Three
years ago when we launched our first programme, BLACK SCREEN FILM
& VIDEO was a small festival that set out to make a big impact.
We knew that there was a screaming desire to champion the new talent
amongst you, and to showcase culturally diverse independent films to a
wider audience, but we didn't realise just how fulfilling it would be
for us, and clearly for you.
This year we're back, bigger and better as they say, to celebrate and
talk about the varied world of video and film-making. On offer this year
are the Script to Screen Bursary Awards and we welcome prominent women
in the industry to talk about, rail against and applaud life in the "Directors
Chair". Our international screenings include the Best of Black Hollywood,
World Shorts, and, if you've not yet seen 'Blackboards' by Iranian director
Samira Makhamalbaf, come and see it here! Reviews of this winner at Cannes
have been sensational: variously described as "astonishing", and "a masterly
allegorical road movie".
We'd like to thank our many sponsors who have continued to support Black
Screen from year one, showing unerring good judgement, and welcome those
new this year. Very special thanks must go to the volunteers without whom
the festival would not really happen. We hope you enjoy and can take full
advantage of the workshops, and screenings throughout the week. Finally,
a big "Thank you" to all our panel members and experts.
FESTIVAL DIRECTOR - Bea Freeman
FESTIVAL TEAM - Cerith Hynam, Vanessa Kirkpatrick, Ruth
Nichols, Monika Baker, Janet Brandon, Diane Bailey, Sarah Hughes, Vici
Ladeji, E-Mello, Mike McArdle.
