Pinewood Studios Futures Festival is a 'fantastic' event

The 2025 Futures Festival at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, took place on February 28 and March 1, ahead of National Careers Week.

The event, aimed at young people and career changers wanting to break into the industry, provided a unique opportunity to explore the world of film and television.

More than 50 companies and training providers participated, offering immersive and interactive experiences as well as talks from industry leaders.

Dan Burton, senior community and education outreach manager, said: "This year our aim for Pinewood Futures Festival was to incorporate and showcase even more companies and roles within our industry.

"We hosted over 50 companies and training providers with amazing immersive and interactive experiences as well as talks from industry leaders to inspire the filmmakers of the future.

"Thanks to all who attended."

Groups from schools, colleges, universities, and educational facilities studying film, media, and creative arts were given bespoke tours around the studios.

Experts from every section of the industry shared their knowledge, experience, and insights.

BBC Radio 1 film critic and journalist Ali Plumb said: "It was such a great experience to be back at Pinewood Futures Festival 2025 - getting to meet so many amazing people, talking to incredible behind-the-scenes talent and, of course, hanging out with some of the nerdiest geeks in the galaxy (which is very much a good thing, to be absolutely clear)."

Alex Maxwell, a teacher at Sir William Ramsay School in High Wycombe, said: "It was absolutely fantastic.

"We brought 12 Year 12 drama and media students and we were all blown away.

"The fact that we started with a live underwater stage demonstration and Q+A really was so impressive.

"The additional movie characters were so much fun and to top it off the amount of different TV and film-related careers on show was excellent.

"It really inspired both the students and the teachers.

"We'll absolutely be booking in for next year."

The festival also featured interactive demonstrations, including live shooting, editing and colour grading with a green screen, set painting and prop making, and a full underwater shoot.

The 501st Garrison brought life and excitement with stormtroopers, droids, and wookies along the route.

There were also special visits from a replica Batmobile, ECTO 1, Mater, and Professor Z.

The event provided an opportunity for attendees to learn about the various roles in the industry and the pathways to pursuing a successful career in film and television.