It's a case of survival of the most gripping at this interactive new cinema event in Bethnal Green. The Sir Charlie Darwin Movie Battle involves a selection of freshly-made short films going head-to-head as they line up to be screened in front of an audience with the power to give each one the thumbs down if it isn't up to snuff. A bit brutal perhaps, especially with many of the directors in the room, but the night does promise a crackling atmosphere — and hopefully a few tears and tantrums.
The next short film showdown takes place this Sunday and will be as Londony as possible with a focus on projects made by film-makers from the capital. It will be compered by Joel Sanders and followed by the premier of a documentary by Eric Schachter, the man who invented the movie battle format. His project 'Harlem USA' details the negative impact that gentrification has had on Harlem and its long-time residents, offering insight into a phenomenon that is also spreading with mixed results all over London.
The Sir Charlie Darwin Movie Battle is on at the Backyard Bar & Comedy Club in Bethnal Green on 2 November at 7:30pm. Advanced tickets are £7.50 (£5 students), otherwise it's £10 on the door.
