Enjoy the Chichester International Film Festival this summer

The Chichester International Film Festival returns once more this summer and whether you’re a total  film buff or just enjoy taking in the occasional blockbuster, there’s something for everyone.

From Friday 5^th to Sunday 28^th August, a varied programme of events will include three open air screenings in Priory Park: Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story; Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis, and Disney Pixar’s Lightyear. Book your tickets now and don’t forget the picnic, camping chairs and blankets!

The festival also offers an eclectic mix of classic films from the archive, fantastic premieres, Q&As with filmmakers and much more. Films and events are being added to the programme over the coming weeks, so take a look and don’t miss out on a brilliant summer of film.

Local cinemas

If the festival whets your appetite for film, don’t stop there. Chichester Cinema at New Park is not only the main hub of this annual event but it’s the city’s very own independent cinema. In addition to showing around 500 films a year from across the world, it also presents live screen performances and hosts film courses, Q&As and guest speakers.

You can also watch all the latest films at the 10-screen Cineworld complex in Chichester. There’s a free car park, so you can save your parking meter money for popcorn instead, or you could make a night of it and head to one of the many nearby restaurants.

Join a film club

Do you enjoy making films on your smartphone or camera? Perhaps you’re a budding actor, screenwriter or just interested in learning more about the art of filmmaking. If you’re passionate about the world of film or are looking to develop some skills, get in touch with the Chichester Film & Video Makers. They’ve been making amateur films for over 50 years and host regular club nights for anyone keen to find out more.

West Sussex: setting the scene

We’re lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the country – and we’re not the only ones who think so. West Sussex and Chichester itself has been used as the backdrop for a number of films and TV shows over the years, from classics like the Ruth Rendell Mysteries and Rumpole of the Bailey to blockbusters including The Da Vinci Code, The Man from U.N.C.L.E and A View to a Kill. We’re sure James Bond himself was left both shaken and stirred when filming in the area.

Arundel Castle is one of the most in-demand film locations around. It’s played a starring role in numerous blockbusters over the years, including The Madness of King George, with Nigel Hawthorne and Helen Mirren, and The Young Victoria, starring Emily Blunt.

Rubbing shoulders with the famous 

Actors don’t just film in West Sussex – many of them have made the area their permanent home. Oscar-winner Kate Winslet has lived in West Wittering for a number of years and whilst filming Blackbird in 2018, many scenes were filmed in her personal beachside home so she could stay close to her family.

Other famous faces who live in the area include Michael Ball, Nicholas Lyndhurst and Mr Downton Abbey himself, Hugh Bonneville. Hugh loves the area so much that he was even appointed the Deputy Lieutenant of West Sussex in 2019.

Whether you’re interested in coming along to one of the many events being held during the Chichester International Film Festival or you just fancy a tour of some of the beautiful locations to have graced our screens, why not head to Chichester to see what all the fuss is about?