What's On / Bristol Concerts, Theatre & Dance / cinema

Cinema & Independent Film in Bristol

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Bristol's Cinema Scene

Headfirst aims to cover all the events that make this city special and so we’re really pleased that this also includes cinema. We consider the The Cube cinema an essential asset to Bristol, a venue with ethics and enthusiasm to match its innovative programming. Over the past few years we have seen this volunteer driven ‘microplex’ provide a launchpad for emerging Bristol artists, ranging from filmmakers and performance artists to theatres shows and alternative musicians. Less experimental but equally as prolific, The Watershed hosts discussions and independent film festivals alongside its world cinema programming.

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What our editors say

“Cinema Transexuál, Bristol’s premier transexual cinema event, is going BIG! Join us for a night of celebration, exuberance and homoeroticism mediated by the game of tennis all at the UK’s first Trans Pride IMAX screening.”
From: CINEMA TRANSEXUÀL PRESENTS - CHALLENGERS IN IMAX

“Expect comfy seating, a feel-good film, snacks to nibble on, and an easygoing atmosphere focused on connection, comfort, and fun. There’s no pressure, no awkward icebreakers — just a laid-back night to relax, laugh, and enjoy being part of a friendly crowd.”
From: Girls movie night

“As part of LGBTQ+ History Month, and as a special Valentine’s celebration of love in all its forms, Eastside Community Trust, in partnership with Queer Vision, presents Drip Like Coffee – a tender, intimate film that explores queer romance, desire and the courage to embrace one’s truth.”
From: FILM NIGHT: Drip Like Coffee

“This year’s headline feature is Charlie Chaplin’s The Kid (1921), a landmark in film history and Chaplin’s first full-length masterpiece. Hilarious, heartfelt, and unforgettable, The Kid captures Chaplin at the peak of his creative powers, blending visual comedy with deep emotional resonance.”
From: Silent Comedy Gala 2026: The Kid

“Strongroom has been criminally underseen for decades, but with its restoration by the BFI, we can now revel in its immacutely constructed narrative and its portrait of the seedy underbelly of 60s London. Strongroom's main appeal lies in its gripping, race-against-the-clock storyline - the film wastes not one second of its 80 minute running time - but with its sympathetic portrayal of both the working-class robbers and the bourgeois bank staff, this is much more than "just" a genre film. ”
From: Strongroom 8pm