UK’s largest Celebration of Diverse Stories and Underrepresented Filmmakers
Submit to our 6th edition, Sunrise Film Festival is a BIFA & Grierson Qualifying Sunrise Film Festival that takes place from 19 to 22 August 2027 in Lowestoft, Suffolk.
Why Sunrise Film Festival?
As Suffolk’s biggest film festival, we’re passionate about creating an inclusive platform for filmmakers here in East Anglia.
Sunrise Film Festival is a film festival that makes film accessible and proudly showcases independent films to audiences across overlooked communities in the UK.
We’ve proudly been the bright colourful film festival since 2021 loved by filmmakers for the friendly grassroots feel. We’re a small team, but our festival pacts impact, showcasing film in one of the most deprived communities in England and we’ve awarded as well as showcased some impactful stories along the way.
Be part of an inclusive platform
Be part of our friendly festival, with an inclusive community feel and get discovered by our diverse engaged audience.
Be awarded & celebrated
Be in with a chance of being awarded and championed, and if you're not a nominee your film may still be part of our official selection.
Find Inspiration
Be with like-minded filmmakers & cinema lovers, discover new opportunities in an inspiring comfortable coastal setting.
Gain Knowledge
Be surrounded by fellow film lovers, learn something new with talks and screenings of our official selection + so much more.
Discover What Made Our 2026 Festival
Our most exciting edition yet, featuring 263 films across 4 days, spanning 34 countries.
We’re proudly championing diverse storytelling with a remarkable 68% F-Rated lineup.
Submit to our 2027 Edition
Want to have the chance of having your films shown on the big screen as part of our 6th edition of the BIFA & Grierson Qualifying Sunrise Film Festival in 2027?
What Past Filmmakers Say
Sarah Beeby, Gardening
“This is a really lovely festival and definitely not one to miss. They paid a lot of attention to detail and made you feel very special as a film maker. Highly recommend.”
Louisa Connolly-Burnham, Sister Wives
“The team were lovely and made the whole process really easy and stress-free. Their communication was great, and it was clear they’re passionate about supporting filmmakers. You could tell the organisers put a lot of thought into curating the lineup. They really cares about filmmakers, and I highly recommend it. Can’t wait to submit again! Louisa Connolly-Burnham x”
Wale Adetula, Yam and Egg
“Absolutely enjoyed attending Sunrise. My first time in Lowestoft and it was brilliant. The team were warm and welcoming, I saw some really inspiring films. I will be going back :)”
Madeleine Wynn, Merman
“This was an amazingly well organised, fun film festival. The Sunrise Team take care of everyone really well. They are supportive and kind and communications are excellent. It is also the best value for money of any festival so far!”
Volunteer With Us
- Find out how you can get involved with Sunrise Film Festival, from joining the festival committee to being one of our online pre-selectors or becoming a festival steward.
Discover Our
2025 Judges
Nominated &
Award Winners
