A free film festival for families is returning to Beckenham next month after its organisers successfully raised more than £1,000 in just a week.

Free Family Film Fest, run by Bromley-based community organisation Small World Cinema, will take place at Beckenham Place Mansion on September 4.

A programme of international films and short animations suitable for the entire family will be shown throughout the day, alongside a range of activities, including special effects make-up sessions for teens.

This year’s event was made possible by sponsors who contributed to a recent crowdfunding campaign, helping the festival return for a fourth time after missing out last summer due to Covid.

News Shopper: The festival takes place in Beckenham Place ParkThe festival takes place in Beckenham Place Park

Small World Cinema founder Saskia van Roomen said: “We can’t believe the positive response to our festival fundraiser, and we are so grateful for the support of the community and our sponsors.

“It demonstrates that there is a great need for the community to get together.

“After a year of very little creativity and togetherness we can’t wait to get out and share our passion for film with local children and families.

“You can’t beat the magic of cinema for bringing a community together!”

The programme includes animations from Hungary, Portugal, Latvia, Russia, France, curated by London International Animation Festival.

Binti, a Belgian film, follows a 12-year-old who dreams of becoming a famous vlogger until her family face deportation and are forced to flee.

My Dad is a Heel Wrestler, a Japanese film, tells the story of a boy’s understanding of ‘goodies vs baddies’ is challenged in the wrestling arena when he discovers his father actually plays villain who everyone loves to hate.

Other highlights include vlogging and presenting workshops, a range of free arts and crafts activities, free animation activities with local artists and an outdoor food market.

The event is taking place on Saturday, September 4, from 10.30am to 6pm.

For more information on this year’s festival and Small World Cinema visit www.smallworldcinema.com

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