Wednesday 4th November
Film Festival 2026
Bringing the creativity of the Armed Forces to the Big Screen
The festival showcases work and talent from veterans, service leavers, and military families across every corner of the industry, not just those in front of or behind the camera, but roles across production, technical, craft, and business functions.
Through screenings, panels, and networking opportunities,
we connect this community directly with industry professionals, employers, and mentors.
Why we do what we do
Whether you're here to submit, connect, or discover new talent — welcome to Creative Forces UK
Share authentic stories through film.
Develop creative and digital skills.
Connect with industry professionals.
Reach national audiences.
Challenge perceptions of military life.
Promote wellbeing through creative expression.
Celebrate the positive contribution of the Armed Forces Community.
Creative Forces UK Film Festival was founded to build a bridge between the Armed Forces community and careers in film and television.
Military service builds discipline, teamwork, technical precision, and the ability to perform under pressure — qualities that translate directly into an industry built on collaboration and craft.
We showcase work and talent from veterans, service leavers, and military families across every part of the industry — not just directors and actors, but the camera operators, editors, production managers, sound designers, writers, and every other role that makes film and TV possible.
We're committed to opening real pathways from service into a creative career — through showcases, mentorship, and direct connections with industry professionals and employers who value what our community brings.
Submissions for the Film Festival 2026
Further details can be found on the FilmFreeway submissions page however, please contact us for further advice if required.
For the inaugural Creative Forces UK Film Festival, in collaboration with Film Essex Office, we will be simplifying the categories into just two: Documentary and Drama.
Documentary will cover everything which would normally be categorised as factual so includes any film that shows real facts, events and/or people.
Drama covers anything that is fictional which means entirely an invention of your imagination. Qualifying films can be in any genre (for example: thriller, action, horror, comedy or romance) and be either drama or comedy.
In terms of submissions, the following applies to ALL films.
It must:
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be no shorter than 3 minutes and no longer than 20 minutes - including all titles.
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be submitted in MP4 format but the film can be shot on any camera, including SmartPhones.
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be the original work of the Entrant (or the Entrant must control any relevant rights).
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have any necessary clearances (i.e. music, cast etc)
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be in the English Language
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not contain any offensive, defamatory, obscene or discriminatory language or be in breach of any law.
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not contain content which may be contrary to the Official Secrets Act.
DIRECTING • WRITING • PRODUCTION • CINEMATOGRAPHY
Production
Mastering the technical backbone of filmmaking, from camera operation to sound engineering and production management.
Craft
Specialised expertise in cinematography, lighting, and set design, bringing visual storytelling to life through technical precision.
Writing
Developing compelling narratives and scripts that resonate with audiences and define the creative direction of a film project.
Transferrable Skills
Taking the skills learned through a military career and transferring them to the Film and TV industry. From technical advisor to caterer to make-up artist.
OUR JOURNEY
From Service to Screen
DOUGIE BRIMSON. Award-winning author, screenwriter and military advocate with extensive experience across media, storytelling and the creative industries. Bringing the Film Festival to life fulfils an ambition.
Dougie served in the Royal Air Force for 18 years.
Together they will provide strategic leadership, industry connections and sector credibility to establish the festival as a nationally recognised event.
WENDY FAUX. Founder of the Creative Forces initiative and a respected advocate for military creativity, culture and community engagement, with significant experience delivering successful military-focused cultural programmes and events. Wendy has served in the British Army for 35 years...and still counting!
Behind the Scenes
Stay informed with the latest stories, industry updates, and inspiring journeys from our creative veterans community.
Connect with Us
creativeforcesuk@pm.me
London, United Kingdom
