Horror and cult film festival Grimmfest is back with avengence, as it launched its fifth annual event with the first ever screening of the fully restored The Wicker Man at Stockport Plaza last night.
The Manchester-based event is a four-day blood-soaked treat for horror fans and features plenty of appearances from actors as well as directors and the special effects gurus who make the films come to life.
The festival, which takes place from October 3-6, is showing classic horror movies and premieres of new films at venues including The Dancehouse and the Lass O’Gowrie on Charles Street.
Last night’s premiere of 1973 classic The Wicker Man: The Final Cut was attended by the film’s director Robin Hardy, who answered questions from fans after the screening.
It is the first time a complete version of the 40-year-old film has ever been shown and follows a worldwide search for missing footage.
Commenting on the film’s enduring popularity the 84-year-old director said: “It’s very satisfying and surprising to have made something which still has the sort of appeal The Wicker Man has and the longevity of the film has been fantastic.”
Amongst the other guests who will be attending Grimmfest will be Shaune Harrison, one of the top make-up, prosthetics and SFX artists in the business.
His films include Nightbreed, Hellraiser and most recently World War Z in which he faced with the daunting task of creating a whole world full of zombies!
Simeon Halligan, festival director, said: “We are especially excited to welcome Shaune back to Grimmfest this year.
“We know there will be huge interest as he has worked on some of the most popular and important genre movies of the last few decades, creating amazing effects and monsters for the movies we all love.”
Image courtesy of British Lion Pictures via YouTube, with thanks.
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