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

“The Oscar-winning Aardman**** classic The Wrong Trousers on the big screen accompanied by a live soundtrack from the 30-piece City of Bristol Brass Band. Expect laughs, live music, and absolutely no wrong trousers – just a glorious celebration of Wallace & Gromit, with a side of Championship brass and brilliance. "Cracking toast, Gromit!"”
From: The Wrong Trousers

“OLUKEMI LIJADU: 'FEEDBACK' Spike Island presents Feedback (31 January–10 May 2026), the largest solo exhibition by Nigerian-British artist, filmmaker and DJ Olukemi Lijadu. Developed through extensive research in Chicago, Lagos and Bristol, Feedback centres around a major film commission and marks a landmark in the artist’s moving image practice.”
From: Spotlight Tours: Phillip Lai 'RAIN / RUIN' and Olukemi Lijadu 'Feedback'

“A body of work exploring the idea of being found. Through the perspectives and disciplines of five different artists, 'findings' are shared through sound, film, text, sculpture and installation. Private view 8th May 6-9pm. Free and open to the public 9th and 10th May 11am-5pm. ⁠ The Island Gallery, First Floor, Bridewell Street, BS1 2QD.⁠ ⁠ Our Dance Studio and Gallery are located on the first floor of the building. Access is limited by two flights of stairs, please see artspace.uk/venue/the-island/gallery-space/ for our full accessibility document.⁠ ⁠ #artspaceevents”
From: When Being Found Begins

“A city walk up Brandon Hill, followed by a screening of Hunt for the Wilderpeople (rated 12A) with our pals at Bristol Queer Cinema Club. 2 miles, about 1 hour walking time. You need a ticket - book a place at https://www.queerhikingbristol.co.uk/hikes/cinema-club Follow QHB on social media: https://www.instagram.com/queerhikingbristol https://www.facebook.com/groups/queer hiking bristol”
From: Queer Hiking Bristol: Walk & film screening with Bristol Queer Cinema Club

“A new film featuring Chris Packham, leading climate and nature scientists, a former general and Jennifer Saunders - all being pretty frank about where things are heading and what can be done about it. People’s Emergency Briefing Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft Monday 27th April, doors from 7pm, film 7:30-8:30pm, discussion until 9:30pm 16+ Tickets are free but donations always welcome #PEBuk ***************** This event is part of the People’s Art Fair @ PRSC – ten days of all things creative, including an open group exhibition of local artists, workshops, events and much more. Fri 24 April – Sun 3 May 2026 @ PRSC Space. Visit https://prsc.org.uk/paf for all the info.”
From: School of Activism Presents: People's Emergency Briefing