The first ever Commonwealth Film Festival is proud to showcase new exciting films from around the world at Cornerhouse, festival hub and partner venue. With a selection of titles taken from nearly 1,000 submissions, the Commonwealth Film Festival will show you the best of what Commonwealth filmmakers have to offer in the 21st century. In un/common visions you’ll find brand new features from many of the 72 nations of the Commonwealth. Established filmmakers and stars join up-and-coming talent to present movies never before seen in Manchester – in some cases making a unique appearance in the UK, in others appearing months before they hit the local cinemas. The Road Ahead is our focus on Commonwealth road movies. This is an opportunity to take new trips, cross borders and travel the world through a handful of film journeys that are as thought provoking as they are visually stunning. Expect new premières from Australia, Malaysia, Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and Cyprus. Reality Checks is our documentaries sidebar. An exciting line up of diverse voices from all corners of the Commonwealth. From the relaxing music of Indian guru Ravi Shankar, to the rough and ready beats of Russell Crowe’s band on tour. From Georgina, the first Maori transsexual MP in New Zealand, to the politics of AIDS awareness in South Africa, these real life stories will let you see it as it is. Shorthouse in Cinema 3 is our short films theatre. Refresh your browsers and prepare yourself for a kaleidoscope of bold images and visions from independents across the Commonwealth. Rarely seen African and Asian shorts get their first ever UK screenings. Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England all get regional spotlights, as do local talents in an exciting NxNW showcase. Imagined Worlds, Boys v Girls and All You Can Eat are some of the international programmes that should whet your appetite. The Commonwealth Film Festival will also offer a series of Gala Presentations and Festival Parties. You’ll also be able to learn from the experts and participate in debates by attending our masterclasses and seminars. Children won’t feel left out thanks to our Schools Programme and Zoom! a special weekend showcase for youngsters. Schools Programme A number of specially programmed films and events will take place for schools during the Commonwealth Film Festival. As well as highlighting the diversity of Commonwealth culture, the films have been selected for their relevance to curriculum topics. Study packs and worksheets will be available and special guests will lead sessions and workshops after the films. For more information: telephone Lorraine Rolston on 0161 228 7621. Pick up a festival highlights brochure or catalogue for full details of all screenings and events. Full programme information and booking will be available from 14 June. Tickets: Zoom! (children’s weekend showcase) £3.80 full / £2.50 children & concs Schools Programme £2.50 (Teachers Free) Afternoon screenings (from 1.00pm) £3.80 full / £2.80 concs Evening screenings (from 5.30pm) £4.70 full / £3.70 concs Masterclasses / seminars (from 10.30am) £4.00 full / £3.00 concs 6 PACK CARD:Pick up a festival loyalty card with your first ticket purchase and for every 5 tickets you buy throughout the festival, get the sixth one free! Screenings also at AMC Great Northern, Deansgate For more details, please go to the Official Commonwealth Film Festival Website.