Realities in Motion

The 33rd edition of Sheffield DocFest runs from 10–15 June 2026, transforming the city into a dynamic hub for documentary storytelling across film, audio, games, and beyond.

This year's theme, Realities in Motion, reflects a world defined by uncertainty and constant transformation, from grassroots activism and climate advocacy to the uplifting power of music. The programme celebrates the full spectrum of non-fiction storytelling, featuring intimate portraits of resistance and identity, bold archival explorations, and urgent climate narratives. Spanning features, shorts, TV episodes, podcasts, interactive talks, masterclasses, and immersive works, the festival hosts 45 World Premieres and showcases work from 64 countries.

Legendary names joining us in Sheffield include Chris Packham, Miriam Margolyes, Gary Stevenson, Jesy Nelson, David Olusoga, and our Guest of Honour, Maxine Peake.

New titles span sports (Cantona; The Last First: Winter K2; Obsession: The Beryl Burton Story), climate justice (We, The Hated; All Rivers Spill Their Stories to the Sea; Derek vs Derek), and global conflict, including Time Machine Maidan (Ukraine), Life Support (Palestine), and Birds of War (Syria).

Special events include a landmark conversation with Asif Kapadia and the team behind 70 Up: The Final Chapter, the final instalment of one of documentary's most influential series. We're also hosting the World Premiere of Heaven 17: The Last Temptation, following Sheffield's own synth legends on what may be their final tour, with a live performance.

Our immersive Alternate Realities exhibition returns with a special focus on gaming. The headline work is Sheffield of Stories by Minecraft artist Adam Clarke, created in partnership with The National Videogame Museum. It transforms Sheffield into a shared Minecraft world co-created with local children, with visitors able to explore stories through projections and interactive stations. During the festival, it goes live in Minecraft for anyone to join.

Television highlights include major World Premieres: Buried featuring Michael Sheen, a new project with Katie Price, and HBO's The Man Will Burn, exploring the evolution of Burning Man. Audio fans can enjoy live podcast events, including an outdoor experience with Cinema for the Ears at the South Street Amphitheatre and a special Audible Original with Charlie Webster.

We're also proud to launch GEN DocFest, a brand-new strand for children, families, and young people, packed with big ideas, workshops, and sessions including Horrible Histories and Horrible Science: A Thoroughly Horrible Morning! and a powerful live performance from spoken word poet Sam Browne.

Sheffield DocFest 2026 is an invitation to engage, reflect, and celebrate real-life stories. Full programme and tickets at sheffdocfest.com

By Raul Niño Zambrano, Creative Director, Sheffield DocFest