The Essex raised Hollywood star, Dame Helen Mirren, has given her support to the first Essex International Film Festival. The festival will take place across the county between 27 to 30 March 2025.
Dame Helen Mirren has enjoyed a long and successful career on stage and TV. She has also starred in over 80 films. Her credits include The Queen, Barbie and the upcoming Thursday Murder Club. Dame Helen’s support is a major endorsement for the festival.
The film industry in Essex is thriving. The festival is keen to shine a light on local and international talent, as well as highlighting established movie makers and emerging talent from across the world. The event will also be one of the first countywide film festivals in the UK.
Dame Helen Mirren is pleased to give the event her support. She said: “I’m excited and proud that my home county of Essex will be hosting a countywide film festival. The Essex International Film Festival will remind the film industry that we have a thriving and talented film industry right on the doorstep of London.
Echoing Dame Helen’s support is Charles Sharman-Cox. He’s the festival director and added: “Dame Helen Mirren backing the festival is a big confidence boost. She has unbelievable credentials starring on stage, TV and film productions. Plus, she’s from Essex and she recognises the real talent we have in the county. It’s an absolute honour to have Dame Helen on board, supporting the festival.”
The festival will take place at the Curzon Cinema and Mercury Theatre in Colchester. Electric Palace CINEMA in Harwich, and the Chelmsford Theatre. The festival will also run at satellite venues in Rayleigh and Hadleigh. Shortlisted films will be revealed at the end of January.
The Essex International Film Festival is supported by the Essex County Council Arts and Cultural Fund. To discover more about the event, visit www.essexinternationalfilmfestival.com.
