15.61°C The Colchester Independent Short Film Festival takes place at Firstsite on Saturday 23rd May, bringing together filmmakers, film fans and independent cinema for another evening of screenings, awards and networking.
Now in its sixth year, the festival has become part of Colchester’s wider creative calendar, championing grassroots filmmaking and giving emerging directors a platform to showcase their work.
Festival organiser Nick Pelas says he never expected the event to last this long.
“I did not expect it to grow and last six years, especially when I vow each year that one will be the last,” he says. “That is mainly due to the fact that I am self-funded and organise everything myself.”
The idea for the festival came from Nick’s own experiences trying to get films screened.
“I struggled to get my own film shown and did not want other like-minded people experiencing the same.”
Since its launch, the festival has welcomed submissions across a wide range of genres, from horror and animation to documentary filmmaking.
“There’s a wide variety of genres,” says Nick. “I am always fascinated with the documentary subject matter.”
Films can be no longer than 12 minutes, with awards including Best Film, second place and a special mention category. Entries are reviewed by a screening team before official selections are chosen.
Asked what makes a genuinely great short film, Nick keeps it simple.
“Good pace, good cinematography and a subject that bounces off the screen.”
Over the years, certain filmmakers have stood out.
“I will have to rank Steve Downey and Steven Lancefield up there,” he says. “Their films are really special, and both are prolific filmmakers.”
While short films can often struggle for visibility compared to feature-length cinema, Nick believes festivals like this are helping change that.
“Absolutely,” he says. “More festivals are opening up at this level in Colchester, Essex and beyond. I think I have got the ball rolling.”
Alongside the screenings themselves, the festival also places a strong emphasis on networking and community.
“Networking is fun, and it’s amazing what contacts you can make.”
As for the atmosphere on the night, audiences can expect “some cracking movies, red carpet, networking in a great community environment, which is Firstsite”.
And if you’ve never been to a short film festival before?
“Give it a go.”
The festival is open to everyone, from dedicated film fans to complete newcomers curious to experience something different.
“You will be supporting filmmakers, a great community venue, plus a great night out at a reasonable price,” says Nick. “Tickets are on Eventbrite and selling fast.”
If you enjoy independent cinema, creative events and discovering new filmmakers, this looks set to be another great night at Firstsite.
Tickets for the Colchester Independent Short Film Festival are available here via Eventbrite.
Colchester Independent Short Film Festival organiser Nick Pelas
