Athy’s inaugural Film Festival taking place this week
His & Hers that will screen in the inaugral Athy Film Festival
IT will be a proud moment for the arts community and cinephiles in Athy this weekend, when the local society hold its first-ever Athy Film Festival.
Held over Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings (17-19 January) in the ever-faithful Athy Community College, opening night is on Thursday (16 January) from 7.30pm with “red carpet, prosecco and paparazzi guaranteed!”, according to festival director Claudia Reeves.
Special guest actor Charlie Hughes will launch the event, with live music and entertainment, and a chance to browse the films screened.
“A total of 10 films are being shown throughout the three days, plus two morning sessions of short films,” said Claudia.
“On the Saturday morning the videos shown will be made by kids from Kilcullen, and a Dublin talent agency.
“Films from various countries and covering a variety of genres – from animation, comedy, romance, drama, and two late night classic thrillers (for over 18s only) and , but these two are booking out fast,!” she said.
“Most features are family friendly but parents are advised to check the IMDB Parents’ Guide,” Claudia advised.
“The main idea of the festival is to bring the community together, and we’re hoping that families will attend together, but think about bringing a neighbour or elderly relative who may not have been to the cinema in a while.
“What’s best is that the movies are in town, just on your doorstep, and thanks to the generous contributions of our local sponsors all screenings are free,” she revealed.
“Seats however must be booked in advance to ensure availability, and all event details are on Eventbrite.
“Shops in town will display posters and provide brochures of the festival to the public.
“There is a special screening for teens on Friday at 4.30pm, and special matinee screenings for children over six years old who bring an adult, both Saturday and Sunday at 1.30pm. The gorgeous film by local Laois man Ken Wardrop will be screened on Saturday at 7pm.
“This was the winner of the IFTA Best Feature Documentary in 2010.
“The short film sessions followed by Q & As with the directors both on Saturday and Sunday at 11am will be interesting.
“On the Saturday the short films made by young adults from Kilcullen and Dublin from the MVW Talent Agency will also be followed by Q&A with some of those involved in the project.
“Of these, recently won Best Film for Kids category at the Dublin international Comedy Festival,” Claudia concluded.
There are also two competitions running for both primary and secondary school students – details of these are on the Athy Film Club Instagram and Facebook pages. A tuck shop will be available on site as well as souvenir merchandise!
