Following a successful relaunch in 2025, Encounters is at the start of an exciting new chapter.

For 30 years, Encounters has launched the careers of Oscar and BAFTA winners, connected audiences with amazing films and many of the world's most exciting filmmakers from Denis Villeneuve and Lynne Ramsay to Andrea Arnold and Charlotte Wells.

We're growing Encounters' profile to truly represent the culture, screen industries, and creative talent of Bristol and the South West of England on the international stage, and we need help.

Encounters is looking for passionate and skilled people to join our Board, helping to guide our strategic direction and drive the festival's growth.

Encounters is currently looking for volunteers to join our pre-selection panel for the 2026 film festival.

Read more and apply here!

The 38th European Film Awards will take place this Saturday, 17 January, at the headquarters of the European Film Academy in Berlin. Often referred to as the European equivalent of the Oscars, the European Film Awards are the most prestigious film honours on the continent, with the European Film Academy (EFA) celebrating excellence in European cinema each year.

The live broadcast of the awards ceremony will be available to watch here Saturday, 17 January from 5pm GMT.

Read all about the amazing award winners from the 2025 Encounters Film Festival.

Check out some of the amazing features and special events in this year’s programme.

Legendary filmmakers Charlie Kaufman and Michel Gondry come to Bristol.

An extraordinary collection of 105 exceptional films from fresh voices and celebrated auteurs around the globe, showcasing the very best in contemporary cinema with diverse perspectives, innovative storytelling, and genuine star power.

UK premieres include stunning new works from Charlie Kaufman, Mark Jenkin, Ida Melum, Georges Schwizgebel and Simon Ellis.

With September fast approaching, we’re excited to give you a first taste of this year’s festival programme with some of the fantastic talks, masterclasses and panel discussions happening at Encounters this year.

Keep your eyes peeled for more announcements soon including an amazing film programme.