Briony Hanson has been the Director of Film for the British Council since 2011, and is responsible for overseeing promotion of British films and filmmakers across the world.

Before this, she has been involved with activities across the spectrum of the film industry, beginning her career as Director/Programmer of Tyneside Cinema, then joining the BFI Programme Unit to provide regional programme advice and curate nationwide film tours. In the same period, Briony curated for Channel 4’s Independent Film & Video Dept, and co-programmed the London Lesbian & Gay Film Festival from 1996-2000.

She was then Director of The Script Factory for 10 years, programming and chairing live events internationally, and overseeing its web and public presence.

She has also worked as a film critic, writing for various publications and appearing on BBC Culture Show, Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour, Front Row and The Film Programme.  She also co-edited the 2008 Filmmakers’ Yearbook for A&C Black, and was the Film Editor for DIVA Magazine from 2007-11.

She is a board Member of the Grierson Trust , Birds Eye View, and European Film Promotion.

The British Council is the UK’s international cultural relations organisation, operating in over 100 countries worldwide. In leading the film department, Briony’s directive is to increase international audiences for new work from the UK and to broker opportunities for UK film communities to engage with their international counterparts and develop long standing relationships.

Film of the Month is open for short film submissions until August 14th. The three films with the most votes from a shortlist of twelve will be send to Briony for her feedback and advice. The top three also win Vimeo+ memberships.