RESPONSE to the inaugural Noosa International Film Festival has been overwhelming with 215 short films from 31 countries being entered.

As a result, judging of the 125 films selected for the festival (Nov 3-6) has had to start early.

Festival curator Arnold Kopff says entries have come from amateur filmmakers, students and professionals. Directors, screenwriters, cinematographers and actors have also contributed their work.

He told Seniors: "A few films have been made on a shoe-string budget, while others have had up to $100,000 invested in their production.

"However, no matter what the budget, the quality and craftsmanship of the submitted films is superb.

"And the number and quality of the entries received from filmmakers on the Sunshine Coast has also been most encouraging.

"Local filmmaker Ian Pugh's short film Angel is one of the films that festival-goers will enjoy. It was shot in Noosa National Park and Hastings Street," he said.

The program will also include seven feature-length titles screened at the BCC Cinemas in Noosa Junction.