In traditional Lift-Off fashion, we bring true independent film from emerging artists around the globe, connecting the UK and international markets. Our aim to maximise artist’s connection with audience, and provide an experimental platform for indie creatives to help nurture voices and launch careers.
With a mixture of fresh talent and festival veterans covering all genres there really is something for everyone! Screening exclusively with our partners Vimeo OnDemand.
MANCHESTER LIFT-OFF FILM FESTIVAL 2022, STARTS MONDAY 14TH MARCH – MONDAY 11TH APRIL.
Winners & Special Mentions: Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival 2022
A massive thank you to everyone who participated in the Manchester Lift-Off Film Festival 2022. It’s been absolutely fantastic having so many filmmakers involved and seeing the global support for true indie film…
The judges’ votes have been counted and added to the audience’s feedback. Huge congratulations to the filmmakers who screened with us! A particular well done to the following films…
Festival Winners
Best Film
(next screening with Lift-Off in London 2022)
Who's Counting?
Dir. Ben Lankester
Synopsis: ‘Who’s Counting?’ tells the story of a couple as they endure the pain and trauma of successive miscarriages.
Best Film
(next screening with Lift-Off in London 2022)
Burn on Arrival
Dir. Owen Gower
Synopsis: Christmas, 1995. As Scotland reels from a devastating loss of industry, a man is trapped in an escalating nightmare.
Forced to follow a series of bizarre and deadly instructions contained in red envelopes, he is soon stranded in the snowy wastes of the Scottish Highlands – his fate bound to a stranger he finds caught in the same.
Best Film
(next screening with Lift-Off in London 2022)
Sometimes They Sing
Dir. Maya Yoncali and Andy McCredie
Synopsis: Amid isolation; two lovers are driven into an upheaval of dreams, physical expression and murmuring stillness.
Season Award Nominations
The Lift-Off Season Awards is an annual event that celebrates the very best of indie film. Following each Lift-Off film festival, films that have excelled in their respective category are nominated and invited to attend the prestigious Lift-Off Season Awards, culminating at the end of the Lift-Off season. Click here for more information about the Lift-Off Season Awards.
The Rebirthing Club
Dir. Valentina Carrasco Thayer
Synopsis:David Adams is a young man who has voluntarily closed his eyes to avoid heartbreak. After life has dealt him so many failed loves, he decides to face his trauma by undergoing a particular therapy that takes place in a swimming pool.
He will be a witness and participant in the therapies of a group of others trying to rid themselves of their fears. As the trainer takes them to their extremes, they will relive their fears and engage in feuds, whilst their bonds of trauma lead them to an unexpected ending.
Follow David as he recounts his memories with the Rebirthing Club.
Best Acting Ensemble
Burn On Arrival
Dir. Owen Gower
Synopsis: Christmas, 1995. As Scotland reels from a devastating loss of industry, a man is trapped in an escalating nightmare.
Forced to follow a series of bizarre and deadly instructions contained in red envelopes, he is soon stranded in the snowy wastes of the Scottish Highlands – his fate bound to a stranger he finds caught in the same
Nominated for Best Actor – James Harkness
DOWN IN PARIS
Dir. Antony Hickling
Synopsis: Richard, a film maker in his forties, is suddenly overwhelmed by anxiety during filming. He walks off set and wanders through the Paris night in search of answers, comfort and inspiration. During his sleepless night, he meets many people, some friendly, some disturbing, some known, some unknown. Richard has to confront his fears and question his deepest desires until the first light of dawn.
Nominated for Best Feature Live Action Narrative