Set to go ahead as an in-person event at the Cambridge Arts Picturehouse between 18 and 25 November, the Cambridge Film Festival (CFF) will bring nearly 100 films to the city from across the globe – including 21 UK feature premieres, and a further five from Europe.
Now in its 40th year (making it the country’s third-longest running film festival), CFF’s diverse programme has made it a hugely popular event, as it showcases cinematic snapshots from an array of genres.
“We are thrilled to be welcoming audiences back to the Cambridge Film Festival,” says Matthew Webb, CFF executive director. “Céline Sciamma, Andrea Arnold and Joanna Hogg all return to a programme that is 50% female-directed, and new voices Laura Wandel and Laura Samani deliver striking debuts,” Matthew continues. “Films and filmmakers from over 44 countries contribute to a feast of world cinema, including the 26 features premiering during the festival – which cannot be missed.”
Films and filmmakers from over 44 countries contribute to a feast of world cinema
This year’s standout films include Titane, a brutal and startling effort from director Julia Ducournau – and one that has made her only the second woman ever to win the coveted Palme d’Or. There’s also the daring and authentic Luzzu, an international highlight, whose unusual subject matter of illicit swordfish trading is backgrounded by stunning, bucolic Maltese vistas, in what proves to be a stellar production from director Alex Camilleri.
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain seems an apt closing night for the festival, delivering a cast peppered with household names (Benedict Cumberbatch, Claire Foy, Richard Ayoade and Toby Jones, to name a few). An eccentric true story, it benefits greatly from Footlights alumni Will Sharpe’s nuanced direction.
All in all, it’s a triumphant return for one of the city’s favourite events – and we can’t wait to see you there. Details of Cambridge Film Festival’s full programme will be available from 23 October, with bookings opening on the same day. For more information, head to camfilmfest.com
