Reel Voices

Applications are now closed for the first edition of CFF’s critic mentorship programme.

You can read the reviews from the 2024 cohort here.

CFF Reel Voices is a new mentoring scheme from the Cambridge Film Festival in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University.

Whether you are considering a career in film criticism or you are already writing reviews and looking to take your work to the next level, this exciting opportunity offers hands-on experience, skill development, and invaluable networking opportunities.

Successful applicants will gain experience as accredited press delegates at the 43rd edition of the Cambridge Film Festival (24-31 October 2024) and participate in many exciting opportunities. They will also participate in two pre-festival workshops and a post-festival career development session, providing valuable insights into film criticism and journalism.

Participants will also have the chance to work with a mentor who will guide them in writing three pieces of film journalism. These pieces will be published on the Cambridge Film Festival’s website and social media channels.

CFF Reel Voices offers participants

In-person workshops and networking events.
Mentoring and feedback from film critics and industry professionals.
Early access to festival content.
Full press accreditation for the 43rd Cambridge Film Festival.
The opportunity to build a portfolio of reviews and have their work published on the Cambridge Film Festival website and social media channels.

Eligibility

Applicants must be aged 18-30.
Local to Cambridgeshire (please note, this is an in-person programme).
A strong interest in film with good writing skills.
Fluent in English, both spoken and written.
We welcome participants from all backgrounds and underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities, from minority communities, or disadvantaged backgrounds.
Applicants must be available for the duration of this year’s Cambridge Film Festival (24-31 October 2024). Please do not apply if you are unavailable on these dates.