Craig Prater, former executive director of the Nortel Networks Palm Springs International Film Festival, has launched a rival - and competitive - festival in the Palm Springs region called Festival Of Festivals.

Set to take place this year between Oct 25 and Nov 4, the new event will screen films in venues across the Palm Springs valley, California, including Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert and Palm Springs.

Features and shorts are eligible for entry and prizes (deadline: Aug 30) will be awarded in categories including best female director, favourite children's film or video, best film from the Jewish collection, best film selected by the jury, audience favourite, best film addressing diversity through education, best digital film, best film depicting community spirit and best short film.