Sheffield DocFest has announced the full public programme for its 32nd edition, taking place from 18–23 June 2025 across key venues in the city. With 116 films from 68 countries, the festival features 51 World Premieres, 16 International Premieres, 8 European Premieres and 39 UK Premieres, reflecting the global scale and cultural diversity of the event.
Opening the festival is Still Pushing Pineapples, the world premiere of Kim Hopkins’ heartfelt documentary about Dene Michael, former singer of Black Lace, as he attempts a musical comeback while caring for his ageing mother.
This year’s Guests of Honour are Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, co-founders of World of Wonder, who will feature across four special talks. Public talks also include appearances from Professor Brian Cox, Oobah Butler, Alice Aedy and Ronan Farrow, among others.
The Alternate Realities programme welcomes its first solo artist exhibition, Collateral Echoes by Baff Akoto, combining immersive technology with powerful storytelling around racial injustice and memory. The VR Cinema also returns with works including Impulse: Playing with Reality, narrated by Tilda Swinton, and Walking Alone, Text You When I’m Home.
The Podcast Stories strand presents live editions of Bad Gays and Here We Go! The Art of the Football Chant, while the First Impressions series offers exclusive previews of new factual TV, including 7/7: Homegrown Terror and Murder in Glitterball City.
Strands across the film programme include Rhythms, Rebellions, People & Community and Journeys, spotlighting stories of resistance, identity, creativity and global connection. A wide range of events will be followed by Q&As and extended conversations with filmmakers and special guests.
DocFest 2025 is supported by the BFI Audience Projects Fund (National Lottery), Sheffield City Council and Arts Council England. Tickets and Festival Passes are on sale now.
18–23 June 2025
Tickets at sheffdocfest.com
