Liza Fletcher from Walthamstow International Film Festival gives us a guide to the many local cinema initiatives operating in our borough

Waltham Forest has recently garnered national attention for its vibrant community spirit. From standing united against anti-immigration
marches to embracing the symbolic Banksy artwork, the borough has demonstrated its unwavering support and inclusivity towards diverse communities.
The recent opening of Forest Cinema marks a significant milestone, providing a dedicated space for residents to enjoy mainstream films, family favourites, and independent international cinema that reflects the borough’s rich cultural tapestry.
Behind the scenes, a network of dedicated groups and individuals are working tirelessly to bring beloved classic films and
innovative community screenings to cinemas and community spaces throughout Waltham Forest. Below are just some of these local initiatives that are fostering a sense of togetherness and cultural enrichment through the power of film.
Walthamstow International Film Festival
The Walthamstow International Film Festival (WIFF), established in 2010, has become a beloved community event, showcasing films across the borough.
Our festival serves as a platform for emerging local filmmakers, providing them with opportunities to exhibit their work alongside international peers. We champion innovative and independent short films, inspiring young people to pursue careers in film and the creative industries.
With the guidance of a dedicated board of young advisors, we are currently working towards WIFF 2025, which will be based at The Trades Hall in Hoe Street in June 2025 and will feature workshops, networking events, and a strong focus on the communal experience of watching films together.
We believe in the power of shared cinema experiences and prioritise in-person screenings over virtual events. We don’t screen virtual events and prefer the communal experience of watching films from around the corner and films from around the world.
Keeping cinema alive in the borough since 2011, Stow Film Lounge has screened around 650 films to around 50,000 people. In just the last month or so, 2,000 people have attended five screenings, at both outdoor and indoor locations. By collaborating with numerous partners, community organisations and local businesses, they’re reaching diverse, inter-generational audiences with both entertainment and memorable events, often through innovative ways to exhibit film.
Special screening events like Green Borders offer thought provoking, contemporary, challenging and informative films for audiences and bring people together to experience the collective wonder of cinema.
‘Moving Pictures’ shares the joy of cinema with older people in elder care residential homes and in community spaces through-
out Waltham Forest.
Women Over 50 Film Festival (WOFF)

Curated by the Women Over 50 Film Festival (WOFFF), this programme of short films and creative activities brings older people together in communal spaces to watch short films together and to respond to the films through drawing, dancing, writing and chatting.
‘Moving Pictures’ connects with some of the 40% of adults in Waltham Forest who responded to a recent adult social care survey, saying they experience isolation and loneliness. ‘Moving Pictures’ brings joy, creativity and connection to elders in our borough.
Good Shepherd Studios hosts monthly independent high quality film screenings of very diverse, award-winning and some of the best lesser known films. It’s always a really social affair and a great place to meet local creatives. Alongside artists studios, creative workshops and regular wellness events, the cinema gives local filmmakers and film fans the opportunity to connect and share at screenings which often include a Q&A between the community and the filmmaker.
Next up in its events schedule is the Emerging Filmmakers Showcase and The Slow Film Festival.
Good Shepherd Studios Community Cinema

Good Shepherd Studios hosts monthly independent high quality film screenings of very diverse, award-winning and some of the best lesser known films. It’s always a really social affair and a great place to meet local creatives.
Alongside artists studios, creative workshops and regular wellness events, the cinema gives local filmmakers and film fans the opportunity to connect and share at screenings which often include a Q&A between the community and the filmmaker. Next up in its events schedule is the Emerging Filmmakers Showcase.
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