First BBC Norfolk Film Festival

British Beach Hut Miscellany by Giles Perkins looks at Norfolk's beach huts

The first BBC Norfolk Film Festival is taking place from Monday, 12 until Saturday, 24 October, 2009.

Entries have been received from all over Norfolk for the inaugural festival, which has a theme of people, places and everyday life.

"We hoped to unearth some of the hidden film makers of Norfolk - and that's just what has happened," said Gary Standley, BBC Voices producer.

The films can be seen at Fusion in The Forum, Norwich, free of charge.

Professional film makers will be rubbing shoulders with amateurs, some of whom are showcasing their first ever attempts.

All the films will be shown on the giant screen in Fusion and it is expected that thousands of visitors will attend during the two-week festival.

Pleasing response

Sue White's entry into the festival is titled Breath of Life (video contains no sound)

"We're really pleased with the response," said Gary.

"There are so many people making films now and of course when you make a film, you want people to see it. The festival gives people that opportunity," he added.

The theme of the festival allowed people to let their imaginations run wild, which resulted in a broad range of films being submitted.

"We have had documentaries, histories, films from teenagers, films from people of all ages," said Gary.

"Hellesdon High School has been working with the Bridewell Museum in Norwich to make a film about Caley's Chocolate.

"Rob Whitworth has sent in a series of amazing time lapse films that show everything from beach scenes to light passing across a chair on a balcony. It may sound unusual, but it looks beautiful!"

The festival includes films of varying lengths, so whether you have just a few minutes to spare, or want to sit for a couple of hours, there will be plenty to watch.

Inspiration

BBC Voices has already set a date for next year and hope that visitors this time around will be inspired to go away and make their own entries for 2010.

"We offer free film training sessions at BBC Voices," said Gary.

Rob Whitworth's Little People and Vallico Sopera Cloud (video contains no sound)

"We know how enthusiastic people become once they have picked up the basics. Many of the people who have made films for BBC Voices in the last few years are showing their films in the Festival," he added.

The film making courses are open to everyone. Even if you are a complete novice you'll be able to enjoy them.

"You don't need any experience or any equipment," said Gary.

"If you think you would like to make a film, get in touch and we can help," he added.

The BBC Norfolk Film Festival runs from Monday, 12 to Saturday, 24 October, 2009.

The films can be seen free of charge on in Fusion at The Forum, Norwich.

If you would like to find out more about film making courses, e-mail BBC Voices.