Mod films feature at cinema

Martin Freeman as Steve Marriott

LOUIS Beckett's Small Cinema in Moston is set to host a cracking evening of mod-related films and music on Saturday, July 16, starting at 7pm.

The main feature to be screened at the Teddington Road venue will be the BAFTA-shortlisted short film 'Midnight Of My Life'.

Martin Freeman, of 'Sherlock' and 'The Hobbit fame', inhabits the role of mod music icon Steve Marriott, former front-man with 60s psychedelic stars the Small Faces.

The film is directed by Phil Davis, best known as a British character actor of over 40 films from 'Quadrophenia' to 'Vera Drake'.

Davis took charge behind the camera for the first time since 1999 to direct Freeman alongside Theo Barklem-Biggs ('Kingsman: The Secret Service', Jack Baggs ('Pride') and newcomer Elliot Brown.

Manchester-based film-maker Nina Gerstenberger has written the screenplay for the film.

A devoted music fan and musician herself, Gerstenberger also produced and directed a documentary about contemporary mod culture called 'We Are The Mods', which will also be screened on the night.

'We Are The Mods' explores London's vibrant and cross-generational mod scene by taking a closer look at mod fashion, scootering, music and mod art.

The documentary features music by the Universal and Connett and interviews with comedian Ian Moore, the Small Faces and mod expert John Hellier.

Following the screenings, Gerstenberger and special guests will play a gig in the Small Cinema.

Her music can best be described as a mixture of indie and rock with a strong influence of British, Irish and American folk music.

Tickets (£10, £6 concessions) can be purchased byat: www.wegottickets.com/event/360952. Tickets also on the door.