The Sunday afternoon children’s and family films in the village hall at 3 o’clock are a real joy for all concerned.  It is like entering an enthralling, charming and magical world for a few hours, both for the young and the young at heart.  I know it is possible to slot a DVD into a television set and watch almost any film but the experience of going to a local community film is something very special.  Firstly, there’s the pleasure to be gained by watching films with other people and I think that this is far pleasanter in our local village hall than, say, in a multiplex, because it’s probable that we’ll know a great many of the people there and, even if you don’t, it’s more than likely that you will by the end of the afternoon.  Secondly, after the convivial atmosphere and refreshments you can lose yourself completely in another world in front of a huge screen with surround-sound speakers – every bit as good as in a commercial cinema, where you’ll probably pay almost twice as much.  It’s important that we don’t lose this stimulating and enriching facility.  There are quite a few overheads to pay with each film so we do need at least fifty people per film.  And with prices of £4 for children and £4 to £5 for adults it’s great value!

There are four spectacular family films coming up in the New Year which are not to be missed.  On Sunday 6 January we are showing Greyfriars Bobby  – a wonderful story of how a Skye terrier is adopted by a community which includes a group of children and two rather cantankerous though endearing Scottish characters. The film is based on the book by Eleanor Atkinson, which itself was drawn from the true story of a faithful dog in Victorian Edinburgh.  Its innocence is so very touching.  If you’re a dog lover then it’ll warm your heart, and if you want to show your children a sweet film that will show them a bit of history, won’t frighten them, or teach them bad habits then Greyfriars Bobby is just the ticket.

On Sunday 3 February we have Tales of the Night from the director of Kirikou and the Sorceress and Azur and Asmar.  In this captivating animated film, three storytellers meet every night to act out various tales set in forests and cities of gold and populated with sorcerers, fairies and powerful kings. This instant classic is a visual delight for any child and parent. 

Hitchcock’s North by Northwest starring Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint (on Sunday 3 March) is a gripping tale of mistaken identity.  Its tense vigorous action, dry humour and meticulous cinematography will appeal to all, although this one is probably not suitable for the very young.  

Finally, on Sunday 28 April we are showing the classic National Velvet, which will captivate all, especially horse lovers.  Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of a girl who has an ambition to win the Grand National is very convincing and gives a preview of her great acting ability. The family life is quite authentic and the viewer is made to feel that they are actually “dropping-in” on a family discussion. The highlight of the movie is the race itself. In the run-up one can feel the tension Velvet is feeling and we can quite understand her last-minute doubts.

I am certainly looking forward to every one of these delightful films.  For more information please visit www.forestrowfilmsociety.org  If you want to know more, get involved, or get on the mailing list contact us at: kids@forestrowfilmsociety.org

This article first appeared in the January 2013 issue of Forest Row News