1. Go Big at a Royal Festival Hall Gala
This is the quintessential film festival fantasy. The Galas, held at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall, are public premieres of the year’s most anticipated films. We're talking massive screens,
state-of-the-art sound, and the electric energy of seeing a major movie before anyone else. For the 70th anniversary, the lineup is stacked, with films like Simon Stone’s ‘Elsinore’ and Tony Gilroy’s ‘Behemoth!’ getting the red-carpet treatment. While you might see stars, the best part for a newcomer is the atmosphere. There's no dress code, so you can be comfortable while soaking in the spectacle. It’s the perfect way to understand the scale and excitement of the LFF.
2. Get Inspired at a Screen Talk
Ever wondered how your favorite movies get made? The Screen Talks program offers in-depth interviews with some of the industry's leading actors and directors. The 2026 lineup is a who's who of talent, including Andrew Scott, Ava DuVernay, Sofia Coppola, and Jesse Eisenberg. These aren't stuffy lectures; they are candid conversations about creativity, career highs and lows, and the passion behind the projects. Hearing a director like Brad Bird break down his process or an actor like Cynthia Erivo discuss her craft provides a new appreciation for the art form. Many talks sell out, but it's worth checking for last-minute tickets to get this close to cinematic genius.
3. Explore the Future with LFF Expanded
If you think film is just what you see on a flat screen, LFF Expanded will blow your mind. Now in its sixth year, this strand is dedicated to immersive art, virtual reality (VR), and video games that push the boundaries of storytelling. For 2026, you can experience 'Water Body,' an immersive installation tracing the planet's hidden water flows, or visit the Games Lounge at the BFI IMAX to play visionary indie titles. First-timers will find it’s an incredibly accessible entry point into the world of XR, showing how technology is creating powerful new ways to experience narratives. Many of the events, like the AI-guided 'Red the Ocean Around U,' are even free to drop into.
4. Take a Chance on the Surprise Film
For the adventurous moviegoer, the Surprise Film is the festival’s most thrilling tradition. You buy a ticket without knowing what you’re about to see. In past years, audiences have been treated to secret premieres of major films like 'Ferrari,' 'The Menu,' and 'C'mon C'mon'. The fun is in the speculation beforehand—chatting with fellow audience members, trying to piece together clues—and the collective gasp of excitement when the title is finally revealed, often by the director themselves. It’s a pure, unadulterated celebration of cinema that reminds you of the simple joy of discovering a new favorite film.
5. Discover a Hidden Gem in a Thematic Strand
With over 250 works in the program, the thematic strands—Love, Debate, Laugh, Dare, Thrill, Cult, and more—are your best friend for navigating the schedule. These curated categories help you find films based on your mood, rather than just by director or star power. Want a mind-bending horror flick? Head for the Cult strand. In the mood for a powerful documentary? Try the Debate section. For a first-timer, this is the best way to dig deeper than the headline Galas and find a smaller, more personal film that you might not otherwise get a chance to see in a mainstream cinema. It’s where true festival discoveries are made.
6. Soak It All In at the BFI Southbank Hub
The festival isn't just about what happens inside the theaters. The BFI Southbank serves as the central hub, buzzing with energy from morning to night. It's where you can grab a coffee, pick up tickets, and, most importantly, participate in the 'LFF For Free' program. This includes everything from panel discussions and workshops to DJ nights inspired by festival films. It’s the perfect place to people-watch, debrief on the film you just saw, and feel the connective tissue of the festival community. Simply hanging out here between screenings is an experience in itself and proves that you don't need a ticket to every screening to be part of the action.
