Kingston International Film Festival (KIFF) has announced the lineup for its fifth edition, taking place from 5 – 7 June 2026, and offering a weekend packed with premieres, filmmaker Q&A's, workshops and industry panels. 

Whether you want to be a part of the industry or just to watch some great films, some of which will be screening for the first time, this year's festival is designed more than ever to be a celebration for everyone, from seasoned filmmakers to local audiences and aspiring creatives.

This year's highlights include:

• World Premiere of US Comedy 25 Miles to Normal starring Rachel Nichols (Continuum, GI Joe-Rise of the Cobra), Bruce Davison (X-Men, Ozark), Ed Begley Jnr (Arrested Development, A Mighty Wind), and Michelle Hurd (Star Trek: Picard, Blindspot).
• An Audience with filmmaker Mike Leigh (Secrets & Lies, Mr Turner, Vera Drake), hosted By Adrian Wootton OBE, CEO of British Film Commission & Film London.

Mike Leigh said: "I'm honoured to be a guest of the Kingston Film Festival, and to accept the Festival's Independent Spirit Award. 

"The festival's achievements are impressive, not least in their support of independent cinema and of young filmmakers in London. And I very much look forward to sharing my work with their enthusiastic audience."

There will also be a workshop called 'Routes Into the Industry- Thinking of a career in Film and Television Industry?'. This session will help you to understand the opportunities available and how to approach them. 

It will be followed by a panel of experienced industry professionals to whom you can ask questions.

To help celebrate Pride Month in Kingston, KIFF is kicking off with 'Being Seen', an evening with LGBTQ+ themed Films on Saturday, 6 June.

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Speaking about KIFF's upcoming festival, David Cunningham, Founder & Festival Director, said: "This year's festival is our most ambitious yet. 

"We've curated a programme that genuinely offers something for everyone. Not only will you see some great films but also have a chance to talk to their makers, something your normal cinema visit can't offer. 

"Personally, I am so proud that the filmmakers of 25 Miles to Normal have chosen our festival to premiere their film."

The KIFF 2026 Box Office is now open, with a full range of passes and individual screening tickets available. Audiences can browse the complete programme and book directly through the festival's online ticketing platform here.