At a Glance
- Tasks: Write film reviews, attend press screenings, and connect with industry professionals.
- Company: Join the British Film Institute's award-winning Critics Mentorship Programme.
- Benefits: Paid mentorship, full festival access, and travel support for non-London applicants.
- Other info: Strengthen your skills and build a professional network in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your film journalism career and get published by top media partners.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, passionate about film, and from an underrepresented group.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
Are you an aspiring film critic or journalist? If you’re writing reviews for blogs or social media but haven’t yet broken into established platforms, apply to the award-winning BFI London Film Festival Critics Mentorship Programme and gain industry mentorship and the opportunity to have your work published by LFF media partners and the BFI.
About the Mentorship Programme
The mentorship runs 7 to 9 October, offering access to press screenings and events, alongside opportunities to write reviews and features and build industry connections. Successful applicants will also attend the 70th BFI London Film Festival (7 to 18 October 2026). Mentees are paid the London Living Wage for work produced during the three days and receive full press accreditation for the full festival. Those based outside London may receive travel and accommodation support.
By the end, participants will have strengthened their film journalism skills, gained industry insight, expanded their portfolio, built professional networks, and received confirmation of completion. We continue to look at how we can better serve writers from underrepresented communities by offering mentorship that can pave the way to future opportunities for paid work in the media. As in previous years, we will be offering the 2026 Critics Mentorship to mentees from underrepresented voices in film criticism.
About You
- Applicants must be 18 and over with the right to work in the UK.
- To be eligible you will have not had any written work published in/on a national print publication/online platform before.
- An interest in film with excellent writing skills.
- The ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with BFI colleagues, partners and stakeholders.
- You will self-identify from one or more of the underrepresented groups as detailed above.
- A commitment to continuous professional development and passion for film journalism.
Due to the demands of the programme and the availability of Lead Mentors, applicants must be able to commit to the full schedule of activity, in particular being available full time from 7 to 9 October 2026, including evenings. Please do not apply if you are unavailable on these specific dates.
Interviews will be held online (via MS Teams) on Monday 29 June and Wednesday 1 July 2026. BFI support diversity and inclusion, and as an organisation, recognises that they need to address under-representation within its teams. As such, they strongly welcome and encourage applicants from our underrepresented groups, who identify as D/deaf and disabled and/or are Black and Global Majority. They guarantee a place at the first stage selection process to underrepresented groups who meet the minimum requirements.
The closing date for this position is 04/06/2026 at 23:59.
Launch Your Film Criticism: LFF Mentorship 2026 employer: Box
The British Film Institute (BFI) is an exceptional employer for aspiring film critics, offering a unique opportunity to gain industry mentorship and enhance your writing skills during the prestigious London Film Festival. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, BFI provides a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth, ensuring that underrepresented voices in film criticism are heard and valued. Mentees benefit from paid opportunities, access to exclusive events, and the chance to build meaningful connections within the film industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Launch Your Film Criticism: LFF Mentorship 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Attend film events, screenings, and workshops to meet industry folks. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that dream gig.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for film! Create a blog or social media account dedicated to your reviews and thoughts on films. This not only showcases your writing skills but also helps you build an audience.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about reaching out! If you admire someone in the industry, drop them a message. Ask for advice or insights about their journey. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help out a fellow film lover.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re all about supporting aspiring critics like you. Make sure to highlight your unique perspective and experiences in your application to stand out from the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Launch Your Film Criticism: LFF Mentorship 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Film:When writing your application, let your love for film shine through! Share what inspires you about film criticism and why you want to be part of the BFI London Film Festival Critics Mentorship Programme. We want to see your enthusiasm!
Tailor Your Writing Samples:Make sure to include writing samples that reflect your unique voice and perspective. Choose pieces that showcase your ability to analyse films critically. Remember, we’re looking for originality, so don’t be afraid to stand out!
Be Honest About Your Background:Since this programme aims to uplift underrepresented voices, be open about your identity and experiences. This is your chance to highlight how your background shapes your view on film and criticism. We value authenticity!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the mentorship!
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Know Your Films
Make sure you brush up on your film knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with recent films, directors, and trends in film criticism. Being able to discuss your favourite films and articulate why they resonate with you will show your passion and understanding of the industry.
✨Craft Your Personal Narrative
Think about your journey as a film critic and how it aligns with the BFI's mission. Be ready to share your experiences, what drives your interest in film journalism, and how you identify with underrepresented voices in the industry. This personal touch can make you memorable.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the mentorship programme, the BFI’s initiatives for underrepresented groups, and what you can expect from the experience. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with articulating your thoughts. Focus on your writing skills and how you can convey your ideas clearly and concisely. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel during the actual interview.
