Debuting at Phoenix, the Recovery Street Film Festival arrives in Leicester for the first time, bringing the UK’s only national festival dedicated to short films created by people affected by substance use.

Debuting at Phoenix, the Recovery Street Film Festival arrives in Leicester for the first time, bringing the UK’s only national festival dedicated to short films created by people affected by substance use.

Celebrating creativity and recovery, the festival challenges stigma through powerful, authentic storytelling from people with lived experience, alongside their families, friends and supporters.

This year’s theme, 'Rewriting the Script’', explores transformation, reclaiming the narrative, identity, hope and the power of change through an inspiring collection of short films. Leicester-based recovery advocates Aunee Bhogaita and Jit Chauhan join the judging panel, ensuring local voices and lived experience are at the heart of the festival.

This free screening on Sat 26 Sep is open to all, and will showcase 19 shortlisted films, followed by a special prize-giving ceremony, including an award celebrating young filmmakers aged 16–25. Audiences are invited to participate in a Q&A with filmmakers and festival guests, exploring the stories behind the films and the role creativity can play in recovery.

RSFF are thrilled to have judge Richard Mylan present this year's awards. An accomplished screen and West End actor with credits including Waterloo Road and Coupling, Richard co-founded the production company Grand Ambition. His celebrated theatre work touches directly on themes of recovery, including his Stage Debut Award-nominated play SORTER about opioid addiction, and his 2025 Stage Debut Award win for Best Director (MumFighter).

Doors open at 1pm, join us at Phoenix for an unforgettable celebration of cinema, connection and the stories that inspire change.

Funded by the Public Health Division at Leicester City Council.

If you or someone close to you would like support with alcohol or drugs, you can visit Turning Point Leicester at 38 Friar Ln, call on 0330 303 6000 or complete an online form here.

Sign up to the Recovery Street Film Festival mailing list here.