Cinema Unbound: The Creative Worlds of Powell and Pressburger

BFI has partnered with FAN to present a new UK-wide programme, Cinema Unbound: The Creative Worlds of Powell and Pressburger.

Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s creative partnership in the 1940s created some of the most stylistically ambitious, thematically rich and subversive British films ever made.

Cinema Unbound is the first UK wide celebration of this duo of filmmakers and their unique creative vision.

Powell and Pressburger not only transformed British cinema, but the creative universes they created have influenced the world of cinema and bled into wider popular culture. This allows for numerous entry points into their work for audiences, in line with BFI’s Screen Culture 2033 priorities.

Backed by a UK wide Press and marketing campaign and a central listing platform, the season will have a broad audience appeal.

Film Hub Scotland members can now apply for support to present seasons, events and screenings that celebrate the work of Powell & Pressburger and their influence.

Amounts you can apply for

To screen a Menu of films in the season, you can access up to £500 (£125 per film).

To develop a Bespoke season of films in your area, or Cross-Fan project that can involve venues beyond your region, you can access up to £15,000 (awards likely to be circa. £5,000).

You must be a member of Film Hub Scotland as part of BFI Film Audience Network to access support from this programme. Find out more about joining Film Hub Scotland.

Period of activity

The bulk of the season takes place this Autumn (16 Oct – 31 Dec 2023) at BFI Southbank and across FAN.

Note that the menu will be available to book until the end of Feb 2024.

Key dates

  • Cinema Unbound Sprint on Thursday 1 June at Watershed in Bristol. Register your interest here and note that travel bursaries are available.
  • Deadline for Bespoke, Cross FAN Proposals (and Menu Expressions of Interest to be included in initial listings announcement) – Friday 30 June 5pm (BST)
  • Decisions made: 24 July 2023
  • After the deadline, the call for Menu applications will be kept open on a rolling basis until Mon 16 Oct 2023.
  • BFI Full Programme announcement: early Sept
  • Period of Activity: Mon 16 Oct – 31 Dec 2023 (except for the Menu which can be booked until 29 Feb 2024.)

To learn more and apply, please click here.

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