Kingston International (KIFF) returned to the borough over the weekend (Friday, 5 June - Sunday, 7 June) for its fifth year, offering a weekend packed with premieres, filmmaker Q&A's, workshops and industry panels.

This year's highlights included:

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.

Speaking about visiting Kingston for the first time, Michelle Hurd told Nub News: "Kingston is such a lovely spot and feels different to central London. It's nice to be away from the hussle and bustle of the city."

Actress Michelle Hurd attended KIFF this year (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Speaking before the festival, 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."

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

Jazz Bhalla premiered his film 'Never Had a Chance' at KIFF this year (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

It was followed by a panel of experienced industry professionals to whom guests could ask questions.

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



Kingston Council leader, Clrr Andreas Kirsch (L) and KIFF Founder and Festival Director, David Cunningham (R) (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

Speaking about this year's festival, David Cunningham, Founder & Festival Director, previously 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."