2 Counties Independent Film Festival (2CIFF)
21–23 August 2026 | Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
This is where bold voices break through.
This is where stories find their audience.
This is where filmmakers step into what’s next.
Welcome to 2CIFF.
A new force on the international festival circuit, 2 Counties Independent Film Festival is built for filmmakers who are not waiting for permission — but are ready to be seen.
We champion daring storytelling, fresh perspectives, and the kind of work that stays with an audience long after the screen goes dark.
A Festival Experience — Not Just a Screening
Taking place 21–23 August 2026, 2CIFF unfolds over a vibrant summer weekend at the iconic Milton Keynes Gallery and the state-of-the-art Sky Room Cinema (in collaboration with Curzon Cinemas).
This is not a passive viewing experience. It’s an immersive, high-energy environment where film, art, and industry collide.
Expect:
Premium cinematic screenings
Curated networking events & afterparties inside a contemporary gallery space
Panels, workshops, and industry conversations designed to elevate emerging voices
A dynamic international audience, with easy access from London and beyond
Built by Filmmakers, For Filmmakers
2CIFF is driven by a team of award-winning actors, directors, producers, writers, and stunt professionals—
We understand the journey because we’ve lived it.
Our mission is clear:
to discover, support, and amplify the next generation of global filmmaking talent.
A Smarter, Fairer Festival Model
We’ve stripped away the complexity and made submission simple:
Submit to just ONE main category
If selected, your film is automatically considered for 20+ award categories
Every selected film receives:
Official screening at the festival
2 complimentary tickets for cast & crew
Access to exclusive networking events, talks and all areas of the festival.
Entry to the Gala and awards ceremony
A curated festival goodie bag
Because we believe your focus should be on your film — not navigating submission systems.
A Region at the Heart of Global Cinema
2CIFF is proudly rooted in a region rich with cinematic heritage and future-facing innovation.
From Pinewood Studios and the National Film and Television School (NFTS) to Cardington Studios and the upcoming Universal Studios development, this is a landscape where global cinema is made.
Home to talent such as Emily Atack, Ben Whishaw, and Sophie Rundle, these counties continue to inspire filmmakers shaping the industry today.
A Platform Designed to Grow With You
2CIFF is not just a festival — it’s a movement in its early chapters.
With ambitious plans to expand year-on-year and achieve internationally recognised status, we are building something that filmmakers can grow with, not just submit to.
The Stage Your Film Deserves
Up to 100 selected films screened across the weekend
Judged by a diverse panel of industry experts and VIP guests
A high-profile awards ceremony celebrating excellence across all genres
A festival atmosphere that balances prestige with genuine community
Whether your work is bold, intimate, experimental, or genre-defining —
if it moves an audience, it belongs at 2CIFF.
Submit your film. Join the experience. Be part of what comes next.
