Chester International Film Festival (CIFF) is returning to Storyhouse this spring with a much-anticipated selection of movies and shorts from across the world.

Now in its 39^th year, the festival is a celebration of the very best in contemporary independent cinema from across the globe.

The event includes a hand-picked selection of international film previews, locally curated short film programmes and expert guest speakers.

There will also be two films with post-screening Q&A sessions, a Short Film Programme, Chester Animation Festival, Northern Exposure - a selection of the best short films from the North of England, a Student Showcase and a pair of Festival Classics. 

The festival officially opens on Friday 13 March with a drink's reception and a screening of DJ Ahmet - a crowd-pleasing comedy set in North Macedonia.

Head of cinema at Storyhouse, Nicky Beaumont, said: "We've been honoured to work with Chester Film Society to host the annual international film festival at Storyhouse since 2018, and more recently to partner with the University of Chester on this long running festival.

"Chester International Film Festival is a highlight in our calendar, spotlighting films from around the world and bringing them to audiences at Storyhouse."

Chester International Film Festival is a partnership between Storyhouse, Chester Film Society and the University of Chester,

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Founded in 1970, Chester Film Society champions global storytelling through films which explore diverse cultures, perspectives and themes.

"The festival is a fundamental part of our commitment to bring world cinema to Chester, inviting audiences to discover inspiring films from diverse cultures and voices from across the world," said Susanne Hodder of Chester Film Society.

"We can't wait to share these unique stories with audiences and create an experience that connects our community through film."

On Thursday 19 March, there will be a free screening of Oscar-winning British film Chariots of Fire, in honour of Chester Film Society founding member Derek Smith, who died last September.

Storyhouse Cinema is supported by Film Hub North with National Lottery funding on behalf of the BFI Film Audience Network.

You can find the full line-up of films and events here.