Key Information

Central to the BFI’s work is the care and expansion of the BFI National Archive, the largest film archive in the world, which holds over 50,000 fiction films, more than 100,000 non-fiction titles, and hundreds of thousands of television programmes. The organisation operates renowned venues such as the BFI Southbank and the BFI IMAX, offering screenings of everything from major blockbusters to rare, historically significant works. It also organises high-profile festivals including the London Film Festival, BFI Flare: London LGBTIQ+ Film Festival, and the Future Film Festival for young creatives. Beyond screenings, the BFI engages in publishing, streaming via BFI Player, and providing educational opportunities like the BFI Film Academy to nurture the next generation of filmmakers.

The BFI’s influence extends nationally and internationally through film distribution, cultural programming, and partnerships with schools, artists, and industry leaders. By making rare archival treasures accessible, digitising endangered television material, and funding innovative film projects, the institute plays a vital role in preserving the past while shaping the future of film culture. Its blend of preservation, education, and creative support ensures that the UK’s moving image heritage remains vibrant, relevant, and available for generations to come. Whether in the cinema, the classroom, or online, the BFI serves as both a guardian of cinematic history and a champion of its ongoing evolution.