I WILL TELL INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Overview

As part of its landmark 20th edition, the I Will Tell International Film Festival is launching #NotJustStories — a global filmmaker campaign celebrating the meaning behind the stories we tell. We’re inviting filmmakers not only to submit their films, but to share one scene, moment, or idea from their work that matters deeply to them personally. From 1 - 30 June, we are partnering with Post On Purpose and for every qualifying post, I Will Tell will contribute $5 toward organisations supporting filmmakers and underrepresented voices in the industry. Follow us on Instagram @iwilltellfilmfestival for more details. The I Will Tell International Film Festival is not just a place to screen films — it is a space where films are experienced, and what they spark continues beyond the screen. For two decades, we have curated powerful, courageous storytelling from around the world — from early short films by emerging independent filmmakers to films that have gone on to win BAFTA and Academy Awards. Filmmakers and contributors across this journey have included artists such as Ava DuVernay, Lily James, Lashana Lynch, David Oyelowo, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Ken Loach, alongside a wider community of acclaimed actors, musicians and filmmakers. But what defines I Will Tell is not just what is screened — it’s what happens in the room. Each film sits within a carefully curated experience where audiences don’t just watch, but engage. Screenings are paired with intentional post-film dialogue featuring filmmakers, cultural voices and global perspectives — including conversations with global figures such as Raymond Santana, alongside UN representatives, country ambassadors and subject experts. Music and the wider creative arts are woven into the fabric of the festival, shaping the atmosphere around each screening. From live performance to curated artistic elements, these layers deepen the experience — allowing stories to be felt, not just understood. At its heart, the festival is drawn to stories that reveal something true — about who we are, the world we live in, and what it means to love and lead with courage. We create space for those stories to be encountered fully — with openness, honesty and a generosity of spirit that reflects the deeper values behind the festival. Now in its 20th year, the festival brings together filmmakers, audiences and leaders who believe storytelling can shape culture and shift perspectives. Each year, we select a limited number of films for the programme. If your film carries truth — and you’re ready for it to be experienced, not just watched — we invite you to submit.

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

Legitimacy Analysis

Trust Signals

Festival Details

FilmFreeway communityGold festival

• Filmmaker

  Thank you, IWTIFF team. Being part of such a fantastic film festival, a lovely experience, with friendly communication and promptness, was an honour. I hope that the film festival will constantly develop.

• Filmmaker

  We were so honored to have "Stoop Chat with Maani & Mr. Sweat" in "I Will Tell" this year. Mr. Sweat passed away a week before the screening and we were so appreciative for the compassion Jenny showed our team and the beautiful, touching celebration of his legacy on your social media feed.

• Filmmaker

  It is not good not bad

• Filmmaker

  My short film Soul Tide was selected and screened at the I Will Tell International Film Festival at Genesis Cinema, and it was such a wonderful experience. The post-screening Q&A was a real highlight, it was great to engage with the audience and share more about the story behind the film. Jenny Lee and her team were absolutely lovely and created such a welcoming, inspiring atmosphere for filmmakers. I’m grateful to have been part of a festival that celebrates powerful storytelling and meaningful conversations.

• Filmmaker

  Your festival looked amazing. Thank you for selecting our film.

FilmFreeway reviews are filmmaker opinions, not our score. Cross-check red flags before paying fees.

Related Festivals in United Kingdom