A Night Where Cinematic Excellence Takes Center Stage

After an incredibly successful inaugural Gala, we are back again ✨

Last year’s completely sold out edition brought together filmmakers from all corners of the world to network, exchange ideas, and spark meaningful collaborations. Guests connected with producers, agents and managers over champagne while discussing potential co productions and representation opportunities, creating an atmosphere alive with creativity and possibility.

During the ceremony, we awarded thirty seven prizes to both established professionals and emerging filmmakers with strong authorial voices, many of whom are destined to become future leaders of the industry. We showcased some of the finest work produced this year, celebrating films/projects made with zero budget as well as those created with higher production value. What matters most to us is the story, and many of the films presented were deeply personal and resonated powerfully with our audience.

The Social Impact Award, one of our Grand Prix prizes honouring films that address significant social issues with powerful storytelling, was presented to the animated short Two Black Boys in Paradise, based on a poem by Dean Atta and directed by Baz Sells.

Our main Grand Prix, the Crystal Celestel, a ten kilogram crystal trophy featuring a laser engraved Celestel, was awarded to the powerful short debut The Second Time Around, directed by Jack Howard and starring Caroline Goodall, known for Schindler’s List and Hook, and Hannah Onslow, known for This City Is Ours and Jay Kelly. Caroline Goodall and Hannah Onslow also received a shared award for Best Actress. 

The Best Actor Award was presented to the extraordinary Bill Nighy, known for Love Actually, Pirates of the Caribbean, Living, Shaun of the Dead and Harry Potter.

It was truly an unforgettable night, praised for its exceptional organisation. Many high profile guests even compared our Gala to the major award ceremonies of the industry.

About the International Film Gala

The International Film Gala is a prestigious event dedicated to celebrating cinematic excellence from around the world. Bringing together filmmakers from all backgrounds, the Gala honours exceptional talent across a wide range of categories. With an esteemed panel of judges that includes Academy Award (Oscar®)  and BAFTA winning and nominated filmmakers as well as respected industry experts, the Gala shines a spotlight on outstanding artistry and diverse storytelling.

Held in London at one of the city’s most exclusive and technologically advanced venues, this annual celebration promises, once again, an evening of glamour, inspiration, and recognition for the finest talents in filmmaking.

We invite filmmakers to submit short and feature films in narrative, documentary and animated form, as well as music videos and screenplays including short, feature length and television pilot scripts.