Karma Sanctum Soho is set to become the epicentre of an exciting step forward in the world of film this spring as it hosts the inaugural Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) from May 7-10, 2025. This exciting new festival promises to inject the grit and authenticity of London’s filmmaking culture into the independent cinema scene.
Spearheaded by an impressive trio of industry veterans—London acting legend Tamer Hassan (co-owner of Karma Sanctum Soho), director Ben Charles Edwards, and producer Kirsty Bell—CIFF aims to create an accessible celebration of film that bridges global cinema with London’s unique cultural identity.
“We want to bring a bit of the Cannes Film Festival to Soho,” says Hassan, whose passion for supporting emerging talent has been a driving force behind the festival. “When you look at other festivals, they’ve all got the glitz, but we’ve got the grit—and that’s what filmmaking and cinema is about,” adds Edwards.
The four-day event will feature premieres, screenings, Q&As with actors and directors, and an awards ceremony celebrating the best in independent film. A star-studded jury panel including Asia Argento, Paul Oakenfold, Sadie Frost, and Roger Daltrey will determine the festival’s winners, with proceeds supporting Daltrey’s Teenage Cancer Trust.
Most significantly, CIFF will launch the Goldfinch Academy Bursary, providing £10,000 to help deserving new voices in filmmaking bring their creative visions to life—particularly those from less privileged backgrounds.
For Karma Members, this presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourselves in the cutting edge of independent cinema while enjoying the rock and roll luxury that defines Karma Sanctum Soho. Celebrity guests are a fixture here – indeed none other than Jason Momoa aka Aquaman aka Pride of Gypsies was hanging out at the resort just last week promoting his new premium vodka Meili.
From screenings in the hotel’s dedicated cinema room to networking on the famous rooftop (complete with hot tub!), the festival promises to be as much about the experience as the films themselves.
Book your stay for early May and be part of what’s set to become London’s most exciting new film event—where creativity, community, and Karma’s signature hospitality combine for an unforgettable cultural celebration.
