Beyond the Mainstream: The World of Arthouse Cinema
Arthouse films are a cinematic universe apart, where artistic expression reigns supreme over commercial appeal.
These independent productions often challenge conventional storytelling, opting for experimental stories and unconventional (sometimes) challenging visuals. They explore profound themes and questions that resonate deeply with viewers seeking intellectual stimulation. Arthouse cinema is a space for filmmakers to push boundaries, experiment with form, and create truly unique cinematic experiences.
While arthouse films may not boast the same level of mainstream popularity as blockbusters, or afford the celebrity actors, although some do step out of mainstream. Thet have cultivated a dedicated following of cinephiles who appreciate their artistic merit, ‘fans’ see them as a refreshing departure from the endless formulaic plots and predictable outcomes of mainstream cinema, as they invite audiences to engage actively with the story and interpret its meaning. Whether it’s through stunning cinematography, thought-provoking dialogue, or complex characters, arthouse films offer a truly immersive and enriching cinematic experience.
100+ Films, 25+ Countries, 15 Premieres
The Lytham Film Festival is a 3-Day event screening short films and feature films from around the world, whilst supporting and nurturing talent from our region and helping local filmmakers to discover a global audience.
There is also filmmaker Q&A’s, industry speakers and even a mini-Oscars ceremony.
There is also filmmaker Q&A’s, industry speakers and even a mini-Oscars ceremony.
Here’s a taster
Daily – Q&As ![]()
Look out for this symbol in the programme.(linked above)
It means the filmmaker has told us they will be attending and taking part in a Q&A after their screening block.
Look out for this symbol in the programme.(linked above)
It means the filmmaker has told us they will be attending and taking part in a Q&A after their screening block.
Daily – Industry Talks
Check out page 5 of the programme to see the daily talks we have from industry professionals.
These will all be outside in the events tent.
These will all be outside in the events tent.
Sat 21:00 – Music Night – Meet Darius Brubeck
Presented by and featuring a live Q&A with Jazz Legend, Darius Brubeck.
5 Short films, nominated for the John Parr award for Best Music Video, followed by Dariu’s documentary-feature, Playing The Changes
5 Short films, nominated for the John Parr award for Best Music Video, followed by Dariu’s documentary-feature, Playing The Changes
Fri 21:00
& Sat 21:00 – After Dark Screenings – Horror/Thriller Fans
Both these screenings are on the outdoor screen, utilising immersive headphones for the ultimate chill.
Friday night are ‘in-competition’ films, submitted to the festival an nominated for the Best Horror/Thriller award.
Saturday night is a collection of dark and unsettling films curated by Director’s Notes, an online screening and review platform.
Both screenings are 18+, and if you find the Friday night too tame, then the Saturday collection is for you and takes things to another level!
Friday night are ‘in-competition’ films, submitted to the festival an nominated for the Best Horror/Thriller award.
Saturday night is a collection of dark and unsettling films curated by Director’s Notes, an online screening and review platform.
Both screenings are 18+, and if you find the Friday night too tame, then the Saturday collection is for you and takes things to another level!
Sat 13:30 – Film Hub North – Regional Screenings
The curated selection of films here are from Northern Filmmakers whose projects have received funding through Film Hub North, the norther arm of the BFI (British Film Institute) Network. They tell relevant and bold stories about lives and attitudes in our region.
This is followed at 16:00 by an ‘in-competition’ selection of films from our local filmmakers and a group Q&A afterwards.
This is followed at 16:00 by an ‘in-competition’ selection of films from our local filmmakers and a group Q&A afterwards.
Daily - Famous Faces
Lots of famous faces to recognise throughout the festival.
Here’s just a few you might recognise:WHO: Ben Whishaw
Here’s just a few you might recognise:WHO: Ben Whishaw
FROM: James Bond Franchise (Q), Fargo
FILM: Good Boy
WHEN: SUN 25th 16:00
WHO: Kevin McNally
FROM: Pirates of the Caribbean, The Spy Who Loved Me
FILM: Reflections
WHEN: SAT 24th 13:30
WHO: Bruce Jones
FROM: Coronation Street, The Full Monty
FILM: The Heritage
WHEN: FRI 23rd 21:00
WHO: Maxine Peake
FROM: Dinneladies, Funny Cow
FILM: Choked UP
WHEN: SUN 25th 18:30
WHO: Saoirise-Monica Jackson
FROM: Derry Girls, The Decameron
FILM: Liverpool Ferry
WHEN: SAT 24th 13:30
WHO: Tim McInnerNy
FROM: Black Adder, Sherlock
FILM: The Sea
WHEN: SUN 25th 18:30
A veritable all you can eat feast for filmbuffs over 3 days at Lowther Theatre, Lytham with daily and weekend tickets available HERE