The Peckham and Nunhead Free Film Festival is back

The Peckham and Nunhead Free Film Festival is back, although it never really went away.

While other such events were being cancelled and postponed, it ran through the pandemic, even when that meant going mainly online.

Now in its 13th year, the festival organisers have curated an exciting schedule of features, catering to all ages and tastes.

Joint co-ordinator Ann Lazim said: “At a time when a lot of people are struggling financially, film festivals like ours are more important than ever.

“They provide free entertainment that appeals to a variety of people. Not only do our screenings bring community groups together, they’re also great fun.”

Films on show this year include classics like Bend It Like Beckham and Jumanji, as well as premieres of independent efforts such as the thought-provoking Change of Thought and Blasianing, which have both come out of Peckham.

Screenings will take place in pubs, bookshops and scenic outdoor areas.

In an environmentally-conscious move, many of this year’s films are pedal-powered. This is where the audience take it in turns to pedal on a stationary bicycle which powers the media player.

Second joint co-ordinator Neal Browne said: “We’re thrilled to be back and welcoming new volunteers for our 13th year. We’re also very proud to have kept the Peckham & Nunhead Festival running continuously through the toughest pandemic years.

“Nothing beats bringing everyone together in real life to share the film watching experience.”

Alongside the moving pictures, there will be a filming workshop for 14-18 year olds, at Mountview Academy.

The festival will run from September 8 to 18, with a packed schedule of screenings in a variety of indoor and outdoor venues across SE15.

For more details, go to freefilmfestivals.org/filmfestival/peckham-nunhead

Pictured: 2021’s open air screening of a gothic version of Beauty and the Beast at Nunhead Cemetery Picture: ©PNFFF