By Jenna Baker, Third year, Film and English
Placed conveniently in the centre of Bristol by the picturesque harbourside, Watershed's colourful lights consistently perforated other wise dim, rainy evenings during my less than consistent first year. As a Film and TV student, the chance to see independent films at a cheap price (£6 for under 24 year olds!) was a haven for me when I wanted to escape the mania of living in halls.
Inside, are three screens, comfortable and always hosting a vibrant and friendly crowd, as well as a cafe and bar serving film-themed and seasonal drinks. The pervasive media studio and the wide range of events hosted there is what makes Watershed stand out as a venue.
From weekly lunchtime talks to networking events, young people are not just encouraged but truly valued in the events space, frequently Watershed has hosted various early career meet ups for 18-30'(ish)' year olds, to come together, socialise and gain expertise from creative industry professionals. On Fridays, the Pervasive media studio is open to the public. You can get to know the space and the resident community of artists that work there, whilst studying outside of the sometimes intense atmosphere of Uni libraries. Wether it's art, film, technology or media you're interested in, weekly Lunchtime talks are also an excellent way to gain insight into specific aspects of different industries and topics.
Whilst I have yet to make use of all the opportunities available, (simply because there's so many) I managed to gain amazing experience working as a Social Media Reporter at Watershed's annual 'Cinema Rediscovered' film festival. Taking place in the summer, this journalistic scheme is a great way to gain experience, especially if you don't have any, meet industry professionals and other film fanatics, whilst also being granted exceptional creative freedom over the content you cover. A highlight of this event for me was an Imax screening of Wim Wenders' enchanting neo-western Paris, Texas (1984). As well as looking great on your cv, another massive plus is you get free access to the festival. I had a lot of fun whilst gaining valuable experience, seeing a variety of unique films and meeting the team at Watershed, who clearly care about nurturing young talent. Epigram's partnership with Watershed also allows student writers to gain access to screenings, FOR FREE! Tickets usually come out monthly and are available on a first come first serve basis through our Film & TV Whatsapp group.
As well as Cinema Rediscovered, Watershed hosts various filmic events and festivals throughout the year. Encounters Film Festival takes place every year, with screenings in Watershed, Arnolfini and Bristol Beacon (this year it was the 24th-28th September), showcasing new directors and short films. Previous entrant Charlotte Wells (director of Aftersun, 2022) believes 'Encounters opened the door to the industry for [her].'
BFI London film festival is also coming to Watershed from the 8th-19th October, with early previews of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery (Rian Johnson), starring Fleabags' (2016) hot priest Andrew Scott alongside a cast of A-listers, including Mila Kunis and Daniel Craig. Director of The Favourite (2018) and Poor Things (2023), Yorgos Lanthimos' next film Bugonia will also be previewing as well as Guillermo del Toro's take on Frankenstein and The Mastermind, directed by up and coming director Kelly Reichardt. If you're into neo-westerns, check out First Cow (2019). Showcasing the talent of rising star and Indie cinema heartthrob Josh O'Connor, as well as Saltburn (2023, Emerald Fennell) star Jacob Elordi. Other Films coming soon you won't want to miss include Die, my love, starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattison, The History of Sound, starring Josh O'Connor (again!) and Paul Mescal and Harris Dickinson's directorial debut Urchin. Bristol Palestine Film Festival will also be showcasing and amplifying a diverse range of Palestinian voices, which is coming to Watershed this November.
Another perk of Watershed is 'Undershed,' an immersive gallery, currently showcasing an exhibition which blends gameplay with narration from Tilda Swinton, about the experience of living with ADHD. Using immersive AI technology, the exhibition is innovative and entirely sensory in it's portrayal of very real lived experiences.
Prioritising accessibility, Watershed also hosts relaxed screenings, designed to benefit anyone with additional needs, (or if you just want to avoid the crowds!) to provide more spacious and quieter screenings. With quieter sound and a reduced capacity, these showings have a more relaxed feel, with films starting promptly on time with no adverts or trailers.
For a post screening debrief, head to The White Lion on Colston Ave, a quaint pub that escapes the slightly hectic city centre. With my personal experience of Watershed, I can safely say it is my favourite venue in Bristol to fit any mood. So if you're new to Bristol or just haven't managed to check it out yet, keep an eye on Epigram's social media and our Film and TV Whatsapp group for upcoming tickets and opportunities. In the mean time, definitely go and explore the gem that is Watershed.
Featured Image: Felix Glanville/ Epigram
Will you make the most of Watershed and take advantage of the renewed partnership?
