Encounters is the UK’s leading short film, animation and VR festival. 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. Encounters Festival presents one of the world’s leading International Competitions for short film and animation, and is also an official gateway to the world’s most prestigious awards; BAFTAs, European Film Awards and Cartoon d’Or and a qualifying festival for The Academy Awards®. Each year the Encounters Festival Grand Prix winners qualify for consideration in the Short Films category of the Annual Academy Awards®. Connecting industry and audiences, the festival celebrates the creativity, diversity and impact of short film. 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!