THE SECOND Muslim International Film Festival (MIFF) will take place from 2nd-5th July at the Odeon Luxe West End in Leicester Square.
The festival opens with a gala screening of Hijra and closes with the documentary Human Tide. There’s plenty more to see during the festival, including: •A programme of short films •British drama Ish •Pakistani feature Ghost School •Algerian horror film Roqia •Documentaries Once Upon a Time in Gaza and Birds of War.
The festival will reflect the breadth and intricacies of Muslim storytelling, showcasing compelling and commended new films that celebrate Muslim culture and faith. It will also honour casting director Shaheen Baig, who will receive the festival’s Trailblazer Award during the opening Gala.
The first MIFF took place in 2024 – a year when negative portrayals of Muslims seemed to dominate the mainstream media. Now, pe anything, public perceptions of Muslims seem to be worse – ranging from suspicion through systemic prejudice to outright hostility. MIFF is responding by making sure the programme highlights the rich tapestry of Muslim storytelling.
MIFF is supported by UK Muslim Film (UKMF), a charity working to change perspectives by championing underrepresented talent and voices, both onscreen and behind the camera.
Director of UKMF and Festival Director of MIFF Sajid Varda, has just been awarded an MBE for services to Diversity and Inclusion in the Film and Television Industry. He said, “Returning to London this summer, the Muslim International Film Festival creates a space where audiences and industry come together to experience stories that challenge, inspire and connect. MIFF 2026 celebrates exceptional filmmaking while opening the door to perspectives that are too often overlooked or misunderstood. Across four days in Leicester Square, we will welcome emerging voices alongside internationally recognised filmmakers to present work that is bold, entertaining and deeply human. Alongside our screenings, industry conversations and Script Pitch Live will create opportunities for new talent, fresh ideas and meaningful collaboration. In a world becoming increasingly fragmented, MIFF is a reminder that stories remain one of our most powerful tools to bring people together. Through cinema, we discover worlds, change perceptions and are reminded that understanding one another is still one of the most important acts of our time.”
●For more information, go to the MIFF website and choose the MIFF 2026 option from the list at the top of the page: MIFF website
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