Drop in and out of a programme of short films screening throughout the day in our cinema curated by The Ultimate Picture Palace, Film Oxford and the Leys Festival.
The Ultimate Picture Palace is Oxford’s oldest independent cinema. Founded in 1911 and community-owned since 2022, it shows a mix of independent, international, and classic films all in a cosy single-screen auditorium.
Film Oxford is a local arts charity championing an inclusive creative culture across Oxfordshire. To celebrate their 40th anniversary, they are offering a free programme of activities throughout 2026, Lights Camera Oxford, funded by the National lottery Heritage Fund and supported by Oxford City Council.
Leys Festival is a showcase of creativity, talent and energy across Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys, from music and dance to sports, arts & crafts, and more. It is co-created by local residents of Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys in collaboration with the Schwarzman Centre.
All films are suitable for all ages.
Part of Open House, a free festival day of performances and events open to everyone.
Film Shorts: what's on
10:30 - 11:45 May Day
presented by The Ultimate Picture Palace
A feature-length documentary by Nocturne Productions exploring Oxford’s thousand-year-old May Morning tradition, one of the city’s most iconic annual celebrations. Introduced by the director Max Morgan and producer Isaaq Tomkins.
12:00 - 12:45 Open Door Jericho 1974
presented by Film Oxford
A 1974 BBC documentary capturing everyday life in Jericho and its strong sense of community during a time of change. Produced by local resident Maggie Black.
13:00 - 13.45 Oxford Community Short Films
presented by Film Oxford
A selection of short films made with Oxford communities, including Twist & Shout, 10 Voices, Spaces We Made Our Own and Going Out Coming Out — exploring local memories, creativity, identity and social change.
14:00 - 15:00 Olive Gibbs: A Remarkable Woman
A documentary by Christopher Baines and Helen Sheppard celebrating the life of Olive Gibbs — twice Lord Mayor of Oxford, peace campaigner and tireless advocate for education, equality and community action. Introduced by the directors.
15:00 - 15:30 One People, One Place
celebrating the community behind the Leys Festival
A series of specially commissioned new short films by filmmaker Samuel Mansel, celebrating the Leys Festival, and the community of people behind the festival's message of One People, One Place.
Explore more at Open House
