@ C nova, Edinburgh, until Mon 31 Aug 2015, @ 10:00 – 00:00
Although it is mainly known as the world‘s largest platform for performing arts, Edinburgh Fringe has way more to offer. Among the “alternative” programmes within this forum, which are often overshadowed by comedy or theatre, is the Fringe Film Festival. Already in its eleventh year, it has been continuing to showcase curated shorts films from UK, Europe and worldwide.
This year it can be found in a new delightful venue, which could easily win you over with its cozy, homely atmosphere. With several comfy sofas surrounding a rather small screen, it is the perfect free hideout from the rain, the sun … or the crowd flooding Edinburgh‘s central streets.
While it is not quite the typical Fringe programme, and for some it might just be a way of filling in time between Festival shows, cinefiles may find it a real gem. The shorts selected are grouped into various strands according to their genre, and create a different programme for every day of the week. For instance, on Mondays you can watch experimental films followed by drama; Tuesdays are dedicated to world cinema; and so on. Late afternoons and evenings offer a general, mixed screening.
However, if documentaries (for instance) are not your cup of tea, you might not enjoy popping in during the time dedicated to this genre. That said, it is rather disappointing that you cannot find the daily programme displayed anywhere in the venue, something that would help greatly when trying to make an informed choice whether to go in or not.
If you are looking for a free Fringe alternative to the Festival craziness in a relaxing atmosphere, pop in for an hour, two, or the whole afternoon.