Founder of South London Film Festival Warns of Event’s Possible Closure Due to High Classification Fees

The Crystal Palace International Film Festival (CPIFF) may face closure due to high classification fees demanded by local councils. Founder Neill Roy claims that Lambeth and Bromley councils are asking for over £6,500 to rate all 132 films in the festival, a cost he argues no film festival can afford. Established in 2009, CPIFF has been a key event for filmmakers in south London, attracting both up-and-coming talent and established artists. The festival, held in venues like the West Norwood Picturehouse and Everyman Cinema, has been described as the ‘world’s coolest’ by attendees and has been a platform for many successful filmmakers. However, the councils argue that all films must be classified to ensure consumer safety, particularly for younger audiences. In response, Roy offered to allow independent film ratings or even classify all films as 18-rated to meet the councils’ requirements. Despite these efforts, the councils are firm on their stance, arguing that the film festival must comply with legal regulations under the Licensing Act 2003. A petition to save the festival has already gained over 1,500 signatures from supporters. Roy fears the closure of the event would mark the end of a valuable creative hub for the community and aspiring filmmakers.