Swap Cannes for ‘end cans’ as the London Film Festival kicks off

London is getting a proper injection of two-wheeled cinema this September as the London Motorcycle Film Festival (LMFF) revs into life for the very first time.

Taking place on 12–13 September 2025, the event promises to swap red carpets for oil stains and flat whites, and it’s setting up shop at The Old Timber Store, a moody, brick-and-steel venue tucked away beneath the railway arches of Maltby Street Market. It’s gritty, it’s atmospheric, and frankly, it’s a far better setting for talking old bikes than a sun-drenched French Riviera.

The LMFF is brought to you by the same crew behind the Dubai Motorcycle Film Festival (DMFF), which has been championing moto-filmmaking since 2021. Festival founder and director Ian Carless says the UK leg was always on the cards.

“London and the UK have such a rich motorcycle history and culture,” said Carless. “We knew from the outset that we wanted to bring the festival here.”

So what’s on the bill?

The two-day festival will showcase short films from around the world, with a focus on stories that cut through the noise with films about passion, purpose, and the occasional bit of petrol-fuelled madness. We’re talking gritty real-life adventures, documentary storytelling, and even a few curveballs like animation and branded content that actually does more than flog you a new helmet.

Some of the highlights include:

Reappear (UK, dir. Tommy Clarke) – A personal journey of grief and discovery, kickstarted by the restoration of a vintage motorcycle and a single, cherished photo.

Song of Sosa (Australia, dir. Cam Elkins) – A love letter to craftsmanship, rhythm, and Royal Enfields, told through the hands and hammers of Cristian Sosa.

Fast Eddie (USA, dir. Brenna Eckerson) – The incredible story of WWII vet and racer Ed Fisher, who went from Indian factory rider to Triumph pioneer, and rode into his 90s.

Rebel Riders (Indonesia, dir. Marc Ressang) – A deep dive into Indonesia’s extreme Vespa scene, where riders weld, chop, and mod their scooters into wild, rolling works of art.

Not Just Films – A Proper Celebration of Bike Culture

LMFF isn’t going it alone. Helping bring the whole thing to life are a few familiar faces from the UK motorcycle scene.

Classic Rides, the passion project of Matt McFadden, blends photography, art, and motorcycles into a digital brand and online community. He’s bringing his visual work to the festival.

“Motorcycle culture is rich with stories that deserve to be seen and heard,” says Matt. “Our goal is to bring filmmakers, riders and brands together – right here in London.”

Then there’s Alex Richards, best known for hosting the London leg of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride and for running one of the world’s largest Facebook groups dedicated to adventure motorcycling.

“LMFF isn’t just for hardcore bikers,” says Alex. “Whether it’s a gritty doc shot in the Andes or a short film made in Hackney, it’s the emotion and craft that shine through.”

Finally, adding a bit of DGR energy is Stefania Schito, lawyer by trade, fundraiser extraordinaire by passion. Stefania is one of the top Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride fundraisers globally, and yes, her dad is extremely proud.

“LMFF is a cultural crossover between cinema, community, design and the thrill of the ride,” says Stefania. “I’m buzzing to be part of it and can’t wait to kick things off.”

A Film Festival for People Who Think Popcorn Should Be Petrol-Flavoured

This isn’t Cannes. There are no limo drop-offs, no fashion sponsors, and definitely no yacht parties (unless you’re counting inflatable dinghies on the Thames). What there is, though, is a growing community of people who love telling stories on two wheels—and that’s something worth showing up for.

For more information, head to the LMFF official website.

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