Lewis CaliburnMonitor Audio will provide a high-fidelity, immersive sound experience for London’s newest film festival, coming to the capital on 7th May 2025 at the Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel.
The four-day Film Festival is a celebration of the best of British independent film, featuring exclusive premieres and screenings, an awards ceremony, panel talks, networking events and more.
Launched in collaboration between DREAMTOWN Entertainment, Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel, and Goldfinch – the Academy Award and BAFTA-winning production company – CIFF will showcase the best of international cinema with a jury through carefully curated international partnerships and programs.
Audiences can expect a lineup of innovative films, from major premieres to features by emerging filmmakers, along with thought-provoking documentaries and captivating shorts.
As part of Monitor Audio’s ongoing partnership with the Karma Sanctum Soho, the brand’s flagship Cinergy THX, Certified Ultra speaker system and state-of-the-art integrated amplification will deliver the immersive score to every screening.
Festival guests can also enjoy high-fidelity Monitor Audio sound throughout the rest of the hotel as well as the bar and restaurant.
At the heart of CIFF is a mission to give back to the film community. The festival has introduced the Goldfinch Academy Bursary, a charitable initiative designed to assist some of the most deserving new voices in filmmaking, providing them with the tools and resources needed to bring their creative visions to life. The festival is also supporting the Teenage Cancer Trust.
After years of budget cuts and underfunding, the festival aims to supercharge support for British cinema and shine a spotlight on its brightest talents. To further amplify its impact, CIFF will partner with international festivals and jurors, bringing a global perspective to London and highlighting the city as a thriving hub for innovative filmmaking.
The festival panel talks will bring together an eclectic mix of voices from across the industry, offering insights into the future of film, AI, financing, distribution and exclusive ‘in conversation’ Q&As with actors and directors. One of the panels will be hosted by the award-winning female film podcast duo, Girls on Film.
CIFF Co-Founder and Director Ben Charles Edwards says, “CIFF is more than just a film festival—it’s a dynamic platform of partnerships celebrating innovation and creativity in the heart of our city, championing the boldest voices in cinema. There’s a clear gap in the market for a forward-thinking festival like CIFF, one that not only showcases cutting-edge films but is also structured to welcome partnerships and to give back to its film community and support charitable causes. CIFF comes at a crucial time for our industry.”
Actor Tamer Hassan, Co-Owner of Karma Sanctum Soho adds, “The festival is a showcase of some of the most promising talent and productions that the UK has to offer. After years of doom and gloom, we want to encourage filmmakers and give them a platform of support to help them thrive.”
Kirsty Bell, Co-Founder of Goldfinch and Dreamtown says, “Supporting filmmakers has always been at the core of what we do, from financing to production. CIFF takes that a step further through meaningful partnerships. By collaborating with industry leaders like Karma Sanctum Soho and Dreamtown, CIFF not only celebrates British filmmakers but actively invests in their future. Through The Goldfinch Academy Bursary, we’re providing vital financial and mentoring support to emerging talent. CIFF is a testament to the power of collaboration.”
“To be able to sponsor the Cine Film Festival, creative film makers and visionaries to deliver their vision, at every screening – at its sonic best – is something we’re very proud of,” concludes Michael Johnson, Commercial Head, UK & Global Marketing Director, Monitor Audio Group. “To deepen the emotional relationship and connection with the content on screen, through the power of our high-fidelity Cinergy speaker system and amplification is extremely gratifying.”