Kids' Films Get Cinemagic Boost

Young film fans and cinema-goers of all ages are in for a cinematic treat as the 20th Coca-Cola Cinemagic International Film and Television Festival for Young People screens from today.

It is offering more than 100 film screenings from around the world-over 20 of which are UK/Irish previews and premieres and over 60 workshops, competitions, masterclasses and other film related events.

The much anticipated opening of the '20th Anniversary' festival will run in Belfast for 16 action-packed days.

The celebratory themed festival takes place in various Belfast venues including Movie House Cinemas, Odeon, Strand Cinema, and Queen's Film Theatre. New venues for 2010 include the newly refurbished Crescent Arts Centre, Ulster Museum and even the Lagan Legacy Barge.

Joan Burney Keatings, Cinemagic Chief Executive said: "We are delighted to present our 20th Anniversary Festival that offers fascinating film and television events for young people that are entertaining, educational and inspiring.

"With the support of our funders, and our Title Sponsor Coca-Cola we have been able to increase the number of activities taking place. Cinemagic has grown hugely over the years and is a major event on the cultural calendar in Northern Ireland.

"We will be welcoming a host of industry professionals to the Festival such as Oscar-winning screenwriter Julian Fellowes, actors Jason Flemyng and Patrick Bergin, award-winning film music producers Maggie Rodford and David Julyan, casting agents Ros and John Hubbard, Belfast-born, Dreamworks Animation animator, Phil McNally, television actress Suranne Jones and returning for a fifth consecutive year, highly acclaimed film critic and broadcaster Mark Kermode will be 'in conversation' with the Belfast audiences.

"This year we are also hosting an international young jury competition, and holding a Gala Awards ceremony in Belfast City Hall, so it will certainly be a festival to remember," she said.

Erica Roseingrave, Public Affairs and Communications Manager, Coca-Cola HBC, Island of Ireland said: "Coca-Cola is proud to sponsor the Cinemagic International Film and Television Festival for Young People once again this year."

For full details, see: www.cinemagic.org.uk

(BMcC/KMcA)