
FOLKESTONE, UK — Filmmaker Matthew Rowney has been officially nominated for Best Director at the Folkestone Film Festival for his acclaimed short film Blade Runners, a striking piece of British independent cinema that continues to make waves on the festival circuit.
Following its celebrated screening at the London Independent Film Festival and recognition with an Honourable Mention at the ICE Movie Awards, Blade Runners has solidified its reputation as one of the most distinctive UK short dramas of the year.
The nomination for Best Director at Folkestone recognises Rowney’s bold visual storytelling and his ability to merge cinematic scale with deeply personal, character-driven emotion. Blade Runners explores questions of morality and identity in a near-future world where technology and humanity collide — a film that balances genre style with heartfelt substance.
“It’s an honour to have Blade Runners recognised in such a meaningful way,” said Matthew Rowney. “Folkestone has become an incredible space for independent voices, and to be nominated among such talented filmmakers is truly humbling.”
The Folkestone Film Festival, which champions both local and international independent cinema, has grown into one of the UK’s most respected showcases for emerging talent. Rowney’s nomination highlights his growing reputation as one of the most promising young directors in the British indie film scene.
With Blade Runners continuing to earn nominations and festival acclaim, Rowney and the team at Panchariya Brothers Productions are preparing for the film’s next international screenings later this year.