The Ealing Film Festival is back from 2–4 October 2025 and is set to be its biggest yet for the borough with over 200 film entries submitted from 36 countries — and there’s still time to enter.
The festival, founded in 2020, continues to grow in profile, showcasing a diverse mix of storytelling talent from around the world. Screenings will be held at Ealing Picturehouse and Act One cinemas, culminating in a grand finale and awards ceremony.
A key part of this year’s festival is the expanded ‘Homegrown’ category which aims to spotlight local creativity.
Festival co-director Russell England said: “We want to give the next generation of filmmakers a platform and an audience. The ‘Homegrown’ category celebrates the rich diversity of local film-making talent.”
Mr England added: “This year we are broadening the award to include Ealing and its neighbouring boroughs. So, if you live, study or have made your short film in Ealing, Harrow, Brent, Hillingdon, Hammersmith and Fulham, or Hounslow boroughs, then your work, if selected, will be eligible for this prize.”
Last year’s overall winner, Matthew Reese, came from the ‘Homegrown’ section with his short film How To Build A Life, which scooped three awards.
Mr Reese saidL “‘Everyone involved poured so much passion and heart into this. It was a privilege to be included in the 2024 line-up. To come away with three awards for ‘Homegrown’, Best Documentary and the Grand Jury Prize was just incredible.”
Submissions are open via FilmFreeway for short films of up to 20 minutes. Early bird discounts are available and Ealing residents can apply for fee waivers.
