GRINDFEST 2027: Three Days of Cult Cinema at The Regent Christchurch

Friday 10 - Sunday 12 September 2027 | The Regent, Christchurch

Horror, science fiction, cult classics and cinematic curiosities are heading back to Christchurch as GRINDFEST returns to The Regent for three days of films that you won't find at your average cinema screening.

Presented by Dirt in the Gate Movies, this distinctive film festival celebrates the wonderfully weird, the rarely seen and the much-loved classics of genre cinema. From vintage horror and fantasy to unusual discoveries and contemporary independent films, GRINDFEST brings together an eclectic programme designed for audiences who enjoy something a little different.

Image: The Regent

What's Happening at GRINDFEST 2027?

The festival takes over Christchurch's historic Art Deco theatre for an entire weekend, with a programme dedicated to the creativity and imagination of cult cinema.

Cult Classics & Rare Screenings

Expect an assortment of cult favourites, overlooked gems and films that rarely make it back onto the big screen. GRINDFEST is particularly appealing to film enthusiasts who appreciate the opportunity to experience these productions as they were originally intended, in a proper cinema with an audience.

Horror, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

From atmospheric horror and science fiction to fantasy and unconventional filmmaking, the festival explores a wide range of genres. Whether you're a lifelong horror enthusiast or simply curious about cinema beyond the mainstream, there's plenty to discover.

Traditional Film Presentations

One of the defining features of Dirt in the Gate Movies is its commitment to traditional film projection. GRINDFEST celebrates the experience of watching films on celluloid, with traditional film presentations forming part of the festival's distinctive appeal alongside digital screenings.

Short Films & Independent Cinema

The festival also provides a platform for shorter productions and independent filmmaking, introducing audiences to creative work that might otherwise be difficult to discover.

Special Guests & Introductions

Guest appearances, filmmaker discussions and special introductions have been part of the GRINDFEST experience, adding another dimension to the screenings and giving audiences an opportunity to explore the stories behind the films.

Details of the 2027 guests and individual presentations will be announced as the programme develops.

A Festival Made for The Regent

There is something particularly fitting about watching cult cinema in a historic theatre, and The Regent provides just the right setting.

Located on Christchurch High Street, the beautifully restored Art Deco venue has been entertaining audiences for generations. Its traditional auditorium and big-screen atmosphere make it an ideal home for a festival celebrating the theatrical experience of film.

Unlike a conventional cinema visit, GRINDFEST is designed as a shared weekend experience, bringing together film fans who enjoy discovering unusual titles, revisiting old favourites and discussing what they've watched.

Make a Weekend of It

With screenings taking place across Friday, Saturday and Sunday, visitors can choose to enjoy the complete festival or attend selected days once the individual programme is released.

The Regent's central location also makes it easy to combine screenings with lunch, dinner or drinks in Christchurch, particularly for those travelling from elsewhere in Dorset.

GRINDFEST 2027: Event Details

Dates: Friday 10 - Sunday 12 September 2027

Venue: The Regent, 51 High Street, Christchurch, BH23 1AS

Organiser: Dirt in the Gate Movies

Festival Features: Cult cinema, horror, science fiction, fantasy, rare screenings, traditional film presentations, independent films and special guest appearances.

Tickets: Three-day festival passes are available, with individual day passes and screening tickets expected to follow the programme announcement.

Age Guidance: The festival is aimed at adult audiences, with three-day passes restricted to those aged 18 and over.

Full Programme: To be announced.

For anyone who enjoys films with a little more character, GRINDFEST is one to add to the September calendar. Three days of unusual discoveries, cult favourites and big-screen experiences, all in the heart of Christchurch.

Further information and tickets: Visit The Regent's official website for festival announcements and booking details