What happens at a Stafford Film Festival screening

If you have never been to a film festival, the word can sound like it belongs to somebody else. It does not. Here is what actually happens.

The films

Features, shorts, documentaries and animation from around the world, shown together in one sitting. The programme is chosen to bring audiences stories they would not otherwise see. Foreign language films screen with subtitles.

The Q&As

After selected films the filmmaker takes questions from the audience. Ask anything. This is the part people remember, and it is the reason we push so hard for filmmakers to be in the room rather than watching from home.

The awards

Winners are announced and trophies presented. The Audience Choice Award is decided by the people who are there, on the night.

The conversation

Filmmakers, film lovers and local creatives in one place. Stay after the screening and talk. No industry pass required, and nobody is going to ask what you do for a living.

You do not need to know anything about film to enjoy any of this. You need a seat and a couple of hours.