I love London. There's something about that place that just inspires me to want to do more with my life. So, I was incredibly pleased when three films from my university, Bangor, were selected by the Screentest Festival in London! Arriving on the first day, it was great to see my class mates again from the Masters! I'd missed them all a lot! The apartment we hired was lovely too, very swish. Arriving at the Festival, we went to a talk with Olivier Kaempfer, who gave us all an insightful talk on funding for films, as well informing us of some of the schemes that are available. Make sure to check out Microwave, if you have a feature film idea! The following morning, we head off early to look at Camden Market. Whilst there, I made a mental note to come back when I had more money, so I could actually take up some of the vendors on their 'One time offer, just for you' deals they were trying to convince me of. We also had breakfast at The Diner, where Amy Winehouse used to work! Gotta have that Eggs Benedict! Soon after that, we went back to Screentest, where we met up with Ali, Charlotte and also Mikey. First up was the comedy section, where Lindsays short film Solitaire had been selected to screen, which I starred in! Nails were bitten, but the film was well received! Mat invited Myself and Lindsay on the stage with him to accept the award, thanking us, as well as the Producer, Mikey. Thanks a lot, Mat! :) As was regulation for a win, we soon found ourselves in the Duke of York pub across the way, for a wee celebration. Wine was imbibed, jokes were told and we were all very much contented in our night. Sadly, as with most good things, it had to come to an end. The next morning, we head off to Leicester Square for a bit of sightseeing. We went to Hamleys and shot some Nerf, ate at Pizza Pilgrims and had one last look at Camden. After that, we ventured forth to watch the Science Fiction/Fantasy Films! Mat Owens short film Turn On, which I helped out with on set, had been selected for an award! Shortly after, we were pretty hungry, so we met up with Ali and Charlotte and had a look along the Southbank. We stopped off at the BFI for a little walk around (I bought a postcard) , took some snaps then had some food in Giraffe. Handy hint: Try the Laid Back Jack cocktail if you end up in Giraffe. They are dangerous drinkable and very refreshing! However, soon after that, the cocktails went to our heads a little, so we headed back to the flat for a sleep, ready for day two. Next to screen was Ali's film, Nostalgia for the Deep, an experimental short that I did some cinematography for. Again, it was very a strong addition to the reel, which had some wonderful films, and some very odd films indeed. Definitely what I expected from an albeit rather lengthy experimental section! After the screenings, we headed back to the apartment to freshen up a bit, and then set back off on the tube to the awards ceremony. We grabbed our wine, sat down and awaited with bated breath to hear if Turn On had won. AND IT DID WIN! We were the crowd that shouted 'Whey!'. After missing my train due to a closed tube station, and sorting out a new ticket home, I finally boarded my train. Screentest was great fun, with some brilliant talent being showcased and some great talks with wonderful insight. I'll definitely be entering my films next year! Whilst on the way home, I couldn't help but think how much I'll miss seeing my friends again. All the jokes, the great company and discussions we have. We're not only great filmmakers in our own right, but we work well as a team, and collaboration is key. Until next time! |
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