More than 160 films have been submitted for the first Bournemouth International Film Festival, which will take place at the Hilton Bournemouth on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 October.
The submissions cover feature films, short films, documentaries, animations and scripts from both emerging and established talent, including BAFTA and Emmy award-winning filmmakers. Around 60 have already been shortlisted for screening across the two days.
Festival Director Steve McCarten said the submissions demonstrate the strength of creativity from both local and international filmmakers. He added that entries include “heartwarming films created by local students” alongside “socially conscious narratives from emerging filmmakers” and a short film from a BAFTA winner.
The shortlisted entries will be judged by a panel before winners in each category are announced at a black-tie awards ceremony on the evening of Saturday 4 October. Categories will celebrate achievements in directing, writing, editing and sound, as well as a dedicated award for an Outstanding Bournemouth or Local Filmmaker.
Christopher Eccleston is patron of the festival, which has attracted support from organisations including the BFI, the National Film and Television School, Arts University Bournemouth, Chine Financial, My Little Teddy, Bournemouth One, Adventure Attractions and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The two-day festival will also include industry panels, workshops and networking opportunities, with a strong emphasis on encouraging first-time filmmakers and new voices.
Organisers say it has been designed as a not-for-profit initiative to help nurture talent and expand creative opportunities across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and beyond.
