Aesthetica is a five day jam-packed, independent film festival and a gateway to a myriad of international film. It offers an incredible range of masterclasses and workshops, constant film screenings, fun games,VR experiences and many networking opportunities. The best part is, it’s all right here in York!
It is refreshing to see such an expansive and dynamic film festival happening outside of the country’s capital, with Aesthetica screening 300 films and hosting 60 masterclasses this year for the people of York. These masterclasses come from the likes of the New York Times, BBC, Film 4 and Ridley Scott Associates, so there is something for everyone at this year’s festival. The speakers lined up are incredibly knowledgeable and informative, so this is a perfect opportunity for anyone looking to be involved in the film industry.
Perhaps the most exciting and accessible aspect of the Aesthetica Film Festival this year is the UNESCO EXPO taking place at Guildhall from 7-9 November. This is a completely free event, open to all, which will see 25 companies exhibiting their work, discussing how they got into the industry and sharing opportunities to try out new projects. Speaking on the UNESCO EXPO, Director of Aesthetica, Cherie Federico, says:
“The UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO is one of the most exciting and enriching experiences to celebrate the UK’s creative industries. In our region, we are working on a global stage and the EXPO celebrates 10 years of designation whilst also looking forward to how York can position itself as a national and international leader in the sector, creating jobs, driving inward investment and developing clear educational pathways.”
It’s not just film that will be spoken about at this event though, as creatives will also share their experiences in Design, VFX and Games. Speaking of games, the festival will also offer Interactive Media and Gaming labs at Hospitium, Museum Gardens throughout the week. In partnership with UAL’s London College of Communication and XR Stories, Aesthetica aims to expand the boundaries of cinema and technology by displaying the endless possibilities surrounding multi-sensory experience and film. One which sounds particularly interesting this year is the Cultural Tapestries collection. The collection is said to “weave together heritage, resilience and tradition, from the Māori legends of Aotearoa to the struggles of Palestinian women preserving their homes.”
There are hundreds of events to look out for across the festival, so how are you meant to navigate your way through them all? Well you can find Aesthetica’s full programme here which lists all of the events in handy timetables, but below are some specific events to keep an eye out for:
- Film Poster Exhibition
The art behind any film is integral. Film posters have a long history originating with the French short L’Arroseur Arrosé. Aesthetica is thrilled to bring back the Film Poster Exhibition for the second year running! This year’s edition is sure to be a show-stopper, displaying 50 pieces from the festival’s Official Selection. (6-10 November, 09:30-23:00, City Screen)
- Sound Installation: Where Are You Really From?
The common question, “Where are you Really From?” doesn’t have a simple answer. Sound artist Vendela Haakonsen conducted interviews with eight people from diverse backgrounds to uncover what the question truly seeks to understand, exploring themes of belonging, racism and the profound impact of being “othered.” Experience live performances every day of the festival. (Daily 14:00-15:00, City Screen Basement)
- The Art of Screenwriting: In Conversation With Matt Greenhalgh
Matt Greenhalgh is a five-time BAFTA-nominated and award winning screenwriter, best known for Control, about Joy Division frontman Ian Curtis; Nowhere Boy, on the early years of John Lennon’s life; and The Look of Love, exploring the life of controversial nightclub owner Paul Raymond. Hear Matt in conversation with Jessica Loveland (Head of New Writing, BBC) as they discuss his writing career. (7 November, 11:30, Yorkshire Museum)
- Between Art and Cinema: Identity, Memory and History
Jasmina Cibic combines film, sculpture and installation to explore ‘soft power’. Her work often explores the construction of national cultures, their underlying ideologies, political goals and uses, as well as the soft power of the arts, particularly architecture. (7 November, 14:30, York Theatre Royal Studio)
- Women in Screen Happy Hour
The Women in Screen Happy Hour is a celebration that recognises and promotes the achievements of women across the Film, TV, Games and XR industries. It brings together cinematographers, directors, producers, developers and writers to network. The event is open to all women and female-identifying individuals at the festival. (6 November, 17:15-18:15, Yorkshire Museum)
The festival will come to an end on Sunday 10 November with an Awards Ceremony where prizes are awarded for the best film in each genre, as well as the Best of Fest and Special Guest Awards. This will take place from 16:30-19:00 at Yorkshire Museum.
Aesthetica Film Festival will take place across York from 6-10 November. All students living in York are eligible for the York Residents Day Pass which is at a reduced cost of £22.50. You can find all information surrounding the festival here.
