Filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals will come together for three days of world-class cinema in Milton Keynes.

A major new addition to the UK's cultural calendar is set to arrive this summer as the 2 Counties Independent Film Festival (2CIFF) launches its inaugural event in the heart of Milton Keynes. Designed as an international celebration of independent filmmaking, the festival will run from August 21-23 at MK Gallery and the Sky Room Cinema.

2CIFF will showcase up to 100 carefully selected films from around the world while championing emerging talent from Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and beyond. The festival aims to become a hotspot for filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals, combining outstanding cinema with networking, education and celebration.

Festival Founder and Director Iago Montgomery Jarvis said: "Our vision has always been to create a festival that is genuinely filmmaker-focused while providing audiences with an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals will come together for three days of world-class cinema in Milton Keynes at the 2 Counties Independent Film Festival.

placeholder image — Filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals will come together for three days of world-class cinema in Milton Keynes at the 2 Counties Independent Film Festival.

“Independent film has an extraordinary ability to tell bold, original and diverse stories, and we're proud to provide a platform where emerging voices can stand alongside international talent. We hope 2CIFF becomes a festival that filmmakers and audiences return to year after year."

Festivalgoers can expect three packed days of screenings, filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, workshops, networking events, receptions and social gatherings. The festival will finish on a high in a prestigious awards ceremony recognising the festival's outstanding films and creative talent.

From compelling dramas and thought-provoking documentaries to comedy, horror, science fiction and animation, the programme has been designed to celebrate the breadth and diversity of contemporary independent cinema.

Festival Co-Director Aman Dhillon added: "We're proud to shine a spotlight on local filmmaking talent and create opportunities for emerging filmmakers to share their work with new audiences. 2CIFF is also about making independent film more accessible, bringing exciting and diverse stories to our community that might not otherwise be screened in this area."

With internationally recognised studios, educational institutions and creative businesses located across the region, the festival seeks to shine a spotlight on local talent while connecting it with the international independent film community.

Tickets are now on sale, with options including Opening Night, Awards Night, individual day passes, Weekend Passes and VIP Weekend Passes.

For full programme information and tickets, visit www.2ciff.com.