Flatpack Festival
Film for all the senses

Another Fine Mess

Wednesday 14th March, 2012

| 20:30

We kick off with an evening of silent comedy at Birmingham Cathedral, accompanied by pianist Neil Brand.

Shakespeare’s jokes may not have aged too well, but it’s a safe bet that in 300 years people will still be laughing themselves silly at Laurel and Hardy. This evening’s entertainment will feature one of the finest moments from the boys’ silent period, alongside a feast of comedy from the early days of cinema through to the late 1920s; all of it selected, presented and scored live by acclaimed pianist and composer Mr Neil Brand.

Known for his appearances on The Film Programme (Radio 4) and his double act with Paul Merton on the Silent Clowns shows, Neil travels the world accompanying silent movies as well as creating new scores to rediscovered classics including Underground (dir: Anthony Asquith, 1928) and Piccadilly (E.A. Dupont, 1929). He has specially compiled for Flatpack a programme of neglected gems and old favourites, with a nod to our patron saint Charlie Hall. Highlights will include:

A PAIR OF TIGHTS (1929)

The sublime Anita Garvin and Marion Byron deal with stingy menfolk, revolving doors and ice-cream trouble.

DOG OUTWITS THE KIDNAPPERS (1908)

A dog-driving-a-car film which has recently found its natural home on Youtube.

YOU’RE DARN TOOTIN (1928)

Laurel and Hardy at their anarchic best as a couple of hopeless musicians, in a film which builds to a famous pant-ripping climax. Comedy sound effects provided by you, the audience.

After the pants have all been ripped do join us round the corner at the Jekyll and Hyde, where beverages will be served and the ladies from Sugarfoot Stomp will be playing some music till midnight.

Not only is this Flatpack's opening night but it also kicks off Film Bug, a festival within a festival which takes over venues across the city centre from 14-16 March.

Cert: U

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