Programme Sections
At LIFF we present an epic and unique selection of new feature films which represents a much wider world of great filmmaking than you can normally experience in cinemas. Some are previews of films that will be released in cinemas later and you can be among the first in the UK to see them, while many will not be released and LIFF may be your only chance to see them. We also present an extensive selection of new short films from Yorkshire, across the UK, and around the world, most of which you can only see on the big screen during LIFF, and retrospectives with older features including rarely-screened classics and discoveries from film archives.
Films at LIFF are programmed across five sections: Constellation for fiction features; Cinema Versa for documentary features; Fanomenon for genre features and shorts; LIFF SHORTS; and a retrospective. We also present LIFF Social, a series of social activities for you to enjoy alonsgide screenings.
You can find information about programme sections at LIFF 2026 and a full list of films in each section by selecting the links below.
Themes
Constellation
Constellation is our main programme section where we preview many of the most talked about films of the year, and present UK Premieres of films from exciting new filmmakers in our feature film competition.
Cinema Versa
In Cinema Versa we assemble some of the most immersive and fascinating documentaries of the year, exploring technology, identity and the world around us.
Fanomenon
Fanomenon is the home at LIFF for genre films, especially those on the fantastic side of cinema, and including big screen fantasy, sci-fi, horror, cult animation, dark comedies, gripping thrillers, and much more.
LIFF SHORTS 2026
A huge selection of hand-picked shorts from Yorkshire, across the UK, and around the world.
Retrospective: The City Plays Itself
In the year that the city of Leeds turns 400, this special retrospective for the 40th Leeds International Film Festival takes a panoramic look at cities and urban life on film.
LIFF Social
We’ve teamed up with venues across Leeds to highlight fun, social activities during LIFF.