Meet the UK Festivals

Directors from four of the UK’s leading film festivals - BFI London Film Festival, Edinburgh International Film Festival, Glasgow Film Festival and Leeds International Film Festival - share their views on programming, audiences, and what makes UK festivals distinct.

Moderated by Zac Ntim (Deadline), the panel explores how festivals support talent development, global circulation, and creative risk-taking.

📍 Recorded live at the UK Pavilion during the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

Speakers:

CHRIS FELL | Director
Leeds International Film Festival

ALLISON GARDNER | Director
Glasgow Film Festival

KRISTY MATHESON | Director
BFI Festivals

PAUL RIDD | CEO & Festival Director
Edinburgh International Film Festival

Moderator:

ZAC NTIM | International Film Reporter
Deadline