Flatpack unveils programme for eleventh edition

World-acclaimed film festival returns for 2017.

Birmingham’s world renowned Flatpack Film Festival returns from 4th-9th April 2017. Famed for its diverse and eclectic programme, the second city’s largest and most adventurous film festival prides itself on creating unique and memorable experiences for audiences of all ages. Now in its 11th year, Flatpack attracts over 14,000 attendees annually and will screen over 200 films across the 6 days. The festival’s boundary-defying cinematic fun and games will span Birmingham’s city centre, with a focus on the Southside district this year.

The festival will open in spectacular style with a launch in famous Birmingham hotel, The Grand. Closed to the public for many years, The Grand’s historic ballroom (which is about to undergo an extensive refurbishment) will return to life for one night only and showcase mesmerising short films from the pioneering filmmaker Segundo de Chomón with a live score by Stephen Horne. The event will also pay homage to some of The Grand’s most illustrious guests including Charlie Chaplin and Winston Churchill.

In early 2016 Flatpack established Flatpack: Assemble, a year-round partnership with the BFI to help build a more thriving, connected film community and pilot new activity across the West Midlands. At this year’s festival the Flatpack: Assemble team will launch Film Camp, a day of panels, talks and workshops exploring the future of film.

Also returning to the festival is MyFlatpack, a 2-day workshop which offers young film and media enthusiasts (aged 16-24) the chance to expand their film horizons and pick up practical skills from leading industry professionals.

Tickets for select highlight events will be on sale from 10th February, with the full programme announced and festival passes on sale from early March at www.flatpackfestival.org.uk