Bolton International Film Festival marks 10th edition with 305 short films
The festival runs from 30 September to 4 October at The Light Cinema, showcasing premieres from over 120 countries and offering £10,000 and £3,000 funding pitches for filmmakers.
The 10th Bolton International Film Festival opened at The Light Cinema on Market Place on 30 September, bringing together filmmakers and enthusiasts for the launch of the five-day event.
During the run to 4 October, the programme will feature 305 short films, among them 39 world premieres, 22 European premieres and 78 national premieres, with entries submitted from more than 120 countries. The festival holds BAFTA, BIFA and Grierson accreditation, reinforcing its status on the international short-film circuit.
A dedicated Made Up North strand will highlight productions from the North of England, while the Creatives Now Youth Strand and the University of Greater Manchester College Film Competition Showcase provide platforms for local community groups and students.
Two funding opportunities are embedded in the schedule. The Slick Films Short Film Fund offers a £10,000 prize to develop a project, and the Northern Doc Fund presents two awards of £3,000 each to support documentary makers.
Funding and Industry Events
On Saturday 3 October, Bolton Film Office will sit on a North West Producers Forum panel with Kristian Smith, Greater Manchester Production Fund Manager, to discuss the newly announced £10.5 million Greater Manchester Production Fund. The office will also sponsor a networking session, “Networking at KUDOS”, the same day, aimed at connecting filmmakers with industry professionals.
Local Impact and Programme
Cllr Debbie Newall, Executive Cabinet Member for Culture, said the festival contributes to Bolton’s visitor economy and showcases talent from around the world. Bolton Film Office Manager Fiona Fung added that the event draws enthusiasts of all levels and underscores entertainment as part of Bolton’s DNA. Festival Director Adrian Barber highlighted the decade-long milestone, the return of Oscar winners Chris Overton and Rachel Shenton to present the Slick Films Fund, and the role of volunteers in launching industry careers.
The schedule spans every short-film genre – animation, sci-fi, comedy, horror, drama and documentary – and includes a free family-friendly screening on Saturday afternoon that requires no reservation.
Tickets, the full programme and industry talks are available on www.boltonfilmfestival.com, while visitors can plan their stay using www.visitbolton.com. All screenings take place at The Light Cinema, Market Place, BL1 2AL.
Source: Bolton Council – news
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