It is co-produced by the Byre Theatre and the Film Studies Department at the University of St Andrews with lead sponsorship from Joe Russo through his production company, AGBO.
[1] The festival is a three-day event showcasing international cinema to local, national and international audiences, as well as hosting film-related events and workshops for filmmakers and creators.
[2] In 2024, the inaugural Sands golf tournament became part of the festival's wider activities.
[3] Since his daughter's enrolment at the university to study film in 2014, Joe Russo had developed affection for Scotland and a close relationship with St Andrews.
Impressed with his experience and engagement with the community, he eventually approached the university to start a film festival.