood.

Celebrating nature and environmental storytelling, the festival presents Wilding and Our Town Plants Trees, alongside a special showcase of short films, featuring guest speaker and wildlife filmmaker Lisa Walters.

Engaging the community further, the 48 Hour Film Challenge invites young filmmakers to create a short film in just two days, culminating in a gala screening of their efforts. Local creativity also takes the spotlight with Welcome to Wellington – an African Journey, a short documentary exploring the experiences of Wellington’s growing African community.

Additional events include a film prosthetics demonstration in Wellington Park, a lively film quiz hosted by BBC Radio Somerset’s Simon Parkin, and a Q&A with Sharon Sheehan, director of the new feature Mary Anning and the Dinosaur Hunters.

The festival will take up residency in the town’s Pop-Up Shop from 29th September, serving as a hub for tickets, promotions, and hands-on activities, including children’s mask-making workshops ahead of the Labyrinth screening.

For full programme details, tickets, and information on how to participate in the 48 Hour Film Challenge, visit www.wellingtonfilmfestival.org.uk