The Square Film

Latest Independent Film News

Welcome to The Square Film, where we celebrate the art of independent cinema. From emerging filmmakers making their debut at regional festivals to established auteurs pushing boundaries, we cover the films and stories that deserve your attention. Our team of writers and critics bring you weekly updates on production announcements, festival selections, and industry developments that matter to film lovers across the UK.

This week, we're following several promising projects entering post-production in Manchester and Bristol, while Glasgow's independent cinema scene continues to thrive with new venue openings. We've also been tracking submissions for the autumn festival circuit, with strong representation from midlands filmmakers exploring themes of community and resilience.

Festival Spotlight

Film festivals remain the lifeblood of independent cinema, offering platforms for voices that might otherwise go unheard. We provide comprehensive coverage of major and regional festivals, from selection announcements to post-screening discussions. Whether you're a filmmaker seeking submission guidance or a cinephile planning your festival calendar, we've got you covered.

Recent highlights include strong showings from British shorts at several European festivals, and we're excited about the upcoming regional festival season. Edinburgh, Brighton, and Cambridge festivals are all accepting submissions, and we'll be on the ground reporting from each event.

In-Depth Reviews

Our reviews go beyond star ratings. We engage seriously with independent films, exploring their themes, craft, and cultural context. We believe every film deserves thoughtful consideration, whether it's a micro-budget debut or a festival award winner. Our critics come from diverse backgrounds and bring varied perspectives to their writing.

Recent reviews have examined everything from documentary explorations of post-industrial communities to experimental narratives challenging conventional storytelling. We prioritise films showing in independent cinemas and on accessible streaming platforms, helping you discover works you might otherwise miss.

Filmmaker Features

Behind every film is a story of creativity, persistence, and vision. Our feature interviews give filmmakers space to discuss their process, influences, and challenges. We're particularly interested in how directors, writers, and producers navigate the independent landscape, from funding applications to distribution strategies.

We've spoken with first-time directors about their journey from script to screen, experienced cinematographers about visual storytelling, and producers about building sustainable creative practices. These conversations offer insights for aspiring filmmakers and deepen appreciation for the craft among audiences.

Regional Cinema Guide

Independent cinema thrives in community spaces across the UK. We maintain a regularly updated guide to independent cinemas, pop-up screenings, and film societies from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands. These venues are essential to the ecosystem, providing screens for films that never reach multiplex chains.

Many of these spaces operate as social enterprises or volunteer-run organisations, creating gathering places for film communities. We highlight their programming, special events, and membership opportunities. Supporting your local independent cinema means supporting the films we cover and the communities that sustain them.

Industry Insights

The independent film sector faces unique challenges and opportunities. We provide practical coverage of funding bodies, distribution models, and industry trends. Our articles demystify topics like grant applications, crowdfunding strategies, and rights management without jargon or oversimplification.

Recent pieces have examined shifts in streaming distribution, the impact of regional film offices, and emerging models for sustainable filmmaking. We aim to inform both practitioners navigating the industry and audiences curious about how independent films reach their screens.

About Our Approach

The Square Film was founded by film enthusiasts frustrated with coverage that prioritised blockbusters over artistry. We believe independent cinema deserves dedicated, serious attention. Our small editorial team works across the UK, attending festivals, screenings, and industry events to bring you informed, passionate coverage.

We don't accept payment for coverage and maintain editorial independence. Our funding comes from reader support and occasional partnerships with film organisations that share our values. We welcome submissions from filmmakers and publicists, though we retain full editorial control over what and how we cover.

• Weekly news roundups every Friday
• Monthly festival preview and recap features
• Thoughtful reviews published within days of UK releases
• Quarterly filmmaker interview series
• Regional cinema listings updated fortnightly