Encounters is the UK’s leading celebration of new and emerging talent working in the fields of short film, animation and immersive moving image.
The festival discovers, supports and develops new talent in filmmaking, providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers from around the world, and a unique meeting place for the industry.
At the heart of the festival lies the Encounters international competition – one of the world’s leading international competitions for short film, animation and immersive moving image work. The international competition is an official gateway to the world’s most prestigious awards; the Academy Awards®, BAFTAs and the European Film Awards.
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 programme with high level masterclasses and workshops.
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, meaning whatever your background, we won’t exclude anyone based on gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, or otherwise. You’ll be welcome here.