‘HOME-FROM-HOME, AT BFI SOUTHBANK!’

by A_F_R_O_W

I have been, somewhat, adopted by the BFI!

In a wide-angle view, its exterior would resemble a glacial palace, yet, the automatic opening of entrance doors, leads you into a labyrinthine coccon of artistic excellence, the atmosphere, of which, is laden with creativity. To be within the environs of such a precious jewel in the crown of audio-visual arts, to breathe in its air, is not only inspiring, but to be further absorbed and integrated into a truly stimulating world.

From surreal to evocative, documentary to dream-like, kitchen-sink to Hollywood, U.K. to Global, BFI Southbank programming caters for all tastes. You need only cast your eye upon (and promptly, pick up) guides to current and future screenings and events, to see the wealth of choice on offer. For instance, I recently experienced the genius of “Easy Rider”* and, no sooner had I assimilated its brilliance, than I was back on the ‘frow’, absorbing the, somewhat juxtaposed, supremely-acted and fast-paced, French two-hander, of Polanski’s “Venus In Fur”!

The month of August heralds the arrival of “Teenage Kicks”, an exploration of the representation of such a unique period of pubescent physical, emotional and spiritual growth-spurts of life. The span of filmic articulation, over multiple genres, includes an amazing roster, to include the classic “Heathers”, which will surely resonate in the guise of nostalgic fashion flashbacks and the London premiere of Sonic Cinema’s “Beyond Clueless”, which documents 200 stand-out moments in the teen-movie genre. With a live score from from ‘Summer Camp’, and post-screening DJ set, this is definitely top of my go-see list! Undoubtedly, “I was there when” will echo through many a cognitive corridor…I’m already hearing ‘Ahmad’s’ hypnotic refrain of “Back in the day, when I was young, I’m not a kid anymore, but sometimes I sit and wish I was a kid again..”, revolve around the turntable of my inner jukebox!

September also promises much excitement, featuring the jam-packed weekender, a much-loved strand to the BFI repertoire. A highlight must surely be the ‘African Odysseys’ season, a highly-anticipated series of unmissable screenings and talks. Writer, Nadia Denton will be in conversation, at the launch of her new book “Beyond Nollywood”, part of a 2-for-1, for those who see Chika Anandu’s ‘B for Boy’. Also scheduled is the wonderful “We Love Carnival”, curated by Michael La Rose, which will follow the winding road of the Carnival tradition, exploring its Caribbean roots and musical heritage, to its diverse impact on a global scale.

This is just the tip of the glacial iceberg to this palace, which I call my ‘second home’ and, should the aforementioned have whet your Arts-appetite, simply click the links below, to the fantastic BFI website, for futher details of listings and booking. But make sure you move quickly, because these enlightening events and more, will be extremely popular!

With that said… Go forth and enjoy the seasons!

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BFI SOUTHBANK: www.bfi.org.uk ~ BFI SOUTHBANK GUIDE: AUGUST ~ BFI SOUTHBANK GUIDE: SEPTEMBER/ OCTOBER

AFRICAN ODYSSEYS

Heartfelt thanks to the BFI Press Team for supporting my cinematic development and being such amazing hosts!

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*“Finding my way from Hopper to Hoppen!” charts my journey of creative epiphanies via the BFI Southbank and Michael Hoppen Gallery!

©AFROW2014-2019. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.