Manchester is about to become the ultimate hub for cinephiles as the Manchester Film Festival (MANIFF) returns for its 12th year. Starting tomorrow, March 19, the 11-day event will showcase an expansive lineup of 52 feature films. Cinema fans can catch these screenings across several iconic city spots, with the festival running through March 29.

This year’s program is packed with exclusive content, including eight world premieres and nine UK premieres. Festival Director Neil Jeram-Croft and the selection committee have curated a diverse mix of independent narratives and documentaries to fill the schedule. The Odeon Great Northern will once again serve as the central hub for the 2026 screenings, hosting the bulk of the festival’s high-profile debuts.

Beyond the feature-length films, the festival provides a vital platform for emerging talent through its extensive short film categories and filmmaker Q&A sessions. Tickets and full festival passes are currently available via the official Manchester Film Festival website. The event remains a cornerstone of the UK’s independent film circuit, highlighting the city's role as a northern powerhouse for the creative arts.