Why London’s Rolling Film Festival Is the Place to Spot Rising and Legendary Talent
London’s indie film scene is gearing up for a major celebration this September as the London Rolling Film Festival (LRFF) returns for its 15th edition. Running 5–7 September 2025 at Vue Piccadilly and The Queens Head, the boutique festival promises red carpet glamour, powerful stories, and a chance to meet the filmmakers themselves.
This year’s programme blends fresh perspectives with internationally recognised talent, with filmmakers travelling from the UK, Europe, Taiwan, and the United States to present their work in person. Audiences won’t just be watching films – they’ll be part of conversations, Q&As, and networking moments that define LRFF’s intimate atmosphere.
A Line-Up Packed with Talent
Highlights of the Official Selection include:
- Neil Marshall, Emmy® nominee and BIFA winner (Game of Thrones, Dog Soldiers, The Descent), presenting his short film Keep Young and Beautiful. This year also marks the 20th anniversary of The Descent, the cult classic that helped define his career.
- Philip Walker, two-time BAFTA nominee, with his latest short Armada.
- Russell De Rozario, winner of Best First-Time Director in New York for This Damnation, joined by actors Max Bennett (Poldark) and Nick Moran (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows).
- Anna Simone Scott, Daytime Emmy® nominee, screening Take My Heart.
- Jordan River, pioneer of Italian 3D cinema, with his award-winning feature Joachim and the Apocalypse.
- Marco De Luca, whose films have screened at BFI FLARE and OUTfest, working with Golden Globe®-nominated collaborators on Buio Come il Cuore.
- Marcia Kimpton, with her project An American Abroad.
- Theresa Godly, actress known from Bridgerton and EastEnders, directing The Stranger I Love.
The red carpet will also welcome Jennifer Mischiati, Bill Hutchens, Yoon C. Joyce, and Emmy® Award-winning composer Michele Josia. Italian cinema plays a particularly strong role this year, with backing from major cultural institutions and dignitaries including Italian Consul Alessandro Mignini, ICCIUK President Roberto Costa, and COMITES Manchester President Cesare Ardito.
The Jury’s Eye
This year’s jury brings together diverse expertise:
- David Nicholas Wilkinson – Producer and distributor, founder of Guerilla Films.
- Mark Rance – Producer and curator, founder of Watchmaker Films.
- Stephanie Takyi – Entertainment and travel journalist (Daily Mail, GB News, CNN Travel).
- Nazmun Nesa Piari – Author and journalist.
A Festival with a Mission
Unlike many film festivals, LRFF requires filmmakers to attend in person, ensuring a direct exchange between creators and audiences.
Festival Director Alida Pantone shared:
“The festival grows year after year, attracting more audiences and recognised personalities from the indie film world and beyond. For our fifteenth edition, having Nick Moran and so many UK and international filmmakers on the red carpet makes it especially exciting.”
With its mission to Connect, Inspire, Support, and its motto Stay Focused and Keep Rolling, LRFF has become a destination for anyone who loves independent cinema and wants to discover the next wave of talent alongside celebrated names.
📍 Programme: rollingfilmfestival.com/programme
🌐 Official site: www.rollingfilmfestival.com
