FES Film Festival

The FES Film Festival brings outstanding local and independent films to unique community venues across the South and beyond, celebrating bold storytelling, award-winning work and fresh creative voices. This special screening features five short films and one feature documentary, highlighting the incredible talent of filmmakers from across the South alongside powerful international stories.

The feature film, The Banjo Boys, follows the remarkable journey of the Madalitso Band, two Malawian street performers whose homemade instruments and infectious sound capture the attention of a travelling British musician. What begins as a chance meeting on the streets of Lilongwe grows into an extraordinary musical adventure that takes them to stages across Zanzibar, Europe and the United States. Facing visa challenges, personal tragedy and the realities of life as independent artists, their story is a moving testament to resilience and the unifying power of music. Part of the documentary was filmed and edited in Bournemouth by director Johan Nayar.

The programme also features a compelling selection of short films. Playing Away, winner of the Film Expo South Script Competition, tells the enchanting story of a couple who sneak away for a seaside adventure to rekindle the joy that first brought them together. Psychological thriller What Happened to Evie explores how fractured memories can reshape the truth, while Night Armour delves into vulnerability and identity when a blind date takes an unexpected turn.
Rounding out the selection are two distinctive films by writer-director Alice D Cooper: Home to the Hangers, a poetic reflection filmed on the Hangers near Petersfield, and Ace, an uplifting and surprising encounter between two mischievous boys and an elderly man.

With strong links to Hampshire, Dorset and Portsmouth, the FES Film Festival shines a spotlight on regional filmmaking talent while sharing stories from across the world.

Join us to discover inspiring films, support independent creators, and experience a film festival with a truly community spirit.