BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL
Image: Still from Mrs Harris Goes to Paris screening at the Cunard British Film Festival
When most film festivals were cancelled or screened online last year owing to the restrictions and shutdowns associated with Covid-19, the British Film Festival incredibly experienced its biggest year ever owing to the presentation of popular titles The Duke and Belfast.
“We were fortunate that the timing was right. I remember No Time To Die opened the week before or the week of this film festival so it was a really vibrant time for cinemas after one of the final lockdowns,” explained festival director, Kim Petalas.
This year is the tenth anniversary of the festival and it should also prove to be equally if not more successful, with a carefully curated program of 22 of the best new British feature films and documentaries, and the 60 Years Of Bond retrospective.
The opening night film is the period drama Mrs Harris Goes To Paris, a delightful film with an abundance of colour and fashion that centres on a woman who falls in love with a beautiful Dior dress. She travels to Paris to purchase one which leads to new beginnings. The pre film reception includes delicious British fare, popcorn, gin & tonics, mocktails and atmospheric music.
British cinema has a very unique flavour with standout qualities that sets it aside from other countries. “I think they have that stark realism and our audiences really appreciate and understand the characters in these films as we identify with them,” explained Petalas.
The Australian premiere screening of Empire Of Light is one of the centrepiece events and promises to be a highlight at the festival. Human connection is explored in this poignant love letter to cinema set in the 1980’s.
“This is a beautiful film direct from the London Film Festival with an amazing cast that includes Olivia Colman and Colin Firth. It’s also an official selection in the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival.”
For James Bond fans there’s a selection of 14 of the most popular films screening in the 60 Years of Bond retrospective highlighting the iconic style of these adventurous agents.
“This franchise has been incredibly successful because these films have action, scenery, beautiful locations, and attractive cast members. They’re sexy films and the franchise has grown and grown since Dr No, the first in the series, which was produced in 1962 and starred Sean Connery in the titular role,” enthused Petalas.
And why should moviegoers go along and catch a film or two at this film festival?
“I believe we’ve selected the best British films which are highly entertaining and featuring wonderful casts. There’s real quality in this year’s festival and I firmly believe this is the strongest that we’ve put together yet,” concluded Petalas.
HOT PICKS
THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN – is a wonderful film which teams Colin Farrell with Brendan Gleeson and Martin McDonagh, director of the critically acclaimed In Bruges. A standout drama set during the Irish civil war which explores themes of friendship.
THE LOST KING – a brilliant film based on the true story about the discovery of the remains of King Richard III beneath a carpark in Leicester 10 years ago. Stars Sally Hawkins and Steve Coogan. A must see!
FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS 2: ONE AND ALL: The sequel to 2019’s box office favourite looks at the ongoing trials and tribulations of the hit Cornwall band, as their record label gets edgy feet when the lead singer leaves the band. Expect romance and a blend of beautiful vocals from these fishermen. A definite crowd pleaser.
