Film Agency News
31 st January 2012
Silence is Golden
Chapter announces a celebration of silent film with blockbuster films and filmmaking workshops for all the family.
Cardiff’s most popular arts centre has announced a season of events that will celebrate the world of silent film.
Inspired by the release of Golden Globe winner The Artist, starring award winning actor Jean Dujardin, the exciting line-up includes a mix of films, including a live score and filmmaking sessions for all the family. The programme begins with the screening of The Artist on Friday 3 February which will run until Thursday 23 February.
A special children’s filmmaking workshop will take place during half term on Weds 15th February from 10.30am-3.30pm. The workshop will be run by Tom Betts and will give children the opportunity to make their own short, silent film.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for children to understand the language of silent film and gives them a chance to plan, shoot and edit their own short, silent film. What a great way to spend half-term,” explains Sally Griffith, Head of Cinema at Chapter.
“With the ongoing support of the Film Agency for Wales, this programme of events has been carefully selected to celebrate the world of silent film. What better time to show the great classics and educate the next generation on the power of cinema when The Artist has achieved such remarkable success.”
Other audience members have the opportunity to learn more about silent film and discuss content with other film enthusiasts on a special programme led by Daryl Perrins, University of Glamorgan’s senior lecturer in film studies. The ‘Silence is Golden’ film course will take place every Tuesday evening in February. Two special events with live music will be held on Sunday 12 and Tuesday 14 February as Steepways Sound perform a live accompaniment to one of the great silent movies, The Unknown, using acoustic instrumentation and processed audio. Along with a live re-score of Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors, on Thursday 8th March at 6.15, by New Mexico’s folk duo Hawk and Hacksaw accordionist/drummer Jeremy Barnes and violinist Heather Trost. Further screenings of silent movies include the classic 1928 Buster Keaton film The Cameraman on Saturday 11 February. The French animated film A Monster in Paris will then run throughout half-term week.
Emma Flatley, Head of Education and Exhibition at the Film Agency for Wales adds: “ Film is recognised as a wonderful way to spark the imaginations of young people and broaden their horizon.”
“That’s why we are working so hard with venues like Chapter to broaden access to film. We work with and support film exhibitors in Wales, encouraging and supporting specialist film, programmes and film festival activity just like this season of silent film at Chapter. That’s what is needed if we are to build audiences in Wales and we are looking forward to these special events.”
Please contact the box office on 029 2030 4400 for more details or visit www.chapter.org
