Held during the important pre-MIFED London Screenings, the Raindance Film Festival targets international film acquisition executives in London prior to the Milan market, and attracts an eclectic audience of leading industry professionals and genuine film fans.
Raindance aims to reflect the cultural, visual and narrative diversity of international independent filmmaking by screening the best of independent features, shorts and documentaries sourced across the world. Visiting filmmakers are invited to introduce their films, to participate in question and answer sessions, and join in forum discussions open to the public.
Raindance has hosted the UK and English premiers of Pulp Fiction, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?, The Blair Witch Project, Wonderland, and this year’s Oscar nominees On The Ropes, and Killing Joe by British director Mehdi Norowzian.
Say Nanette Burstein & Brett Morgan, directors/producers of On The Ropes (USA): “Raindance was very important to us, as it was the first festival that ‘On The Ropes’ played in Europe. Festivals like Raindance played a major role in helping us reach an international audience.” Adds Farren Blackburn, director of Going For Broke (UK) winner of the recent Sky Movie Max Cut Short Award: “Raindance affords filmmakers like myself crucial exposure. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am right now. I have won an award, have a development deal for my feature, and signed with ICM”.
Eligible films will be considered for the Raindance Official Selection of outstanding features and shorts, nominated by the Raindance Jury to screen in a prime-time slot each evening. Other festival highlights include New British Directors, The Spanish Acquisition, and Eat My Shorts. This year Raindance is proud to present Raindance Kids, dedicated specially to screening features, documentaries and shorts (live-action or animated), either made by or made for children.
Closing date for submissions is August 15, 2000. All features and shorts must have been completed on or after September 1, 1999. For a submission form, please call [ 020 7287 3833 ] or check the festival website at [ www.raindance.co.uk/ ] .
