Published: 22 July 2010
by DAN CARRIER

IT is the centre for the boring bits of the British film industry: the PR people, the production offices and the general behind camera stuff that may make you yawn but without which we’d not be able to settle down with the popcorn. So it seems all too fitting that Soho has its very own film festival – and is there to give a hand-up to new talent.

Now in its 12th year, the Rushes Soho Shorts festival starts this week and the programme ranges from global premieres to street parties. Highlights include the Flicker Alley Street Party – hosted in historic Cecil Court, the first home of the British film industry back when Queen Vic was on the throne.

 The shops there are all mucking in with their own homages to film history. Taking place on Saturday, the event includes screenings of short films and a silent movie screening accompanied by pianist John Sweeney. Other highlights include “guest” films from other festivals, and the ICA and the Curzon group have handed over their auditoriums for shows. 

To add to the fun, viewers have the chance to vote in the awards process after each screening, making this a tad more democratic than the Oscars. 

While the festival is packed with unknowns, there is also a little bit of movie glamour. Films with cast including Robert Pattinson, Jenny Agutter, Ioan Gruffudd and Natascha McElhone feature, while there are also previously unseen music videos from the likes of Eminen and Franz Ferdinand on show. 

And with the added bonus that nine out of ten of the events put on are free, there is no excuse not to have a little look at what is on. • www.sohoshorts.com