It’s hard to believe, but WOW Wales One World Film Festival 2025 is just two weeks away! From 21 March to 4 April, we’ll be bringing a stunning selection of world cinema to venues across Wales, and we couldn’t be more excited to share this year’s programme with you.
For 24 years, WOW has championed storytelling that inspires, challenges, and connects. Inspired by the UN's declaration of 2025 as the Year of Peace and Trust, our programme features films from across the globe that explore these ideals in all their complexity — sometimes fragile, sometimes tested, but always worth striving for.
We’re kicking off in Bangor on 21 March before heading to Carmarthen, Fishguard, and wrapping up with a week of incredible screenings and events in Aberystwyth. And what a lineup we have waiting for you!
Welsh Premieres and Homegrown Talent
Two of this year’s most exciting features come from Welsh filmmakers. Satu: Year of the Rabbit and The Walk both make their Welsh premieres at WOW, telling stories that bridge cultures and continents. We’ll also showcase a brilliant collection of Made in Wales short films, shining a light on emerging local talent and offering a glimpse into the future of Welsh cinema.
Ecosinema: Stories That Inspire Change
Our Ecosinema programme takes centre stage this year, with urgent and moving films about environmental justice and survival. The UK premieres of The Waste Commons and The Falling Sky offer powerful perspectives on communities fighting for their land and their future, while the Welsh premiere of The Battle for Laikipia highlights the struggle for justice in Kenya. These are stories that remind us of the deep connections between people and the planet.
Spotlight on Women Filmmakers
We’re incredibly proud that over half of the films in this year’s programme are directed by women. From Manuela Irene’s magical Xibalba Monster to Subhadra Mahajan’s poignant Second Chance, these films capture unique perspectives with creativity and vision. We’re also thrilled to feature two powerful Palestinian films — The Teacher by Farah Nabulsi and Thank You for Banking with Us by Laila Abbas — both offering deeply moving insights into life and resistance in modern Palestine.
Caribbean Stories and Cuban Classics
This year, WOW brings a vibrant focus on the Caribbean, with the Dominican Republic’s Sugar Island and two Cuban classics — Memories of Underdevelopment and A Night with The Rolling Stones. These films celebrate the region’s rich history and cultural diversity, with expert introductions and discussions to deepen the experience.
Festival Favourites and Special Events
There’s no shortage of standout moments this year. We’re hosting the UK premiere of the Turkish festival hit Hakkı, followed by a director Q&A, and closing the festival with the crowd-pleasing Universal Language, a cross-cultural comedy that’s already won over audiences worldwide. And let’s not forget Abercon — our beloved celebration of animation and cosplay — returning for its fourth year in Aberystwyth with workshops, stalls, and a cosplay competition!
With just two weeks to go, now’s the perfect time to start planning your festival experience. WOW 2025 promises to be a celebration of cinema without borders — full of stories that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
🎟️ Get your tickets and explore the full programme at wowfilmfestival.com.
We can’t wait to see you there!
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