Celebrating the best international animation the 2nd annual FAN (Film Arts Norwich) International Animation Festival will begin on 25 October 2001 in Norwich, Norfolk.

As well as showcasing inspiring new animations and providing a wealth of networking opportunities, events in this year’s festival will include:

The International Competition: From over 300 entries the international panel of judges will present awards in 8 categories: Best International Animation, Best Independent Animation, Best Student Animation, Best Music Animation, Best Experimental Animation, Best Animated Advert and Best Commercial Animation as well as the Cinewomen Award for Best Female Director in all categories. All award nominations will be previewed during the festival with the winners announced at the Closing Ceremony on 28th October.

Japan 2001: The Festival will begin with Manga Mania launch night, bringing together music and moving image from Japan and the UK. Previews of the latest animation, computer game design, commercials and pop promos will be screened throughout the festival.

Behind The Scenes at Aardman: An opportunity to see the best and most recent short form work from Aardman. Representatives from Aardman will be on hand to provide a behind the scenes glimpse at the UK’s busiest animation studio.

Retrospectives: Tim Hope, creator of The Wolf Man, Six of One and a wealth of music promos will present a programme including some of his earlier works. animate! presents An Audience with Andrew Kotting, director of live action features Gallivant and This Filthy Earth.

Regional Previews: Norwich School of Art and Design presents a programme of recent graduate’s work and a selection of animations resulting from the international joint project with Arts Visuel Orleans. East Anglian Film Archive will present an historic programme of animated films, adverts and experiments from the region.

NOTE : A full programme of events and award nominations will issued shortly.