The Watershed Media Centre and the Arnolfini art gallery and cinema will host the 1997 Brief Encounters Festival in Bristol on November 20-30. The festival, now in its third year, has a varied programme of events including new films and premi res, training in screenwriting, and a conference on the short film. An extensive education programme offers students the chance to make their own film. School and college screenings are free. Admission from Pounds 3.80 (Pounds 2.50 concessions). Details: Louise Jennings, 0117 922 4628.