Established in 1947 as the International Festival of Documentary Films, the Edinburgh International Film Festival is renowned around the world for discovering and promoting the very best in international cinema - and for heralding and debating changes in global filmmaking. EIFF seeks to spotlight the most exciting and innovative new film talent, in a setting steeped in history.
Intimate in its scale, ambitious in its scope, and fuelled by pure passion for cinema in all its manifestations, focusing on artistic quality and excellence, the festival explores new ideas in cinema, inviting local and international audiences to engage with a dynamic programme of features, documentaries, shorts and experimental cinema.
What makes it special?
- The Film Festival provokes and excites whilst exploring new concepts and innovative approaches in cinema. This festival attracts an audience wide and large bringing together locals and international film-lovers.
- The innovative programme features short films, experimental cinema and documentaries across a range of dynamic genres.
- One major attraction is the variety of notable film premieres that take place in Edinburgh, including Blade Runner, Alien, Back to the Future, Taxi Driver, Annie Hall, Withnail & I, The Usual Suspects, Amelie, The Hurt Locker, Amy and many, many more
It was in the place where this all began and in the place where I started watching films and fell in love with films. I could never have imagined that I would present a film in the festival, let alone, present it on opening night.
Charlotte Wells, Film Director
