With science fiction story-lines and topics of sexuality proving to be big discussion starters here on Short of the Week, it would have seemed like an opportunity missed if we didn't speak to emerging filmmaker Connor Hurley about his short film The Naturalist. Based around concepts of genetically altering sexual orientation and set in an unspecified dystopian future, we talked to the director about the influence of existing work on his narrative/tone and looked at how he went about creating a timeless aesthetic for his film: It's hard not talk about The Naturalist without first looking at the concept - where did the idea for the narrative come from? I remember I was probably around 12 years old, pursuing both my passion for filmmaking and facing questions of my own sexuality.

Back for its first in-person edition since 2019, the UK’s leading short film Encounters returns to Bristol with an eclectic programme of short films, industry panels and interactive experiences.