On the Verge Film Festival is launched at the Hospital Club

From 2 March to 4 March, the Hospital Club hosted the launch of On the Verge, an exciting new film festival celebrating new, emerging work from a selection of talented female filmmakers. 

Featuring inspiring short films, expert panellists and stand-up comedy, On the Verge was organised and curated by filmmakers Riffy Ahmed, Jacqueline Pepall and Amanda Brennan.

Amanda Brennan, Central’s Principal Lecturer and Course Leader of MA Acting for Screen, also works as a freelance acting coach and has directed and produced a series of award-winning short films.  She is the director of Letters to April (2016), and Birthcloud (2015), which won Best Supporting Actress and Best Ensemble Cast at the Monaco International Film Festival in 2015.  She has recently worked with actors on various projects including Genius (2018), Journey’s End (2018), and Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016).

A number of students and graduates from Central’s MA Acting for Screen course had their work shown as a part of the festival, including Vanesa Calderon, Robyn Rainsford, Anna Mackay, Daniele Darvill, Eva Kung and Jessica Priestley.

Speaking about the Festival, Amanda Brennan said:

“The festival screened 38 shorts including several Q&A’s.  It was an opportunity for female filmmakers to show their work, network and – importantly – celebrate their talent.  We hope to programme future events at a grass roots level of support that is much needed in the industry.’’

All proceeds from On the Verge went to the Hospital Club Foundation, providing opportunities for young people to access, explore and excel in the creative industries.