Fakenham Film Festival 2026 is delighted to announce that it has received another special message of support — this time from acclaimed film director and filmmaker John Madden.

Madden is one of Britain’s best-known directors, with credits including Shakespeare in Love, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, Operation Mincemeat and Proof. He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Director for Shakespeare in Love.

His support for FFF26 has a particularly strong local connection. Madden’s latest film, Onwards and Sideways, starring Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans, was filmed in Fakenham and other locations across North Norfolk. 

Some scenes for Onwards and Sideways were also filmed inside Central Cinema Fakenham — the very venue hosting Fakenham Film Festival 2026. This gives Madden’s message of support an especially fitting connection to this year’s festival.

The film recently had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival 2026 and is due for UK cinema release in November.

Richard Crook of Active Fakenham said:

“We are absolutely thrilled that John Madden has taken the time to send a message of support for FFF26.

“It is particularly special because of his connection with Fakenham through Onwards and Sideways. Seeing a major production filming in our town — including at the Central Cinema itself — was a real moment for Fakenham, so to now have John supporting our own film festival means a great deal to us.

“Following the wonderful support we have already received from Sir Stephen Fry, this is another tremendous boost for the festival and for everyone involved.”

FFF26 takes place at Central Cinema Fakenham from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 October 2026 and brings together locally made and independent short films, feature films with Norfolk connections, family screenings, a Dark, Edgy & Horror Showcase, a film competition and the Sunday Red Carpet & Awards Finale. (Active Fakenham)

The festival aims to give independent filmmakers the opportunity to see their work on the big screen while also supporting Fakenham’s independent cinema and celebrating film and filmmaking with connections to Norfolk.

Tickets are now available. Audiences can book in advance online through the Central Cinema website or buy tickets in person at the cinema. Tickets will also be available on the day at the door, subject to availability. (Active Fakenham)

Watch John Madden’s message and find out more about FFF26, the programme and tickets at:

https://www.activefakenham.org.uk/my-postccd6ce29