The wait is almost over.
Three hundred films. Fifteen Venues. Six Days. The 2022 Aesthetica Short Film Festival starts tomorrow (Tuesday 1 November).
Experience an incredible array of independent films alongside industry-led masterclasses, practical workshops and a host of networking and social opportunities.
There is still time to plan your experience at the film festival. Download the programme here.
Over the past 12 years, Aesthetica has showcased an incredible variety of films in 12 genres – from fun family friendly films, laugh-out-loud comedies and gripping thrillers to insightful documentaries and heart-wrenching dramas. A large selection of previous screenings are available here in Aesthetica’s film library, so you can get ready for the upcoming festival.
This year, Aesthetica introduces #YorkDays, which offers York residents the opportunity to save 50% on Select Festival dates. Residents with a valid York Card can access Unlimited Screenings and exclusive premieres, showcasing the best new talent in the world of independent cinema.
#YorkDays: A New Initiative for York Residents
This year, Aesthetica introduces #YorkDays, which offers York residents the opportunity to save 50% on Select Festival dates. Residents with a valid York Card can access Unlimited Screenings and exclusive premieres, showcasing the best new talent in the world of independent cinema.
Film Screenings
The incredible selection of over 300 film screenings has been curated into six broader categories. Within these are a selection of 10 fitting films that span 12 genres – from comedy, drama and thriller to animation, music video and dance, alongside feature-length narratives and documentaries. Guest programmes from across the global also feature, with this year’s programme welcoming BFI Doc Society, We Are Parable and Iris Prize.
Masterclasses & Workshops
Alongside film screenings, Aesthetic showcase over 60 masterclasses and practical workshops led by diverse and groundbreaking representatives from top industry organisations. This year, interrogating important topics is at the heart of their discussions – sessions range from sustainability and diversity to the ethics of cinema and human rights.
Listen to BAFTA-winning film and television director Tom Kingsley, best known for directing smash hit BBC sitcom Ghosts and This is Going to Hurt, as he discusses how to construct award-winning comedy.
Executive Producer Lizzie Francke will share invaluable insights into her work for the BFI Film Fund, and Philip Baratini – director of the multi-BIFA-winning and BAFTA-nominated thriller Boiling Point– discusses his transition into directing.
Other key representatives include from Sky, BBC Film, Film4, Channel 4, Ubisoft, Framestore, Industrial Light & Magic and Canon in sessions that cover every stage of film production.
Latest Technologies: VR & 360
Aesthetica’s focus on the latest in film production continues with their Virtual Reality Labs. These VR Labs are new to the festival this year and held daily at City Screen, offering opportunities to experience truly immersive storytelling. Explore new worlds and discover 360 cinema.
If you’re fascinated by the potential in VR filmmaking, engage with pioneering industry representatives with practical sessions on 360 film, XR tools and augmented reality. Workshops include Writing in 360: Non-Linear Narratives and How to Make a 360 Film, with a focus on teaching participants how to engage with storytelling and production using VR.
Social Events & Parties
Aesthetica is about more than film. It’s about lifelong learning and creating meaningful connections. So, throughout the week, Aesthetica host networking and social opportunities. Their Hey, Sunshine Party is a throwback to the 1970s and 1980s – the perfect midweek opportunity to grab a free gin and tonic and experience the classics.
Relax opposite one of York’s best-known historical landmarks – Clifford’s Tower – at the Meet the Filmmakers social, a chance to meet fellow filmmakers and forge friendships within the festival circuit. The renowned Friday Night Party, held at 1331, is another ideal chance to join in with the festivities or re-group with new friends.
#YorkDays tickets start from £12.50 on Select Festival Dates. Visit: asff.co.uk/tickets
Discover the vast array of incredible cinema and be inspired at the 2022 Aesthetica Short Film Festival. Be part of it in-person from 1-6 November and online until 30 November.
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