Encounters is the UKÍs leading short film, animation and virtual reality festival, operating out of Bristol. A highlight of its 6 day festival in September is the highly-regarded international film competition, delivering prestigious awards and cash prizes. Encounters is also a qualifying festival for the Oscars¬, BAFTAs and European Film Awards. While providing a unique platform for emerging and established filmmaking talent, Encounters also offers year-round support, bespoke training courses and touring programmes. The festival is funded by the BFI, Bristol City Council and the MEDIA Programme of the European Union. Main sponsors include University of the West of England, Aardman Animations and IMDbPro. Encounters Festivals Ltd operates as an independent company and is a registered charity, no. 1058603. www.encounters-festival.org.uk Twitter/Instagram: @EncountersSFF Facebook: /EncountersShortFilmFestival