Lodaer Img

Author: Steve

Bournemouth International Film Festival - Snorkeling

Snorkeling, Stillness, and the Power of Intimate Storytelling

Snorkeling, Stillness, and the Power of Intimate Storytelling Sometimes it’s the quiet ones that hit hardest. The first trailer for Snorkeling, the upcoming romance starring Kristine Froseth and directed by Emil Nava, has landed online  and it doesn’t shout. It leans in. Tender, seaside, and beautifully self-contained, the film is due out in July, and might just be one of the summer’s understated gems. What’s striking about Snorkeling  even from its brief trailer, is how confidently it occupies space. It’s not loud or fast or packaged with a viral moment. Instead, it offers something increasingly rare in a crowded release calendar: emotional stillness. A Romance That Remembers Reality Set in a coastal village, the film follows a woman returning to her hometown and rekindling an unexpected connection. The visuals suggest something tactile and deeply felt, more memory than movie. It’s the kind of story that trusts audiences to stay with it, not because of plot twists, but because of tone. For UK filmmakers, especially those working in indie or micro-budget formats, Snorkeling is a quiet reminder that less can be much more. A compelling location, a human core, and honest performances can carry more emotional weight than a dozen drones or four plotlines. Emil Nava Steps Behind the Camera Known for his work in music videos, Emil Nava moves into narrative territory here with what looks like a remarkably restrained touch. That crossover  from short-form visual work to feature storytelling is a space many filmmakers in the UK are exploring. It’s encouraging to see Nava treat the transition not with flash, but with focus. And for actors like Kristine Froseth, who’s carved a path through emotionally rich indie projects (Looking for Alaska, Sharp Stick), Snorkeling seems like a continuation of her ability to anchor a film through presence alone. What This Means for Festival Programmers For curators (including first-time festivals like us at BIFF), Snorkeling is a reminder that audience connection doesn’t require scale it requires sincerity. There’s a growing appetite for work that feels real, grounded, and emotionally honest. It’s also a sign that more music video or short-form creators might be ready to make their first narrative feature and festivals have a real opportunity to be their launchpads. A Moment of Quiet in a Loud Year As big studios ramp up content, and headlines swing between box office chaos and streaming deals, a film like Snorkeling makes its entrance with grace and purpose. It may not make a billion, but it might make someone feel something real. And ultimately, that’s what festivals and film are here for. Part of what makes a festival so powerful is its point of view. Every programme is a statement  about what matters, what excites, what deserves more space. BIFF’s inaugural edition is about doing just that. We’re not only screening films we love; we’re building a conversation we want others to join. We believe in new voices, in unexpected stories, and in giving space to films that might otherwise go unseen. The best festivals aren’t just watching trends, they’re setting them. Buy Your Tickets Today! Submit via CenterFrame All Posts BIFF Judges Editorial Hospitality Partner News Venue Partner Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival, And Why Now? June 16, 2025/ Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival — And Why Now In the ever-expanding world of film festivals, from the Cannes… Read More BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions June 6, 2025/ BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and… Read More BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner June 4, 2025/ BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner We are proud to announce Chine Financial as the official Finance Partner… Read More Load More End of Content.

Learn More
Bournemouth Pier - Bournemouth International Film Festival

Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival, And Why Now?

Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival — And Why Now In the ever-expanding world of film festivals, from the Cannes red carpet to backyard community screenings, it’s easy to ask: do we really need another one? But as Bournemouth Film Festival prepares for its inaugural edition, we’re not just adding another date to the calendar. We’re answering a cultural call and a local one at that too. A Cultural Hotspot Without a Cultural Showcase Bournemouth has always had the spirit. The coastline brings beauty, the students bring energy, and the creatives bring ideas. But what’s been missing is a shared space to celebrate that — a place where stories, screens and communities collide. Cities smaller than Bournemouth have long-established film festivals. So why has this town, with its blend of tradition and vibrancy, been left without one? The truth is, now more than ever, feels like the right moment. “I’ve worked in film and TV for over 15 years, I’ve seen how festivals energise towns and unlock voices. Bournemouth deserves that.”— Steve McCarten, Festival Director Film Festivals Are More Than Just Screenings At their best, festivals are platforms. Not just for filmmakers to share work, but for audiences to feel something new. They’re about the unexpected — a debut short that moves you more than a blockbuster, a post-screening conversation that stays with you, a venue that transforms how you experience a story. And for filmmakers? Festivals are where careers begin. https://youtu.be/svF-bsn-U7A?si=sK6WfTkCQDUdRbhThttps://youtu.be/lKxJKuw8deI?si=4VPJEBWQ4vSvWoCA We want BIFF to be that kind of space — surprising, nurturing, rooted. Creating Something Local and Lasting We’re not trying to be a carbon copy of big-name festivals. BIFF is designed around the creative energy of the South Coast. Our goal is to platform emerging voices, spotlight bold storytelling, and build bridges between local communities and international ideas. We’ll champion short films, debut features, regional talent and overlooked perspectives. We’ll host conversations, not just Q&As. And we’ll make sure every audience member feels part of something, not just in the room. This is about more than film. It’s about pride in place. It’s about seeing your town on screen and feeling it deserves to be there.”— Steve McCarten The Timing Is Right — And Overdue The last few years have changed how we gather, how we watch, and how we tell stories. Now, more than ever, people are seeking connection. BIFF is about providing that through film. Bournemouth has the audiences. It has the venues. It has the potential. What it needs now is a festival that ties it all together. We’re building BIFF from the ground up — for filmmakers, film lovers, and the future of storytelling in Bournemouth. This is the beginning. We hope you’ll be part of it. Buy Your Tickets Today! Submit via CenterFrame All Posts BIFF Judges Editorial Hospitality Partner News Venue Partner Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival, And Why Now? June 16, 2025/ Why Bournemouth Needs a Film Festival — And Why Now In the ever-expanding world of film festivals, from the Cannes… Read More BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions June 6, 2025/ BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and… Read More BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner June 4, 2025/ BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner We are proud to announce Chine Financial as the official Finance Partner… Read More Load More End of Content.

Learn More

BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions

BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions We’re thrilled to announce a new partnership between the Bournemouth International Film Festival (BIFF) and Centerframe, the creative platform and community built by and for filmmakers. As we launch our 2025 edition, Centerframe will act as an official submission platform for filmmakers and screenwriters entering BIFF making the process smoother, smarter, and more aligned with the creative community we’re here to support. Why this matters BIFF was created to champion new voices in film, emerging talent, independent vision, and first-time creators. We want the process of submitting your work to be as empowering as the work itself. Centerframe is a natural partner for that vision. Founded by filmmakers, the platform is more than a tool, it’s a space where creators connect, collaborate, and get their work seen by the right people. It’s also free for filmmakers to join and easy to use, with built-in features designed to elevate your project and your voice. Together, we’re making it easier than ever for filmmakers and screenwriters to submit their work to BIFF, and be part of something bigger. Submissions are now open If you’re a filmmaker or writer with a story that deserves a spotlight, we want to hear from you. Submissions for BIFF 2025 are officially open via Centerframe: 👉 Submit now on Centerframe We’ll be selecting outstanding films and scripts for: Public and industry screenings Live Q&As and panel events The BIFF Awards, including Best Feature, Best Short, Best Screenplay and so much more Whether it’s your first script or your tenth film, this is your chance to be part of something bold, inclusive, and new. This is just the beginning BIFF is building something for the long term, a festival that supports creatives from page to screen and beyond. Partnering with Centerframe brings us closer to that mission, and we couldn’t be more excited to open the door to submissions through such a trusted, creator-first platform. Let’s build the future of film together. Steve McCartenFestival Director All Posts Hospitality Partner News Venue Partner BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions June 6, 2025/ BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and Screenwriter Submissions BIFF x Centerframe: A New Home for Filmmaker and… Read More BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner June 4, 2025/ BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner We are proud to announce Chine Financial as the official Finance Partner… Read More BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration June 4, 2025/ BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration We’re proud to announce that Bournemouth International Film Festival (BIFF)… Read More Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity May 31, 2025/ Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity A recent post made the rounds in the film… Read More Call for Volunteer Pre-Selectors – Help Shape BIFF 2025 May 26, 2025/ Are you passionate about film and curious about how a festival programme comes together behind the scenes? We’re looking for… Read More Welcome Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith to the BIFF Family May 8, 2025/ We are super excited to announce Cherene is joining BIFF as Head of Programming and Strategic Relations.  Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith is… Read More Hilton Bournemouth April 14, 2025/ Venue & Hospitality Partner: Hilton Bournemouth We are proud to announce Hilton Bournemouth as the official Venue and Hospitality Partner… Read More

Learn More
Chine Financial Logo - Bournemouth International Film Festival

BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner

BIFF2025 Welcomes Chine Financial as Official Finance Partner We are proud to announce Chine Financial as the official Finance Partner for the inaugural Bournemouth International Film Festival, taking place 3–4 October 2025. Chine Financial offers a comprehensive range of financial services from mortgage advisor and protection policies to estate planning and wealth advice all designed with flexibility in mind. They understand the unpredictable nature of freelance life, especially for those working in the TV and Film industry. Whether you’re an actor juggling contracts, a camera operator working project to project, or a producer running your own company, Chine Financial provides tailored solutions to help you plan, protect, and thrive. Their offerings include: Mortgages for freelancers and contractors Life Assurance, Critical Illness Cover, and Income Protection Mortgage Payment Protection for uncertain income periods Business Protection for small production companies and sole traders More than just a financial services firm, Chine Financial is deeply committed to supporting the creative industries. Their partnership with BIFF2025 is a testament to their belief in the power of storytelling, community, and artistic freedom. We’re proud to work with a company that not only provides vital financial security but also shares our vision for an inclusive and thriving creative future. Visit www.chinefinancial.co.uk to learn how they can support your financial journey. 🎬 See you at the Hilton this October.

Learn More

BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration

BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration We’re proud to announce that Bournemouth International Film Festival (BIFF) is now an official member of the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry – the leading voice of business across Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole and the wider region. Visit Dorset Chamber As a not-for-profit organisation committed to cultural development, accessibility, and creative growth, this new partnership marks an exciting step for BIFF as we expand our connections across Dorset’s thriving business community. Why This Matters At its core, BIFF is about more than films — it’s about creating opportunity. We’re here to spotlight emerging talent, build bridges between industries, and support local growth through culture, creativity and commerce. By joining the Dorset Chamber, we’re not just raising the profile of BIFF — we’re opening the door to collaborations, sponsorships, training, and visibility for businesses that want to reach an engaged, diverse, and dynamic audience. A Win for Local Business Whether you’re in hospitality, retail, tech, finance, or creative services, being part of BIFF offers real benefits: Access to audiences of thousands across the South Coast and UK Alignment with a mission-led, community-driven festival Opportunities for brand exposure, staff development, and CSR impact Inclusion in our year-round outreach, education, and industry events As we gear up for BIFF 2025, this partnership is the perfect springboard to connect with like-minded businesses across Dorset and build something truly special — together. Let’s Work Together If you’re a fellow Dorset Chamber member, we’d love to hear from you! Let’s explore how your business could be part of this year’s festival and help us support the next generation of filmmakers. Get in touch today! Your name Your email Subject Your message (optional) All Posts Hospitality Partner News Venue Partner BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration June 4, 2025/ https://dorsetchamber.co.uk/ BIFF Joins Dorset Chamber: A New Chapter in Creative Collaboration We’re proud to announce that Bournemouth International Film Festival… Read More Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity May 31, 2025/ Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity A recent post made the rounds in the film… Read More Call for Volunteer Pre-Selectors – Help Shape BIFF 2025 May 26, 2025/ Are you passionate about film and curious about how a festival programme comes together behind the scenes? We’re looking for… Read More Welcome Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith to the BIFF Family May 8, 2025/ We are super excited to announce Cherene is joining BIFF as Head of Programming and Strategic Relations.  Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith is… Read More Hilton Bournemouth April 14, 2025/ Venue & Hospitality Partner: Hilton Bournemouth We are proud to announce Hilton Bournemouth as the official Venue and Hospitality Partner… Read More

Learn More
BIFF-NewsStoryGetInvolved

Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity

Breaking the Paywall: Why Film Festivals Must Champion Access Over Exclusivity A recent post made the rounds in the film and TV industry: “If I went to every TV industry festival in a year, I’d be spending at least £10,000 just on tickets.” Derek Drennan Supports Creatives In Industry And they weren’t exaggerating. Tickets for major festivals can range from £500 to £1,500 and that’s before travel, accommodation, and other costs. For many aspiring creatives, it’s a financial wall that keeps them out of the room entirely. At Bournemouth International Film Festival (BIFF), we believe there’s a better way. What if festivals made access their priority? We’ve heard it too many times: new voices, especially disabled, Black, working-class, and other underrepresented creatives, are simply priced out of the very festivals meant to showcase them. The result? Less diversity, fewer risks, and stories that too often sound the same. BIFF was created to be the antidote to that. Here’s what we’re doing differently at BIFF 2025: 🎟 Tickets start from just £20.That’s right. You can experience world cinema, panels, and filmmaker Q&As for the price of a takeaway. Full weekend passes are currently on offer via our Crowdfunder campaign. 🎬 We offer submission discounts for students, Gold FilmFreeway members, and first-time filmmakers. 🤝 Selected filmmakers don’t pay to screen.If you’re chosen, your film is shown with no added fees, no small print. 🌍 We run year-round outreach programmes to mentor and support future talent because true cultural growth doesn’t only happen in October. We back people, not profits BIFF is a not-for-profit festival, which means we reinvest everything into the platform, the artists, and the audience. That’s how it should be. Because when you give creatives a place to be seen and heard, everyone wins, especially the future of film. A more inclusive industry starts here Festivals should be about stories. Bold, weird, beautiful stories from people you’ve never heard of… yet. So let’s change the game, not just talk about it. Join us this October. Submit. Attend. Support. Be part of the future. 🎟 View ticket options here🎥 Submit your film or script   We want to see more of those voices in the spotlight. We want to help get them there.

Learn More

Call for Volunteer Pre-Selectors – Help Shape BIFF 2025

Are you passionate about film and curious about how a festival programme comes together behind the scenes? We’re looking for Volunteer Pre-Selectors to help us review submissions for the Bournemouth International Film Festival 2025 and we’d love to have you on board.   What’s the role? As a Pre-Selector, you’ll be part of the programming team helping us choose the films that will light up screens at the Hilton Bournemouth this October. You’ll watch and review a set number of short films, features, animations or documentaries, all from the comfort of your own home and on your own schedule. This is a flexible, remote volunteer opportunity perfect for anyone looking to gain experience in film selection, discover new voices, and be part of something inspiring.   What You’ll Do Watch and assess a number of film submissions  depending on your availability Provide short but valuable written feedback that helps inform final programming decisions Take part in optional online meet-ups to discuss films with fellow pre-selectors and BIFF’s programming team   Who We’re Looking For Film fans with an appreciation for bold storytelling and original ideas People who can critically engage with fiction, non-fiction, animation, and genre cinema Organised, self-motivated individuals able to stick to deadlines and commit to the viewing workload We especially welcome applications from underrepresented communities in the film and media industry   Why Get Involved? Hands-on insight into how festivals curate their line-ups A chance to spot exciting new talent from around the world A free pass to attend BIFF 2025 in Bournemouth this October Connect with other cinephiles and industry professionals Build your CV — many of our volunteers go on to work with other festivals and programming teams This is an unpaid volunteer position with full flexibility around your schedule. Open to applicants UK-wide and beyond, though we’re especially keen to hear from people in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area who want to get more involved with their local cultural scene. 📌 Deadline to apply: 5pm, 31st July 2025📌 Apply now and help us shape the BIFF 2025 programme!

Learn More
Bfi - Bournemouth International Film Festival

Welcome Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith to the BIFF Family

We are super excited to announce Cherene is joining BIFF as Head of Programming and Strategic Relations.  Cherene Bracegirdle-Smith is a dynamic creative force whose unconventional journey from legal and media finance to scripted drama production exemplifies a fresh, multidimensional talent shaping the industry.  Based in the North West of England, she is a multi-skilled Producer, Film Certification Analyst for the British Film Institute and Women’s Business Awards ‘Business Mum of the Year 2025 nominee’, seamlessly blending analytical expertise with artistic vision.  With Production Accounting experience working on High-End TV productions such as The Long Shadow, Champion, A Kind of Spark and Can You Keep a Secret? to her strategic career pivot into Executive producing Hide (2024), a short film which won; 🏆Best Short Film Fiction at North East International Film Festival, 🏆Best North West Film at Manchester Film Festival 2025 and 🏆Main Winner Liverpool Indie Awards 2025 to establishing Last Minute Wonders producing two short films, Olympus Lost (2025) and The Nomophobe (2025) beginning their festival run later this year. Cherene has cultivated a rare skillset that bridges financial oversight with creative execution. Her contributions to award-winning projects reflect a deep understanding of industry standards and audience engagement. She approaches content production with a keen eye for storytelling, ensuring that each project resonates both emotionally and commercially. Cherene is a dedicated and proactive professional who balances a dynamic career with raising six children. Her strong commitment to continuous learning, exceptional organisational skills, and strategic problem-solving set her apart. As a neurodivergent individual (Autism & ADHD), she brings a unique perspective, fostering innovation and efficiency in every endeavour.

Learn More

Hilton Bournemouth

Venue & Hospitality Partner: Hilton Bournemouth We are proud to announce Hilton Bournemouth as the official Venue and Hospitality Partner for the inaugural Bournemouth International Film Festival, taking place 3–4 October 2025. Located just minutes from the seafront and offering panoramic views across the town and coast, Hilton Bournemouth sets the perfect stage for a weekend of creativity, connection, and cinematic celebration. From film screenings to our black-tie awards night, the Hilton will host every part of the festival experience under one roof. Their support not only gives BIFF a prestigious home but also reinforces our shared commitment to elevating cultural events within the region. We’re thrilled to be working with a partner that champions excellence in hospitality and community engagement. 🎬 See you at the Hilton this October. Get Your Tickets Today!

Learn More
Back To Top Img