The Cinemagic International Film and Television Festival for Young People has launched the 35th year of its dynamic array of animation and directing masterclasses and screenings.
Starting on September 28, more than 120 events will take place around Belfast. These will be hosted by prominent experts in the industry – including the directors of Baltimore, Lies We Tell, and Aftersun.
Aspiring filmmakers can create animation puppets and attend events honing skills in Film Music Supervision and Visual Effects.
A DreamWorks animation based on Peter Brown’s famous novel The Wild Robot will be screened on October 14 ahead of its release in Ireland and the UK. Its preview at the Toronto International Film Festival was highly acclaimed.
Cinemagic is also encouraging young critics to review films ahead of the Young Filmmaker Showcase which celebrates the talents of over 150 young people.
Cinemagic CEO Joan Burney Keatings urged young people to get involved throughout the festival embracing “the wonder of cinema” and its ability to “celebrate cultural diversity”.
“Cinemagic can inspire and educate young people, nurture skills, and develop tomorrow’s creatives.”
Another standout performance will be an interactive musical and actor Q&A by Yukee Live! – based on the new animated CBeebies series which is set in Northern Ireland and whose star is Nina He from Newtownbutler.
As part of the festival, a series of screenings will be held in collaboration with South Belfast Foodbank. Over the years, 10,000 meals have been provided as audience members donate food items to the charity.
Richard Williams, CEO at Northern Ireland Screen, who deliver core funding to the project, said it was “delighted to support another varied and diverse programme”.
“We acknowledge what a contribution the festival plays in film culture, education, and training for young people across Northern Ireland,” he said.
You can book classes and events at Cinemagic.org.uk.
