Sunderland Shorts heads to Germany

A North East short film festival is taking its show on the road and showcasing regional filmmaking talent on the European stage.

Sunderland Shorts Film Festival is heading to Germany next month through a new collaboration with the Snowdance Film Festival in Essen. 

A selection of films made in the North East will be screened as part of the partnership, which brings together two established European short film events.

Founded in 2015, Sunderland Shorts has grown into the North East’s largest short film festival, celebrating new British and international short films and music videos, while also holding British Independent Film Awards qualifying status and a Top 100 global ranking on Filmfreeway.

Through the collaboration, both festivals aim to expand their international reach, diversify their programming and foster deeper cultural understanding between UK and German audiences.

The programme will feature a mix of comedy, animation, drama and documentary films rooted in North East stories and settings.

Chris Allan, Sunderland Shorts Film Festival director and film engagement officer at Culture House, said: “Every year we have the privilege of sharing some of the best new films around here in the city. 

“It is a joy to have this opportunity to be able to share work produced here in the region to a wider international audience and shine a spotlight on why the North East of England is fast becoming a powerhouse for some of the most exciting new voices in filmmaking and storytelling.”

Councillor Beth Jones, cabinet member of communities, culture and tourism at Sunderland City Council, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the quality of Sunderland Shorts Film Festival to a new audience and shine a spotlight on some of the great work of North East film makers. 

“It is also a great opportunity to continue to build on the longstanding partnership between Sunderland and Essen, which have been twinned since 1949, and I hope that the relationship between the two festivals will continue to grow for many years to come.”

Sunderland Shorts returns to the city from 11 to 17 May, presented by Culture House, with further details on screenings and events to be announced soon.

To find out more about Sunderland Shorts, click here.

The Snowdance Independent Film Festival takes place from 4 February at venues across the city of Essen, with the Sunderland Shorts showcase taking place at Sabu at the Lichtburg on Sunday, February 8 from 3pm. 

For more information, see here.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →