WEDNESDAY 16 – SUNDAY 20 NOVEMBER17TH ENCOUNTERS BRISTOL INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVALThe big thinking short film festival (The Guardian)Bristol’s big celebration of short film returns this November, showcasing the best animation and live action talent from around the world. This year the five day festival will feature special programmes from Bristol to Brazil; a series of focused symposiums on future ideas and future trends with industry specialists; an animation profile with Studio AKA, the creators behind the Loyds TSB campaigns; 3D and RED Camera workshops plus much more. With free events and stellar guests including Francine Stock, presenter of Radio Four’s The Film Programme presented by The Festival of Ideas, there’s something for everyone this year at Encounters Film Festival. The full festival programme, delegate registration and online ticket sales will be available from 4 October. For more information visit www.encounters-festival.org.uk. Find us on Facebook and Twitter @EncountersSFF #ENC2011ABOUT THE FESTIVAL:Encounters Bristol International Film Festival is the umbrella festival for Animated Encounters and Brief Encounters which together presents one of the world’s best-known showcases and meeting points for new and established international short and animation film talent. Encounters is the longest running competitive short film festival in the country, and is now the leading UK gateway to the world’s most prestigious short film awards including Academy Awards®, BAFTAs, Cartoon d’Or and the European Film Awards. Encounters seeks to promote the importance of short film as a means to develop and progress the next generation of UK film and animation talent. The 2011 festival takes place in Bristol, UK, between 16 – 20 November. The festival is funded by the BFI, Bristol City Council and South West Screen.Encounters Festivals Ltd operates as an independent company and is a registered charity.TICKETS: General Prices (unless otherwise stated). Tickets will be available on sale from 4 October 2011.Screenings before 16:00 £5/£4 conc.Screenings after 16:00 £7/5.50 conc.Panels & Masterclasses £6/5 conc.Delegate Passes are also available from www.encounters-festival.org.ukVENUES:To book tickets in person, or by phone, contact the venue:Brief Encounters: Watershed, 1 Canons Road, Bristol, BS1 5TX. Tel: 0117 929 7501Animated Encounters: Arnolfini, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol BS1 4QA. Tel: 0117 917 2300. All venues are fully accessible.MEDIA ENQUIRIESFor further information, images, interviews contact:Mireia O’Prey, Festival Coordinator, Mireia.oprey@encounters-festival.org.uk+44 (0)117 929 9188 Encounters Festivals Ltd, Watershed, 1 Canon’s Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX