Welcome to the 2023–24 season of Films in Forest Row
It is always a delight choosing things to screen in Forest Row. Among our selection of great films from around the world, we like to have a balance of the recent, the classic, the obscure, and the unexpected, while at the same time to try out something new.
Perhaps unusually for us, this year’s programme has a prominent strand of films exploring many different sides of masculinity. These range from The Eight Mountains, set in the Italian Alps, and the very moving and sad Close, about two boys in rural Belgium, through to Flee and The Blue Caftan. It is a theme running through many of the films this season.
Though we are still just doing one regular screening a month, in this season we have three special events on Saturdays in the dark winter months. The last of these, in March, is the remarkably humane Red Beard by the great Japanese director Akira Kurosawa, which contrasts with our special February offering, a double bill of quirky classic American independent films: Jim Jarmusch’s Down By Law (1986), and the Coens’ O Brother Where Art Thou? (2000). Our special events start in December, and we are delighted to welcome back Olivier award-winning composer, Terry Davies, for a screening of The Golem (1920), with live music.
The season opens with what we imagine will be a popular choice for Forest Row, Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, and also includes the fabulous Alcarràs, by Spanish director Carla Simón, whose previous film Summer 1993 we had in our last pre-Covid season. We hope there is something for everyone, and we look forward to seeing you.
An Overview of the Forest Row Film Society
The Forest Row Film Society boasts a rich history that dates back to 1978. Over the years, we have made it our mission to bring the magic of world cinema to our community, showcasing a blend of classic films, works from renowned directors, and even treasures from the silent era. Our commitment to showcasing diverse and culturally significant films has not only enriched our community but also earned us various accolades, including the prestigious “Film Society of the Year” in 2009.
Originally founded with a vision to showcase films “in the cultural field and of a classic nature by the world’s great directors,” we’ve also occasionally delved into more mainstream features. This balance ensures our audiences experience the best of both worlds: the gems of global cinema and the classics close to many hearts.
Held in the charming setting of the Forest Row Village Hall, our screenings provide an immersive experience for film enthusiasts. Each year, from October to May, we curate a season of incredible films, presenting one or two every month. Interested in attending? Do check out the events list or our website for all upcoming screenings.
For those eager to delve deeper into our story and the cinematic journey we’ve been on, a detailed history of our society can be found on our website: Forest Row Film Society History.
Join us and be part of a tradition that celebrates the art of film in all its glory.