The highly anticipated documentary Borrowed Time, which delves into the final decade of John Lennon’s life, will receive its world premiere at the inaugural Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) in London this May.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Alan G. Parker, the film explores the life and legacy of the late Beatles icon, who was tragically shot in 1980 at the age of 40. The documentary promises a fresh perspective on Lennon’s later years through insights from musicians, journalists, and close friends, accompanied by rare archive footage and never-before-seen interviews.
Borrowed Time is scheduled to premiere on Friday, May 9, as part of CIFF’s impressive lineup. The festival will run from May 7 to May 10 at the Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel and select venues including Curzon Soho, offering a diverse slate of 10 feature films, exclusive panel talks, and special events.
Kicking off the festival on May 7 is the world premiere of Savage Flowers, a psychological thriller directed by Brad Watson. Starring Roxanne McKee (Game of Thrones) and Nick Moran (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows), the film follows a young orphan who finds sanctuary in a foster home, only to discover that the real danger lies within.
Another standout feature on the program is Los Frikis, directed by Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz. Inspired by true events, this coming-of-age story is set in early 1990s Cuba and follows a group of punk rockers seeking freedom through unconventional means.
CIFF’s schedule also includes a special screening of Julien Temple’s celebrated documentary London: The Modern Babylon, featuring screen legends Keith Allen, Bill Nighy, and Imelda Staunton. Over a decade since its original release, the film remains a powerful portrait of the British capital through the ages.
Other notable screenings include:
·The Waterhouse, directed by Samuel Clemens
·QUANT, presented by Sadie Frost with an introduction by the filmmaker herself
·The UK premiere of The Wheels of Heaven, directed by Ben Charles Edwards and starring Mickey Rourke
·Children of the Snow Land, a moving documentary directed by Zara Balfour
·Premieres of music documentaries exploring Paul Oakenfold’s Perfecto Records and the legendary Heaven Nightclub
Beyond film screenings, CIFF will host a range of insightful panel discussions. Topics include Film3 and Web3 innovations with Jordan Bayne and Phil McKenzie, the future of independent filmmaking with Asia Argento and Ben Charles Edwards, and a special session from the Girls On Film podcast team. Additionally, an industry-focused talk will guide filmmakers on securing funding for their projects.
The festival also features a glamorous gala dinner and charity auction on May 8, with proceeds going to the Teenage Cancer Trust. Select events, including the gala and opening night party, are by invitation only.
CIFF aims to be more than a film showcase—it’s a platform for connection, creativity, and celebrating cinematic excellence in all its forms.
For tickets and the full program, visit: www.cineinternationalfilmfestival.com
