PRESS RELEASES
LONDON, 19th August 2024
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL SELECTION
London, UK – August 19, 2024 – The London Rolling Film Festival is delighted to announce its official selection for the 2024 event. This year’s festival will take place at VUE Piccadilly on the 27th and 28th of September, presenting a diverse range of films that showcase unique voices and creative visions from around the world.
With submissions from 28 countries and a remarkable 325% increase from last year, the selection reflects the festival’s growing global reach. The films, chosen for their exceptional quality and storytelling, represent the very best in independent filmmaking.
The festival will open with The Chocolate Club, a feature film by Deborah Hadfield, setting the tone for an inspiring two-day event. Continuing the tradition of fostering new talent, the Pitch Corner will offer filmmakers a platform to present their ideas to an audience and a panel of industry experts. The winner of the £1000 Help to Roll Fund will also be announced during the Award Ceremony on September 28th.
Festival Director Alida Pantone expressed her excitement, stating, “I am thrilled to see a significant increase in female filmmakers in competition this year, with 11 out of 15 selected films directed by women. It’s inspiring to witness such strong female representation in the industry, and I believe their unique perspectives will resonate with audiences”.
The festival will feature 13 Awards, judged by a distinguished panel of industry professionals. Among them is the Kimberley Marren Recognition Award, sponsored by The Fan Carpet, honouring unsung talents in the industry.
As is tradition, the audience will also vote for their favorite film, adding an exciting participatory element to the event.
For the very first time the London Rolling Film festival will open with a Feature Film:
Feature Film “The Chocolate Club” + Q&A with Director Deborah Hadfield (Friday 27th September 2024 – VUE Piccadilly).
The short films official selection, competing for a cash prize of £500, has been chosen wisely to provide both filmmakers and the audience with a high-quality and interesting selection. Each film offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective.
The selected short films, showing on Saturday 28th September at VUE Piccadilly, are:
“Echo” by Jo Southwell
“Wuss” by Nadine Wilson
“Unravel” by Maxime Bonett, Yorgo Glynatsis
“Trigger” by Renzo Vasquez
“Enamour’ by Doulla Panaretou
“My Husband Is A Dog” by Sara Jordan
“Meeting Mr. Oscar” by Toni Short
“Marvin The Vampire” by Adrian Ramirez León
“(w)hole” by Natasha Redmond
“Good Luck Nelle” by Carissa Thorne
“The Sands of Time” by James Hughes
“Unique Together” by Lena Kadriye Ziyal
“Forbidden” by Charlotte Vacková
“Pretty Bonnets” by Mick Dow
All filmmakers are required to be present for their films to be shown—one of the festival’s unique rules designed to encourage meaningful connections between creators and the audience.
Attendees can look forward to screenings, engaging discussions, networking, red carpet photo opportunities, and interviews with filmmakers.
Tickets are available through FilmFreeway, and we encourage attendees to purchase them in advance.
LONDON, 18th August 2024
JOANNE MITCHELL JOINS JURY FOR LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL 2024
London, UK – August 18, 2024 – We are excited to announce that renowned actor, writer, producer, and director Joanne Mitchell will be joining the Jury for the London Rolling Film Festival 2024.
With an impressive career that began at The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Joanne has become a dynamic force in the entertainment industry, particularly within the Horror/Thriller genre.
Joanne’s talents extend beyond acting into producing and writing, with five feature films—Bait, Before Dawn, Wolf Manor, Evie, and Attack of the Adult Babies—garnering worldwide distribution across platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and iTunes. Recently, she has also ventured into directing, with two short films, Sybil and The Outing, earning acclaim on the international festival circuit.
Joanne’s directorial feature debut, Broken Bird, marks a new chapter in her creative journey, and she’s thrilled to bring her experience to the London Rolling Film Festival Jury. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to network with Joanne during the Festival.
LONDON, 3rd August 2024
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL 2024: EXPANDED HORIZONS AND NEW HIGHLIGHTS
London, UK – August 3, 2024 – The London Rolling Film Festival (LRFF) is set to return for its 14th edition at the VUE Cinema Piccadilly on the 27th and 28th of September, 2024. This year, the festival has doubled both the number of days and films shown, highlighting its significant growth and expanding influence in the film industry (325% increase in submissions from last year).
We are pleased to announce Palm Tree Universal as the main sponsor for this year’s festival. Palm Tree Universal’s support is integral to making this year’s festival truly memorable. “We’re absolutely thrilled to have Palm Tree Universal as our main sponsor”, said Alida Pantone, founder of the London Rolling Film Festival.
Opening the festival will be the feature film “The Chocolate Club” by Deborah Hadfield on Friday, September 27th.
This year’s highlight is a panel discussion led by renowned filmmaker Robbie Moffat. Joining our host Rachele Fregonese, Moffat will provide insights into the processes behind filmmaking and the journey from concept to screen. The discussion will also cover film distribution and TV production on a global scale. The panel will be followed by a Q&A session.
Continuing the tradition of fostering new talent, Mike Smith will run the popular Pitch Corner, where aspiring filmmakers can present their project ideas and receive valuable feedback. LRFF is proud to facilitate connections between filmmakers and investors to create new projects, and this year will be no different.
The winner of the Help to Roll Fund, who will receive a £1000 grant, will be announced at the Award Ceremony on the evening of September 28th. Throughout the year, participants submitted pitches via FilmFreeway, and finalists have been selected to present their ideas in front of an audience and a panel of industry experts at the festival.
The London Rolling Film Festival will feature 13 awards judged by a distinguished panel of industry professionals. This year’s jury includes Paul McEvoy (FrightFest), Rachael Sutherland (Palm Tree Universal) and President of the Jury Amanny Mohamed (Sky, BBC).
Among the awards is the “Kimberley Marren Recognition Award”, sponsored by The Fan Carpet. This award honours the memory of the beloved actress and model, celebrating those in the industry who work tirelessly behind the scenes and often do not receive the recognition they deserve.
The Official Selection of short films will be announced soon, showcasing a carefully curated lineup that promises to engage and inspire audiences with unique and thought-provoking perspectives.
Hosted at the VUE Cinema Piccadilly, attendees can expect two days filled with screenings, discussions, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony honouring outstanding contributions to the world of filmmaking.
For more information about the London Rolling Film Festival, including ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the complete lineup, please visit: www.rollingfilmfestival.com.
About Palm Tree Universal
Palm Tree Universal is a renowned British sales agent and distributor for film and television clients, based in Iver, Buckinghamshire. With representation in the United States, their titles are licensed by major platforms including Tubi, Amazon, Roku Channel, and Apple TV. Since 1989, Palm Tree Universal has been creating cinematic landscapes, producing over 30 feature films.
About the London Rolling Film Festival
Born as a fusion of film screenings and industry networking, LRFF has consistently achieved a 5-star rating on FilmFreeway. Its unique commitment to filmmaker presence distinguishes it in the cinematic landscape. With its carefully curated selection, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities, the festival serves as a platform for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, enthusiasts, and a diverse audience in the heart of London.
About the Jury panel
Amanny Mohamed (president of the Jury) – Amanny is a seasoned TV Producer/Director, Presenter and Broadcaster with a rich background in indie and world cinema. She has produced prime-time film shows for Sky, and was the Senior Producer for UK-exclusive broadcast productions centred around the Oscars and Golden Globes ceremonies. As a film critic, she is a regular contributor on BBC radio and previously presented a popular arts and entertainment show on BBC Local stations. Amanny currently hosts the podcast “Art to Art with Amanny Mo,” featuring interviews with talent across the arts. She is passionate about supporting undiscovered talent and independent filmmaking.
Paul McEvoy – Paul is the founder and co-director of FrightFest, the UK’s largest genre film festival. Showcasing a wide range of fantasy, horror, thriller and science fiction films. Paul has hosted numerous film-related special events worldwide, including Q&A sessions with Elijah Wood, James Wan, Leigh Whannell, Jessica Alba and many more. Paul also worked in-house at the AMC Horror Channel for both the UK and Italy.
Rachael Sutherland – Rachael had her first introduction to the film industry in 1998 as a child actress in Love the One You’re With. She then went on to work on various productions including starring in the Trilogy: Winter Warrior, Bone Hunter and Axe Raiders as Ethne. As well as other roles in Finding Fortune, Red Rose and Rain Dogs. After completing a two year performance Course, she got behind the camera as a production assistant. She is now Producer at Palm Tree Universal.
LONDON, 2nd August 2024
14th EDITION OF LNDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL MARKS MAJOR EXPANSION
London, UK – August 2, 2024 – The 14th edition of the London Rolling Film Festival (LRFF) will take place at the prestigious VUE Cinema Piccadilly on the 27th and 28th of September, 2024. This year, the festival doubles both the number of days and films shown compared to previous years.
The LRFF provides independent filmmakers from around the globe the exceptional opportunity to screen their work at VUE Cinema Piccadilly, right in the heart of London. This year, the festival has attracted submissions from 28 countries, highlighting the festival’s growing international appeal. This year’s submissions include filmmakers from the United Kingdom, Iran, the United States, Italy, France, Poland, India, Sweden, Peru, Ireland, Germany, Cyprus, Ukraine, Switzerland, Slovenia, Portugal, the Netherlands, Mexico, Iraq, Estonia, Denmark, the Czech Republic, China, Canada, Belgium, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. With an astonishing 325% increase in submissions from last year, the festival’s reach and popularity have skyrocketed.
Despite the mandatory presence rule, filmmakers from far and wide, including Texas and India last year, have flocked to London for this prestigious event.
Opening the festival will be the feature film “The Chocolate Club” by Deborah Hadfield, on Friday, September 27th. Additionally, this year will continue the tradition of the popular Pitch Corner, where aspiring filmmakers can present their project ideas.
We are excited to announce that the beneficiary of the Help to Roll Fund will be revealed at the Award Ceremony. This initiative provides up to £1000 to launch an outstanding film project.
This year’s highlight at the London Rolling Film Festival is a captivating panel discussion led by renowned filmmaker Robbie Moffat. Joining our host Rachele Fregonese, Moffat will provide insights into the intricate processes behind filmmaking and the journey from concept to screen. The discussion will also cover the dynamic world of film distribution and TV production on a global scale. This is a unique opportunity to hear from a multifaceted industry expert about the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. The panel will be followed by a Q&A session.
The London Rolling Film Festival will feature 13 awards judged by a panel of industry professionals with expertise in various aspects of filmmaking. Among the awards is the “Kimberley Marren Recognition Award,” sponsored by The Fan Carpet. This award honours the memory of the beloved actress and model, celebrating those in the industry who work tirelessly behind the scenes and often do not receive the recognition they deserve.
Hosted at the prestigious VUE cinema Piccadilly, attendees can expect an unforgettable two days filled with screenings, discussions, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony honouring outstanding contributions to the world of filmmaking.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Palm Tree Universal for their invaluable support, which has made this year’s London Rolling Film Festival possible.
LONDON, 1st August 2024
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES MAIN SPONSO: PALM TREE UNIVERSAL
London, UK – August 1, 2024 – The London Rolling Film Festival (LRFF) is proud to announce Palm Tree Universal as the main sponsor for its 14th edition. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the festival, highlighting its commitment to connecting, inspiring, and supporting independent filmmakers from around the globe.
About Palm Tree:
Palm Tree International: Sales Renowned British sales agent and distributor for film and television clients, based in Iver, Buckinghamshire. With representation in the United States, their titles are licensed by major platforms including Tubi, Amazon, Roku Channel, and Apple TV. The company boasts an experienced sales team and exceptional technical support, ensuring that clients’ products are delivered safely and on time once sales agreements are in place.
Palm Tree Universal: Film Production: Since 1989, Palm Tree Universal has been creating cinematic landscapes, producing over 30 feature films. For more information on their production services, please contact Palm Tree Universal directly.
Palm Tree Publishing: Established in 1980, Palm Tree Publishing has a rich history of publishing a diverse collection of novels, screenplays, and poems. Their books are available on Amazon and in selected bookstores. For more details, visit the publishing page on their website.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Palm Tree Universal as our main sponsor”, said Alida Pantone, founder of the London Rolling Film Festival. “Their support aligns perfectly with our mission to nurture and promote independent filmmaking talent. Together, we’re set to make this year’s festival truly unforgettable.”
LONDON, 15th August 2023
EMERGING TALENTS TRIUMPH: LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL 2023 UNVEILS AWARD RECIPIENTS
The 13th edition of the London Rolling Film Festival (LRFF) wrapped up celebrating an impressive 12% surge in participation.
Nestled within the iconic halls of VUE Cinema Piccadilly, the festival drew a diverse array of filmmakers from both the UK and international locales, including India, Kurdistan, Texas, and Italy. This eclectic convergence demonstrated the festival’s ability to transcend borders, becoming a vibrant melting pot of global cinematic expression.
An unparalleled global mandate ensures every screened film is presented by its filmmaker, highlighting the festival’s commitment to fostering industry networking.
Award Winners:
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Best Short Film (Jury Award): “Stay Behind” by Federica Schiavello
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Best Short Film (Audience Award): “Speaker” by Alan Hamwan
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Best Director: Alan Hamwan for “Speaker”
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Best Performance: Lottie Bell for “Night Moves”
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Best Music Score: Dan Light for “The Cocoon”
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Best Screenplay: David Shen Miller for “The Cocoon”
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Best Cinematography: Paolo Bischi for “Stay Behind”
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Best Production Design: Rosi Stamp for “Sonar”
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Best Makeup and Hairstyling: Addy Frame for “Sonar”
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Best Costume Design: Vicky Turner for “Stay Behind”
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Best Casting: Ilenka Jelowicki and Maddy Hinton for “A Mind Full”
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Kimberley Marren Recognition Award: Sarah Leigh (Inclusivity Films) in recognition of her
exceptional achievements in inclusivity in the film industry.
Mike Smith, documentary producer for notable channels including BBC and Channel 4, and executive producer of BBC2’s recent “David Harewood on Blackface”, shared pivotal guidance with emerging filmmakers at the festival’s Pitch Corner sessions.
Tom Paton, with nine feature films to his name and a focus on integrating Artificial Intelligence in film, discussed the ethical dynamics of AI in filmmaking, echoing his belief: “If you’re chasing the bandwagon, then you’ve already missed it.”
Festival Director Alida Pantone expressed profound pride in the festival’s growing influence, emphasizing how it has evolved into a dynamic hub for emerging cinematic voices. “The global footprint of our festival reflects the transcendent power of storytelling, uniting artists and audiences across continents,” Pantone remarked.
Stay updated:
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Website: www.rollingfilmfestival.com
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FilmFreeway: LondonRollingFilmFestival
About the London Rolling Film Festival:
Born as a fusion of film screenings and industry networking, LRFF has consistently achieved a 5- star rating on Festival Freeway. Its unique commitment to filmmaker presence distinguishes it in the cinematic landscape.
London, UK – 28 July 2023
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL SHEDS LIGHT ON POWERFUL SOCIAL ISSUES AND INTRICATE HUMAN DRAMA EXPLORED IN SELECTED FILMS
The London Rolling Film Festival proudly presents its official selection of short films, each offering thought-provoking insights into a wide range of social issues and captivating human experiences. With a diverse lineup of exceptional films, this year’s festival promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of life, relationships, and our connection with nature.
Get ready to embark on an emotional rollercoaster with these riveting films:
1. “A Dose of Nature” by Chiara Brambilla: When traditional medicine fails, nature holds the key to healing chronic pain. Join us on a soul-stirring journey of resilience and the unbreakable bond between humans and the natural world.
2. “A Mind Full” by Steve Whiteley: Mindfulness can bring inner peace, but when anger takes the wheel, it’s a whole new struggle. Explore the transformative power of mindfulness and the battle with inner demons in this gripping tale.
3. “Aborted” by Lee Bamsey: In a world with a global pregnancy ban, one brave couple defies all odds to protect their unborn child. Brace yourself for a heart-pounding story of fear, courage, and the fight for life.
4. “Playtime” by Jasper Shah: Regrets and the road not taken – we’ve all been there. Follow Jack’s quest for answers as he rediscovers a lost passion and grapples with the choices that shape our destinies.
5. “SONAR” by James Hughes: Late-night mysteries unfold when a swimmer stumbles upon an unusual sound. Dive into the unknown with this thrilling exploration of curiosity and discovery.
6. “Stay Behind” by Federica Schiavello: Unravel the secrets of Italy’s clandestine paramilitary operation during the 1980s. This gripping true story delves into politics, crime, and a hidden side of history.
7. “The Cocoon” by David Shen Miller: Perfectionism can be a trap, and beauty lies in imperfection. Join us on an awe-inspiring journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of true authenticity.
8. “Speaker” by Alan Hamwan: Witness an act of bravery as a disabled grocer steps up to protect a girl in danger. This heartwarming tale showcases the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
9. “Night Moves” by Jamie Culter: Love, departure, and the complexities of relationships – explore the tender moments shared between two souls as they navigate life’s inevitable changes.
This year London Rolling Film Festival is dedicated to promoting films that shed light on pressing social issues, human relationships, and our intricate connection with nature. Through the lens of talented filmmakers, these selected films offer a powerful cinematic experience that will leave audiences reflecting on the multifaceted nature of the human experience.
Alida Pantone, Festival Director, expresses her excitement: “This year’s film selection is a testament to the power of storytelling. These films touch on the most profound aspects of human existence, taking us on a journey that will linger in our hearts and minds long after the credits roll.”
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary cinematic journey at the London Rolling Film Festival, taking place on Sunday, August 13th, 2023, at the prestigious VUE cinema Piccadilly in London. Secure your tickets now through FilmFreeway to immerse yourself in the world of thought-provoking storytelling.
For more information about the London Rolling Film Festival, including ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the complete lineup, please visit the official festival website: www.rollingfilmfestival.com
About the London Rolling Film Festival:
The London Rolling Film Festival is an annual event dedicated to promoting and celebrating exceptional short films from around the world. With its carefully curated selection, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities, the festival serves as a platform for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, enthusiasts, and a diverse audience in the heart of London.
London, UK – 27 July 2023
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AI AS HOST TOPIC FOR THIS EDITION’S PANEL, LED BY FILMMAKER TOM PATON
The London Rolling Film Festival is excited to reveal that Artificial Intelligence (AI) will take center stage as the host topic for this year’s edition. Renowned filmmaker Tom Paton will lead the panel discussion, delving into the fascinating intersection of AI and filmmaking.
Scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 13th, 2023, at the prestigious VUE cinema Piccadilly in London, this edition of the festival promises to be a groundbreaking exploration of the impact of AI on the film industry.
AI has been increasingly shaping the world of filmmaking, from advanced visual effects and CGI to data-driven analytics for audience engagement and content creation. The London Rolling Film Festival recognizes the importance of discussing these developments and their implications for the future of cinema.
Tom Paton, an acclaimed director and visionary in the industry, will lead the panel in examining how AI technologies are revolutionizing storytelling, production processes, and audience experiences. As an accomplished filmmaker, Tom Paton is well-equipped to shed light on the opportunities and challenges AI presents to filmmakers worldwide.
“We are thrilled to have AI as the host topic for this year’s panel discussion,” said Alida Pantone, Festival Director. “Tom Paton’s expertise and passion for exploring the cutting-edge intersection of AI and filmmaking will undoubtedly make this a captivating and enlightening event for our audience.”
The London Rolling Film Festival continues its commitment to providing a platform for meaningful conversations about the evolving landscape of cinema. The AI-focused panel is set to be a highlight of the festival, sparking dialogue among filmmakers, industry professionals, and AI enthusiasts alike.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this exciting exploration of AI in filmmaking at the London Rolling Film Festival. Secure your tickets now through FilmFreeway to guarantee your place at this exceptional cinematic event.
For more information about the London Rolling Film Festival, including ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the complete lineup, please visit the official festival website: www.rollingfilmfestival.com
About the London Rolling Film Festival:
The London Rolling Film Festival is an annual event dedicated to promoting and celebrating exceptional short films from around the world. With its carefully curated selection, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities, the festival serves as a platform for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, enthusiasts, and a diverse audience in the heart of London.
London, UK – 27 July 2023
LONDON ROLLING FILM FESTIVAL UNVEILS OFFICIAL SELECTION
The London Rolling Film Festival is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated official selection of short films for its upcoming event.
Set to take place on Sunday, August 13th, 2023, at the prestigious VUE cinema Piccadilly in London, this festival promises a captivating celebration of cinematic talent.
The short films official selection, competing for a cash price of £500, includes a diverse range of compelling films, each offering a unique and thought-provoking perspective. The selected films are:
- “Sonar” by James Hughes
- “Speaker” by Alan Hamwan
- “The Cocoon” by David Shen Miller
- “Playtime” by Jasper Shah
- “Stay Behind” by Federica Schiavello
- “Aborted” by Lee Bamsey
- “Night Moves” by Jamie Cutler
- “A Dose Of Nature” by Chiara Brambilla
- “A Mind Full” by Steve Whiteley
“We are delighted to showcase this incredible lineup of short films at the London Rolling Film Festival”, said Alida Pantone, Festival Director. “These films represent the very best in storytelling, creativity, and filmmaking prowess, and we cannot wait to share them with our audience in London.“
The London Rolling Film Festival will feature 12 awards, including:
- Best Short Film (Jury Award) – Cash Prize £500
- Best Short Film (Audience Award) – Cash price upon audience donations
- Kimberly Marren Recognition Award – Sponsored by The Fan Carpet
- Best Director
- Best Performance
- Best Music Score
- Best Screenplay
- Best Cinematography
- Best Production Design
- Best Make up and Hairstyling
- Best Costume Design
- Best Casting
These awards will be judged by a distinguished panel of industry professionals with expertise in various aspects of filmmaking.
Hosted at the prestigious VUE cinema Piccadilly, attendees can expect an unforgettable day filled with screenings, discussions, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony honoring outstanding contributions to the world of filmmaking.
Tickets for the London Rolling Film Festival are now available for purchase through FilmFreeway. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary cinematic experience.
For more information about the London Rolling Film Festival, including ticket sales, sponsorship opportunities, and the complete lineup, please visit: www.rollingfilmfestival.com
About the London Rolling Film Festival:
The London Rolling Film Festival is an annual event dedicated to promoting and celebrating exceptional short films from around the world. With its carefully curated selection, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities, the festival serves as a platform for filmmakers to connect with industry professionals, enthusiasts, and a diverse audience in the heart of London.
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