Over the last few days we held our silent film weekend, which was a complete joy. Four very wonderful films from the 1920s were served up, three with live music, and all received audience scores over 90, which means that half of our top ten-rated films this season to date are silents.

Unfortunately, I think the snow deterred a few people on the Saturday night and Sunday, though the cold weather and partially broken heating in the village hall was rather fitting for the Saturday matinee screening of The Great White Silence. Nevertheless, we all marvelled at the films and the most wonderful music. Terry Davies on piano is always extremely sensitive to the mood of the film, but this weekend he demonstrated that repeatedly, and for a variety of different genres. Most impressive of all was the music that he and Anna Cooper (violin/viola) performed for The Passion of Joan of Arc, a difficult film music-wise, since so little happens, and so slowly.

Various members of the committee provided introductions to the films, giving context about the films, and also their subject matter. Thanks also to the wonderful group of volunteers who provided cakes and refreshments. It was one of the most magical film weekends I’ve ever been to.