Big-screen thrills and breakthrough voices can be seen for free this August, writes Francesca Lombardo

Stratford’s film scene is heating up this summer with the return of FILM NIGHTS at THE SOURCE — a vibrant Tuesday night series that blends the best of contemporary cinema with the raw energy of London’s emerging filmmakers.

After a strong July debut featuring intimate, conversation-sparking screenings, August’s programme promises big-name titles, cutting-edge narratives, and a community-first ethos. All films are screened at THE SOURCE, Stratford’s newly reimagined cultural venue, created by the University of East London in partnership with Newham Council.

This month, tickets are completely FREE — offering open access to high-quality cinema and ensuring that everyone can take part in this celebration of film and storytelling.

August line-up: Mainstream meets mission

Each Tuesday night, audiences can expect a double hit of storytelling: a short film showcase at 6:30 PM, followed by the main feature at 7:00 PM. The shorts are handpicked from local filmmakers, offering bold, emerging perspectives — from poetic city snapshots to genre-pushing personal stories.

Here’s what’s coming to the screen this August:

5 August – The Substance

A genre-defying feminist body horror that’s turning heads internationally.

Demi Moore stars in this audacious satire on beauty, ageing, and societal pressure, delivering a performance full of bite and vulnerability. Stylish, disturbing, and deeply resonant — it’s the most talked-about shocker from Cannes.

12 August – Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy

The icon is back — older, wiser, and still hilariously human.

Bridget returns as a single mother navigating grief, dating, and midlife chaos with her usual blend of charm and clumsiness. Heartwarming, funny, and a satisfying new chapter in a beloved saga.

19 August – The Amateur

Grief, revenge, and espionage collide in this slick thriller.

Rami Malek plays a CIA codebreaker who forces his way into the field after his wife is killed. What unfolds is a taut, emotionally charged ride about the cost of justice.

26 August – We Live in Time

Love and loss ripple across decades in this unforgettable romantic drama.

Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield dazzle in a story that gently bends time to explore memory, fate, and the fleeting nature of connection. Bittersweet and exquisitely told.

SHORTS BEFORE SUNSET

From 6:30 PM, each evening opens with short films and documentaries made by London-based filmmakers, many from Newham and the East End. These works are windows into urban life, identity, resilience, and imagination — and offer a glimpse into the city’s creative future.

COME EARLY, STAY LATE

Doors open at 6:00 PM, with The SOURCE Café serving refreshments, drinks, popcorn and locally sourced snacks. Some evenings may feature special guest appearances, director Q&As, or informal post-screening conversations.

TICKETS & BOOKING

Price for August only: FREE (booking still requested)

Venue: THE SOURCE, Stratford, London E15 1BX

Book now: thesource-stratford.co.uk

Follow @thesourcestratford on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and filmmaker spotlights.

FILM NIGHTS at THE SOURCE is more than just a screening — it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and cinema that speaks to our time. Whether you come for the stars or stay for the shorts, Tuesday nights in Stratford just got a cinematic upgrade — and this month, it won’t cost you a penny.

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