Film4 is the UK home of free to air cinema, showcasing British film-making alongside Hollywood hits, world cinema and cult favourites. On this page you can watch Film4 live straight away and use a clear daily guide to see what is on now, what starts next and the exact time tonight’s headline films begin. All timings are shown in UK time for easy planning.
What is on this page
Expect a rotating mix of:
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British cinema from new voices to modern classics
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Hollywood blockbusters and award season titles
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World cinema that brings different languages and perspectives
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Cult and late night favourites with a loyal following
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Family films in early evening slots during weekends and holidays
How today’s schedule usually runs
Mornings and early afternoons carry accessible titles and repeat showings. Late afternoon builds to early evening family films. Prime time focuses on premieres, major studio releases or themed seasons. Late night often leans into cult, thriller or horror selections. If a film overruns or a double bill is scheduled, the guide on this page updates so start times remain accurate.
Genres and seasons you may find
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Drama, comedy, romance and road movies
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Action and adventure with clear age guidance
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Thrillers and mysteries, often grouped as a weekly strand
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World cinema spotlights that change by season
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Director or star retrospectives with brief introductions in the listings
Family viewing guidance
Look for the certificate next to each title in the guide. Family slots tend to sit earlier in the evening, with clearer language and gentler themes. Later films can include stronger content. Use the start and finish times to decide whether to begin now or wait for the next suitable title.
Picture and performance
Film4 is widely available in high definition on supported devices. Expect clean transfers, readable subtitles where provided and stable playback. Streaming typically runs a few seconds behind over the air reception. That small delay is normal and helps keep the live stream smooth on variable connections.
Availability note
Live access is intended for viewers in the UK and Ireland. Rights may vary by territory and season, which can affect availability if you travel. Devices may also enforce regional settings automatically.
Live viewing reminder
In the UK, watching any television channel live, whether on a TV platform or through a streaming player, requires a TV Licence. On demand viewing is treated differently, but live channels fall under the licence rules.
Start watching
Press play to join Film4 live. Use the guide to time your evening around a new premiere, a family film before bedtime, a world cinema pick you have been meaning to see or a late night cult favourite. The grid refreshes through the day so you always see the latest running order.
