The inaugural 2 Counties Independent Film Festival (2CIFF) will bring filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals together for three days of world-class independent cinema from 21–23 August 2026.
Milton Keynes, UK – A major new addition to the UK’s cultural calendar is set to arrive this summer as the 2 Counties Independent Film Festival (2CIFF) launches its inaugural edition from 21–23 August 2026 at MK Gallery and the Sky Room Cinema in the heart of Milton Keynes.
Designed as an international celebration of independent filmmaking, 2CIFF will showcase up to 100 carefully selected films from around the world while championing emerging talent from Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and beyond. The festival aims to become a vibrant meeting place for filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals, combining outstanding cinema with networking, education and celebration.
Festivalgoers can expect three packed days of screenings, filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, workshops, networking events, receptions and social gatherings, culminating in a prestigious Awards Ceremony recognising the festival’s outstanding films and creative talent.
From compelling dramas and thought-provoking documentaries to comedy, horror, science fiction and animation, the programme has been designed to celebrate the breadth and diversity of contemporary independent cinema.
Speaking about the launch of the festival, Festival Founder and Director Iago Montgomery Jarvis said:
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome audiences and filmmakers to the very first 2 Counties Independent Film Festival. Our vision has always been to create a festival that is genuinely filmmaker-focused while providing audiences with an unforgettable cinematic experience. Independent film has an extraordinary ability to tell bold, original and diverse stories, and we’re proud to provide a platform where emerging voices can stand alongside international talent. We hope 2CIFF becomes a festival that filmmakers and audiences return to year after year.”
Festival Co-Director Aman Dhillon further commented: “We’re proud to shine a spotlight on local filmmaking talent and create opportunities for emerging filmmakers to share their work with new audiences. 2CIFF is also about making independent film more accessible, bringing exciting and diverse stories to our community that might not otherwise be screened in this area.”
While welcoming submissions from across the globe, 2CIFF also celebrates the flourishing film and television communities of Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire. With internationally recognised studios, educational institutions and creative businesses located across the region, the festival seeks to shine a spotlight on local talent while connecting it with the international independent film community.
The festival will take place at MK Gallery, one of the region’s leading cultural venues, with screenings hosted in the state-of-the-art Sky Room Cinema. Situated in the centre of Milton Keynes, the venue offers easy access to restaurants, hotels, bars and entertainment, making 2CIFF an ideal destination for a weekend celebrating independent films.
Created by filmmakers and industry professionals with extensive experience across directing, producing, acting, screenwriting and stunt coordination, 2CIFF has been built with a simple mission: to celebrate exceptional storytelling, support emerging talent and create an inspiring festival experience for both filmmakers and audiences.
Tickets are now on sale, with options including Opening Night, Awards Night, individual day passes, Weekend Passes and VIP Weekend Passes.
The organisers are encouraging film lovers, creatives and visitors alike to be part of the festival’s inaugural year and help launch what they hope will become a significant annual event for Milton Keynes and the wider region.
For full programme information and tickets, visit www.2ciff.com.
