Encounters is the UK’s leading short film, animation and virtual reality festival.
The festival discovers, supports and develops new talent in filmmaking, providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers from around the world, and continues to be a unique meeting place for the industry.
The jam-packed programme in September presents a diverse selection of short film screenings, features, special guests, Q&As and headline events, alongside an intensive industry event programme with high level masterclasses and workshops.
At the heart of the festival lies the Encounters international competition – one of the world’s leading international competitions for short film, animation and virtual reality, and also an official gateway to the world’s most prestigious awards; the Academy Awards®, BAFTAs and the European Film Awards.
Connecting industry and audiences, the festival celebrates the creativity, diversity and the impact of short film.
Encounters is a charity that stands for fairness and equality. Whether showcasing the best in new and emerging talent, running events, or hiring staff, we take our commitment to fair representation seriously. We’re committed to widening the lens across all our practices, and that means whatever your background, we won’t exclude anyone based on gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, or otherwise. You’ll be welcome here.
So whether you are a filmmaker looking to launch or develop your career, an industry professional wanting to stay abreast of what’s new, or a film lover wanting to soak up the festival atmosphere by watching great films and special events, come along to the next festival for a truly inspiring week of short film celebration!