Under threatening clouds, the first Inspire Film Festival got under way at the Lichfield Garrick to great acclaim. The festival is showcasing film talent from some of Lichfield’s finest film makers and some from further afield.
Inspire was launched on Friday 3rd by legendary film critic Barry Norman, who praised the skills of Lichfield’s film makers. He expressed his great hope for the future of the British film industry with so much great talent emerging.
The festival continued on Saturday with the premiere of Field of Corpses, a feature film made by South Staffordshire College students and shot entirely in Lichfield. It’s the first feature film to be produced by Foundation Degree students at the college. It’s the story of Lichfield’s past and an ancient bronze cross worn by St. Chad which covers a secret hidden by the church for centuries.
Despite the rain, cast, crew, local dignitaries and members of the public turned out on the red carpet for the première. Arriving in limousines, the stars donned bow ties and glamorous dresses. All looked fabulous as they made their way into the famous Garrick. Amongst these were Lichfield’s Mayor, Terry Thomas and popular comedian Jason Manford, husband to the film’s leading lady, Catherine Manford.
The film was introduced by head of media, Terry Foster. The film hit some technical glitches and afterwards Terry said how ashamed he was that it didn’t go as well as it should have, but Vice-Principal of South Staffordshire College, Mark Robertson said that the film was “absolutely fascinating” and the students “should be very proud of what [they’ve] achieved.”
A great deal of applause, including whoops and cheers was directed at the screen by the audience who clearly enjoyed the production that many of them had been so closely involved with.
Inspire continues over the weekend with the showing of the submissions on Sunday and an awards ceremony to celebrate those entries deemed the best by Inspire’s panel of expert judges, including Barry Norman.
In true Lichfield Blog fashion there’s lots of photos, too! Check them out on Flickr or watch the slideshow below.
