The countdown to Bristol’s 14th annual International Encounters Short Film Festival is now underway with the publication of this year’s programme of screenings, awards, celebrity visitors, events and industry debates and the launch of a new online bookings service at www.encounters-festival.org.uk.

The six day celebration of short film and animation, which takes place in Bristol from Tuesday 18 to Sunday 23 November, will feature over 300 short films and animations, from 30 countries, including newly-rediscovered early animations by Alexander Shiryaev, new BBC comedies, the finalists for the 2008 DepicT! 90-second film challenge, the debut short by Turner Art Prize nominee, Sam Taylor Wood, and Come Here Today, starring Rhys Ifans.

Guests confirmed include BAFTA-award-winning actor and director, Paddy Considine; triple Oscar winner, Richard Williams, and Clare Kitson, the former Channel 4 commissioner credited with rejuvenating Britain’s animation industry. For full programme details and ticket sales go to: www.encounters-festival.org.uk.