Making Waves Film Festival

Tag: The

  • Hunt for the Wilder People half-term screening with Motiv8

    Hunt for the Wilder People half-term screening with Motiv8

    As part of the MWFF community curated screening initiative, we partnered with youth charity Motiv8 and the University of Portsmouth to put on a half-term screening of ‘Hunt for the Wilder People’ (2016).

    Hunt for the Wilder People MWFF 2024 & Motiv8 - pop corn machine

    The young people collaborated with students from the university to select a film they would like to see and curate an event for neurodivergent young people. Engaging with the film’s content and neurodivergent sensitivities the event was themed around feelings of isolation and pathways to connections.  Staged at Treagolds Warehouse, Portsea the young people designed various activities within the space  -there was a sensory tent, a self-made photo booth, a friendship tree for people to add their thoughts and a game created by the young people that was played prior to the screening.

    The atmosphere at the event was fun and relaxed and the young people felt comfortable and calm. The space was really-well suited to the screening and was nicely decorated by the young people. The popcorn machine provided by David at Gosport Community Cinema who also provided and installed all the projection equipment was a brilliant touch.

    The young people told us they loved the film, they thought the film was funny and entertaining. They liked the social side of the event but especially they loved the food and the goody bags the organisers had put together.

     

    This event was funded by Film Hub South West via the BFI Film Audience Network and was a partnership between MWFF, the University of Portsmouth and Motiv8.

    Sponsors & Supporters Template 2024 Hunt for the Wilder People 1500x360

     

  • Rediscovering a timeless classic – “The Commitments” (1991)

    Rediscovering a timeless classic – “The Commitments” (1991)

    So, I’ve been diving back into the classics recently, and guess what popped up on my radar? “The Commitments” – that vibrant, soulful, and utterly compelling 1991 film directed by Alan Parker. Yeah, I know, it’s been a while, but bear with me because this one’s a real treasure, especially for us here in Portsmouth.

    First off, let’s chat about the film itself. “The Commitments” is like a love letter to soul music, set against the backdrop of Dublin, Ireland. It tells the story of Jimmy Rabbitte, an ambitious music fanatic who forms a soul band with a bunch of local misfits. These aren’t your polished, ready-for-the-spotlight musicians; they’re raw, real, and have the kind of passion for music that’s contagious.

    The film is a delightful mix of humour, drama, and some seriously good tunes. It’s about more than just the music, though. It’s about ambition, identity, and the power of dreams. It’s about the gritty, everyday struggle and the beauty of creating something meaningful amidst all that.

    Now, why am I rambling on about a film from the early ’90s to you, my fellow Portsmouth dwellers? Because, believe it or not, “The Commitments” has a lot to say to us today.

    Why Portsmouth, Why Now?

    Portsmouth, our beloved port city, shares more than a few similarities with Dublin. There’s a certain resilience and spirit here, born out of our rich maritime history and our own unique blend of cultures and communities. Like the characters in the film, we know a thing or two about facing economic challenges and coming out stronger, with a sense of humour and a song in our hearts.

    And let’s talk about music. If there’s one thing that “The Commitments” showcases, it’s the power of music to bring people together. Our city’s music scene is as vibrant and diverse as they come, and this film celebrates just that – the universal language of rhythm and soul that knows no boundaries.

    But perhaps most importantly, in these uncertain times, “The Commitments” reminds us of the importance of chasing our dreams, no matter how far-fetched they may seem. It’s about finding your voice, your tribe, and making a little magic happen, against all odds. Isn’t that something we all need a reminder of now and then?

    So, Why Should You Care?

    Because “The Commitments” isn’t just a film. It’s a journey back to a time when soul music was king, but it’s also a timeless story of perseverance, community, and the transformative power of music. For us in Portsmouth, it’s a mirror reflecting our own stories of resilience, diversity, and the unifying power of art.

    Screening this film in Portsmouth is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s a celebration of our city’s spirit, our collective struggles, and our undying love for good music. It’s a reminder that, no matter what, we can come together, find common ground, and maybe, just maybe, make something beautiful.

    So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer, I invite you to rediscover “The Commitments” with me. Let’s celebrate its message, its music, and what it means to be a part of this vibrant, ever-resilient city of Portsmouth.

    Trust me, it’s a journey well worth taking. And who knows? Maybe it’ll inspire you to start a little band of your own. After all, as the film shows us, sometimes all it takes is a dream and a few chords to start something extraordinary.

    Catch you at the screening, friends. Let’s keep the soul alive and kicking in Portsmouth! Get your tickets here.

    You can see The Commitments at Portsmouth’s first live cinema experience at The Staggeringly Good Brewery on Saturday 30th March, from 18:30 to midnight, for a unique live cinema experience featuring “The Commitments.” Dive into the ’90s, participate in live auditions, or vote for your favourite singer, all while enjoying a night of soul with The Soul Suspects. Don’t forget your ’90s attire for a chance to win a prize!