BLACKBURN FESTIVAL OF FILM (BFoF)

Lancashire’s best films and brightest talents

The Blackburn Festival of Film (BFoF) will bring filmmaking to the National Festival of Making.

Our intent is to proudly celebrate local talent that has made it on national and international screens. We will provide a platform for Lancashire’s next generation of young creatives to showcase their work. We aim to inspire young people so that they can see a career in the film and television industries is within their grasp. Workshops with industry leading practitioners will complement the 2-3 day programme and ensure that education is at the heart of the festival.

We are committed to inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. Across the festival programme, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry-leading professionals through workshops, screenings and Q&A’s covering essential aspects of filmmaking—from screenwriting to cinematography and costume design. These sessions are designed to equip young creatives with practical skills and valuable insights, helping them turn their cinematic ambitions into reality.

Central to this will be the impressive works of local creatives. This will include films from Blackburn College’s Blackburn Film Academy, participants from the British Film Institute-backed Saturday Club and our friends at UCLan. These films promise to offer fresh perspectives and creative storytelling.

The festival also supports local talent through our soon to be announced short film fund. Starting in January, we will invite filmmakers to submit their projects for a chance to receive grants that will help bring their ideas to life. With backing from the Blackburn Film Academy and access to essential resources, this initiative aims to foster new talent and encourage the creation of high-quality films within the Blackburn with Darwen borough.

Don’t miss out on this exciting celebration of film and creativity. Whether you’re a film lover or an aspiring filmmaker, the Blackburn Festival of Film (BFoF) offers an enriching experience that will support and showcase the best of local and international cinema. We look forward to seeing you there!

The Blackburn Festival of Film is now open for applications!

Alongside an exciting panel of guest speakers and workshops we will be hosting running an exciting short film competition. The categories available are:

• Best Drama
• Best Horror
• Best Comedy
• Best Student

We are so excited to launch the Blackburn Festival of Film this summer, celebrating the best of the North and incredible films from around the world! Short films that fit the above catergorise

Over two jam-packed days, we’re bringing together filmmakers, industry pros, and film lovers for a festival full of inspiration, creativity, and hands-on experiences. Expect Q&A sessions with special guests, a thrilling short film competition with awards up for grabs, and interactive sessions where you can try out cameras and easy rigs.

Whether you join us to learn from top industry voices, showcase your work, or just soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. And when the sun sets, our evening networking events are the perfect chance to meet like-minded creatives and celebrate film in all its forms. We look forward to seeing you there!

To find out more, and to enter your own short film, visit our filmfreeway page below.

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