Yesterday Film Leicester returns as a vibrant celebration of independent cinema across the city. The festival brings together filmmakers, audiences, and artists for a weekend of screenings, Q&As, and special events.
Attendees experience a diverse lineup that highlights emerging talent alongside curated retrospectives. With multiple venues and flexible passes, the festival is designed for both dedicated cinephiles and casual moviegoers exploring Leicester’s cultural scene.
| Festival Dates | Primary Venues | Ticket Packages | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23–25 August 2025 | Phoenix Cinema, Curve Theatre, University of Leicester | Day Pass, Weekend Pass, Student Pass | Students, local families, industry professionals |
| Workshops: 22–24 August | Belgrave Gate Pop-up, Phoenix Lecture Hall | Pay What You Can previews | Emerging filmmakers, educators, general public |
| Industry Panels: 23–25 August | Curve Rooftop, Phoenix Cinema | VIP Networking Package | Professionals, critics, students |
Programming Highlights And Featured Films
Narrative Features And Documentaries
The core slate features bold narrative features and incisive documentaries. Each title is selected to reflect diverse voices, innovative storytelling, and themes relevant to Leicester’s communities.
Short Films And Emerging Talent
A dedicated strand showcases short films from emerging regional and international directors. These shorts provide a platform for fresh perspectives and creative risk-taking, with many filmmakers attending for live introductions.
Industry Panels And Workshops
Screenwriting And Production Sessions
Industry professionals lead practical workshops on story structure, character development, and production logistics. Participants gain actionable insights and direct feedback on their projects.
Distribution And Audience Engagement
Panels explore pathways from festival circuit to distribution, including digital strategies and community engagement. Filmmakers, programmers, and marketers share tactics for building audience loyalty and critical recognition.
Venue Details And Accessibility
Historic Cinemas And Modern Spaces
Venues range from intimate historic cinemas to state-of-the-art auditoriums, each chosen to enhance the viewing experience. Acoustic design, seating comfort, and technical presentation are prioritized across locations.
Accessibility And Inclusion Initiatives
The festival implements step-free access, captioned screenings, audio description, and sensory-friendly sessions. Community partners help ensure that programming is welcoming and inclusive for all attendees.
Plan Your Experience And Make The Most Of The Festival
- Review the full programme and choose a ticket package that matches your schedule and interests.
- Book early for popular screenings and industry events to secure preferred times and venues.
- Attend at least one workshop or panel to connect with filmmakers and industry experts.
- Use the festival app to build a personal schedule, get venue updates, and join live discussions.
- Support local partners by visiting pop-up venues, cafes, and market stalls across Leicester.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is there a specific focus on regional talent at Yesterday Film Leicester?
Yes, the festival highlights emerging filmmakers from Leicester and the East Midlands through curated strands, workshops, and networking opportunities tailored for regional creators.
What types of films can attendees expect to see?
Attendees can expect a mix of narrative features, documentaries, and short films spanning diverse genres, cultures, and perspectives, with many films presented in exclusive festival or regional premieres.
How can industry professionals participate in panels and pitching sessions?
Industry professionals are invited to submit panel proposals and register for curated pitching sessions. Selected contributors receive logistical support and audience introductions to maximize meaningful connections.
Are tickets and events suitable for families and students?
Yes, the festival offers discounted student tickets, family-friendly screenings, and pay-what-you-can previews to ensure broad access and encourage first-time festival-goers to attend.