Romford Film Festival Set To Return And Promises An Even Richer Cinematic Experience For Film Goers.

The Romford Film Festival is thrilled to announce its return for a ninth consecutive year, promising an even richer cinematic experience for film enthusiasts.

From 22nd to 27 May, the festival will transform Romford into a hub for independent cinema, showcasing a diverse and captivating collection of films from around the globe. This year’s event will unfold across three screens at the new Lumiere Cinema, conveniently located on the 3rd floor of the Mercury Shopping Centre.

With a staggering 176 features and short films scheduled for screening, attendees can expect a truly immersive experience. The programme spans the full array of genres, catering to every taste. From side-splitting comedies and thought-provoking documentaries, to pulse-pounding horror flicks and captivating musical narratives; the festival promises something for everyone.

One of the most anticipated events of the festival is the World Premiere of ‘In the Grip of Terror’, marking the triumphant return of Amicus Productions after a long hiatus since their last film in 1977. This chilling anthology film, a hallmark of Amicus’s legacy, is set to send shivers down spines on Saturday 24th May, at 8pm. Director Lawrie Brewster and stars Megan Tremethick and Jane Merrow will be in attendance alongside Sergei Subotsky, son of the legendary American filmmaker Milton Subotsky (the co-founder of Amicus in 1962), offering audiences a chance to connect with the creative minds behind this spine-tingling cinematic experience. Amicus were the second biggest British film studio during the 1960s and 70s to specialise in horror,although they often deviated into sci-fi and monster movies like ‘The People That Time Forgot’ and taking Doctor Who from the small to Big Screen when actor Peter Cushing played the Time Lord.

The festival also sees the directorial feature debut of actor Joseph Milson, in the form of ‘Signs of Life’. Starring Sarah-Jane Potts, Sharon Duce and Moon Knight star David Gandy. Milson, a familiar face at the Romford Film Festival, has previously garnered awards for his work behind the camera in short films, and his venture into long form cinema promises to be a compelling addition to the festival’s lineup. As an actor Milson is best known for his leading turns in ITV’s ‘Peak Practise’ and BBC’s ‘Holby City’ before moving to the big screen where he starred in ‘Casino Royale’, ‘I Give it a Year’and more recently ‘The Amateur’ which is still playing in cinemas.

Other eagerly anticipated titles include ‘Stampila’ which tells the gripping tale of a small country’s struggle against an unelected dictator, while ‘The Chocolate Club’ offers a heartwarming romantic comedy set against the picturesque backdrop of Cornwall. ‘Home Free’ delves into the complexities of family dynamics as an elderly couple and their daughters grapple with a life-altering diagnosis.

Japanese director Kenichi Ugana, a Romford Film Festival favourite, returns with ‘The Gesuidouz’, a unique and visually striking story cantered around a horror-themed rock band. His previous works have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following, and “The Gesuidouz” is poised to be another standout contribution to the festival, having sold out midnight performances at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival.

Adding to the festival’s rich tapestry of talent, 90-year-old filmmaker Michael Slowe, a previous award winner at the festival, will present two new documentaries showcasing his enduring passion for storytelling and his ability to capture the beauty and intrigue of tropical isles.

The Romford Film Festival is also committed to showcasing local talent, with a strong representation of filmmakers from Romford and its surrounding areas. Films such as ‘Forest 779’, ‘Secret Service Teens’, ‘Mold: The Silent Decay of Sexless Marriages’, and ‘Canned Laughter’ highlight the creative energy and diverse perspectives within the local filmmaking community. Films from neighbouring towns like Southend and Brentwood will also be featured, further enriching the festival’s regional flavour.

With over 100 films receiving their UK or World Premieres at the festival, attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness cinematic history in the making. The festival’s home, the Lumiere Cinema, holds a special place in the hearts of the community, having been saved from closure through a successful crowdfunder. This year’s festival is testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its cultural landmarks and supporting the arts.

Approximately 120 of the movies in the lineup will be represented by their filmmakers and stars, providing audiences with invaluable insights into the creative process. The popular live Q&A sessions following each screening offer a chance to engage directly with the talent behind the films, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking.

The festival prides itself on its commitment to independent filmmaking and is a proud member of the Association of Independent Film Festivals (AIFF). This membership underscores the Romford Film Festival’s dedication to transparency and fairness for filmmakers, ensuring a supportive and ethical environment for cinematic talent.

This year the festival also continues its special collaboration with the Eurasian Creative Guild Film Festival (ECG Film Festival). This partnership brings a unique selection of films from Central Asia to Romford, offering audiences a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse cinematic landscape of the region. This collaboration highlights the festival’s commitment to fostering international connections and showcasing films that might not otherwise reach UK audiences.

The Romford Film Festival kicks off on Thursday 22nd May at 7pm, setting the stage for six days of cinematic immersion. The opening night will feature a selection of comedy filmsacross 3 screens, including ‘Harvey Greenfield Is RunningLate’, ‘Fortune Cookies’, and ‘Just Like Me’, promising an evening full of laughter and entertainment.

Full information about the lineup and tickets for the festival are now available for purchaseat www.romfordfilmfestival.com. With prices starting at just £6.99 per session, £15 for a day pass, and £40 for a full festival pass; the festival offers accessible options for all film lovers. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of independent cinema and celebrate the art of storytelling at the Romford Film Festival and Lumiere Romford.

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