Here are a few words from Matt, who is part of Young Film Programmers:
Storyhouse Young Programmers will take over the cinema here at Storyhouse for three days between 22-24 March to bring their very own film festival to life. 3 days, 3 themes, 6 films.
Storyhouse Young Programmers is an opportunity for 15-26-year olds to learn everything it takes to bring films to the big screen. From choosing their films, planning an event, marketing and finally delivering this to the public, by bringing their own film festival to Storyhouse.
This year to ensure everybody has been given equal opportunity to contribute, the group decided to split up into three popular themes that emerged throughout the planning. One group will be producing an immersive cinema experience based around popular films and fashions of the 80s and 90s. Wanting to bring a real element of fun to the cinema they opted for films quintessential to these time periods in Pretty in Pink and Clueless. Hoping to draw in crowds both nostalgic about their own upbringing in these decades and new audiences drawn in by the timeless teenage dramas and the iconic music and fashion of those time periods, encouraging people to come along dressed up and lose themselves in these classic films.
Another group wanted to incorporate their love of literature with the cinema, bringing famous literature from page to screen. Being keen to provide an option over the weekend for all ages, they have opted to screen Paddington 2, the family favourite for children of all generations. They will be hosting a Paddington inspired scavenger hunt with their screening and encourage audiences of all ages to bring along their teddy bears to snuggle up with during the film. Alongside this they will be screening Life of Pi, believing the beautiful visuals will have audiences swept away into story.
Our final group look to pay homage to some of Britain’s most beloved music icons with two critically revered documentaries. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Definitely, Maybe the seminal debut album of britpop royalty Oasis with a screening of Supersonic and looking at the beloved career and untimely death of singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse with Amy. These are essential viewing for fans of these artists and the group hopes a passion for music will unite audiences.
The biggest challenge has been to narrow down what films to bring to the big screen, the possibilities are endless. The Young Programmers team hope that this is a great opportunity for young people to work within Storyhouse, hoping to curate more cinema events and screenings down the line. We hope everyone will enjoy this takeover event, tickets are on sale now.
You can book tickets for any of these one-off film screenings here.