Record 400 entries for High Peak Independent Film Festival

Nicole Pott, festival director, and actor Ray William Butler who hosted the 2019 awards.

Short and feature films have poured in from 35 countries around the world including America, Canada, Russia, Australia, France and Spain.

The Covid-19 pandemic resulted in organisers putting the festival being put back to the autumn and they are delighted with the response and support from film-makers.

Festival director Nicole Pott said: “Lockdown has presented challenges but also opportunities as this festival looks set to be the best yet.

“I am so pleased we have been able to ensure film makers continue to have the chance to showcase their work across and have been stunned by the quality of work submitted.

“It is going to make selecting those to be screened during the festival a difficult job.”

A team of five is now reviewing each and every entry - watching more than 100 hours of film. Panelists will then come together to choose a programme of films, curated and managed by Nicholas Bimson.

The successful filmmakers will be notified on July 31 about which films make it through to the festival that will run at New Mills Art Theatre, from October 23 to 25.

A jury made up of industry experts including film reviewers, producers and writers will then select the award nominees in the various categories with the winners announced at the prestigious red-carpet awards gala on the final night of the festival.

The event will also feature networking and industry talks as well as the return of the ten-hour Filmmaking Challenge.

“We are continually working to expand the festival and will be bringing even more events and films, so watch this space.” said Nicole.

High Peak Independent Film Festival is run by volunteers and was launched in 2016 with the aim of providing a platform for filmmakers from across the globe to showcase their work and to meet other enthusiasts.

This year’s sponsors include New Mills Art Theatre, Midland Movies, Clayton accountants and UK Film Review.

The latest information about the festival is available on the website www.highpeakindie.comor on social media.