Interview with Becky Carrier, Director of the Northampton Film Festival
You can listen to the interview here.
Q: What is the Northampton Film Festival?
Becky: The Northampton Film Festival is an annual celebration of cinema, showcasing a diverse range of short and feature length films from local, national, and international filmmakers. We feature talent from across the UK, including Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England. The festival highlights emerging talent, provides networking opportunities, and hosts engaging panel discussions and workshops.
Q: When and where does the festival take place?
Becky: The festival runs from 7th to 15th March 2025 and takes place across multiple venues in Northampton, including cinemas, community spaces, and cultural hubs.
For three days, we will be screening films at Delapré Abbey, with additional screenings at the University of Northampton for one day and Northampton Filmhouse for five days. We’re also hosting events at The Creative Place, which will be the smallest cinema in the world! For the first time, our awards ceremony will be held at Northampton’s Guildhall, a venue steeped in the rebel and revolutionary history of Northamptonshire.
As locations may vary each year, we recommend checking our official website or social media for the latest updates.
Q: Who participates in the festival?
Becky: Filmmakers of all levels are encouraged to submit their work—from students and independent creators to established professionals. Our awards include various categories, such as short films, feature films, documentaries, and experimental works.
Q: What kind of films are showcased?
Becky: We embrace a wide variety of genres and storytelling styles. Audiences can expect dramas, comedies, thrillers, animations, documentaries, and avant-garde films that push creative boundaries.
Q: Can you give any spoilers or tip-offs about films to look out for?
Becky: I love all our films, so it’s hard to choose!
That said, our young people particularly enjoyed ‘Drain Spotting’, a brilliant documentary featured in our comedy programming at Delapré Abbey on Sunday morning. Audiences will be surprised by its subject matter!
A key theme this year is identity—what makes people unique. Many filmmakers explore personal and cultural identity in their work. We also have a strong focus on disability representation, with several films made by or starring people with disabilities. One standout documentary is ‘Six for Gold’, which follows a local athlete’s journey.
To mark International Women’s Day, we are hosting larger events at Delapré Abbey, screening films with women at the forefront—either behind or in front of the camera.
Q: Are there awards given at the festival?
Becky: Yes, we host an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding achievements in categories such as Best Short Film, Best Feature, Best Director, and Audience Choice. These awards celebrate creativity and excellence in filmmaking.
Q: Can the public attend screenings and events?
Becky: Absolutely! Film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and general audiences are all welcome to attend screenings, Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and workshops. Some events require tickets, while others are free.
Q: What makes the Northampton Film Festival unique?
Becky: Our festival has a strong community focus, celebrating Northampton’s rich cultural heritage and its growing film industry. While we attract talent from around the UK, we also provide a platform for local filmmakers to gain exposure.
One of the most rewarding aspects is discovering talented filmmakers based in Northamptonshire who haven’t yet made their mark. It’s incredible to see just how many creative people are here!
We are also thrilled to screen UK premieres of films from Northamptonshire—films that will go on to other festivals but have chosen Northampton Film Festival as their launchpad. That’s something really special.
Q: How can people stay updated on festival news?
Becky: The best way to stay informed is by following us on social media, subscribing to our newsletter, or visiting our official website for announcements, ticket information, and schedules.
For full details on all the films being shown at NFF including links ticket bookings, visit the Northampton Film Festival website at: Northamptonfilmfestival.co.uk