MUBI FEST Manchester at Aviva Studios
Tom Grieve, Cinema Editor
The brand new MUBI FEST arrives at Aviva Studios with a tantalising line-up of exclusive film screenings, Q&As, panel discussions and DJ sets. As a streaming service and online hub for movie lovers, MUBI has blazed a trail for over a decade now, thanks to its curated programme of cutting-edge films, lost classics and independent-minded cinema. That same spirit of discovery and innovation runs through the festival in Manchester, and MUBI are promising surprises around every corner.
Running across the weekend of 12 – 13 July, there are three main feature film screenings accompanied by director Q&As. Opening the Friday night is Levan Akin’s Crossing, a tender tale of identity and connection that won the LGBT Teddy Award at this year’s Berlin International Film Festival. On Saturday, the Ross Brothers’ joyous Gasoline Rainbow follows five teenagers on a road trip from Oregon to the Pacific coast.
That’s followed by a preview of In Camera, Naqqash Khalid’s playful, poignant film shot in Manchester, starring Nabhaan Rizwan (who will join Khalid for the Q&A) as Aden, a British-Asian 20-something with dreams of becoming a successful actor.
There will be a selection of short films from directors such as Sofia Coppola and Yorgos Lanthimos, alongside grime legend Skepta’s directorial debut
You can purchase tickets for the headliner screenings, but the rest of MUBI Fest is free to attend. So, drop by the purpose-built MUBI Screen nestled in the belly of Aviva Studios, where there will be a selection of short films from directors such as Sofia Coppola and Yorgos Lanthimos, alongside grime legend Skepta’s directorial debut.
Or settle in for Dazed x MUBI Cinema Club which features a selection of talks and discussions on everything from designing film posters and trailers, to a behind the scenes look at how to cast a movie.
That’s not all, with MUBI eager to bring a real festival vibe to Aviva Studios, attendees can look for workshops at the art table, a poster journey through MUBI’s history and special food and drink offerings — including £6.50 signature cocktails all weekend. While the festival soundtrack will be provided by a line-up of talented DJs including Tarzsa, Chandé and Fastlove who will keep the party going until midnight.
