The Purbeck Film Festival in Dorset is preparing to celebrate its 30th anniversary after its first screening at the Mowlem Theatre in Swanage in 1996.
Now the largest rural film festival in the UK, the event has grown significantly from its modest beginnings.
This year’s festival, running from 17 October to 2 November, will feature screenings at 32 venues across the region, highlighting a wide range of films and community programming.
Festival director, Claire Burns said: “This year we’re really excited as we have a new venue, and we’re hoping it’ll be a great success.”
The newest addition to the venue list is the Langham Wine Estate, offering a unique setting aimed at expanding the festival’s reach and drawing in new audiences.
Organisers say the festival’s mission goes beyond just displaying films – they hope to change how people view the film industry and the way films are consumed in a digital age.
A key part of the festivals initiative is to shine spotlight on lesser known works, including short films and film directors that deserve more recognition within the industry.
We’re hoping to open people’s minds to smaller film franchises and short films.
Claire added: “You’d be surprised how much emotion and story a short film can contain.”
From village halls and historic sites to vineyards and churches, the Purbeck Film Festival continues to embrace creative venues and community spirit, supporting its identity as a locally rooted yet nationally respected event.
Hamworthy United host Kintbury Rangers Saturday afternoon