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New Film Fest Boosts Emerging Directors
3 Apr
Summary
- Film festival offers free entry for young filmmakers.
- Event aims to be a launch point for filmmaking journeys.
- Proceeds will benefit a local dementia-friendly project.

Panther Fest, a film festival dedicated to supporting new talent, will be held at Halstead's Empire Theatre on May 16. Founder Freddie Penrose, a 21-year-old filmmaker, established the event last year to showcase the work of "young and emerging filmmakers." Penrose emphasizes making the festival as accessible as possible, with no entry fees for participants.
This initiative also provides a valuable resource for recent graduates through a scheme that lends filmmaking equipment. Penrose aims to bridge the gap for those who lose access to such resources after completing their studies. All proceeds from this year's Panther Fest are designated for the Halstead Dementia Friendly Project.