Kids in London – Somerset House Film4 Summer Screen

As a result of global warning and the Brits’ new love affair with all things al fresco, it was with trepidation that I packed my picnic to attend one of the “cinema by stars” events in the annual Film4 Festival at Somerset House.

Following instructions, I took a picnic rug, wraps to guard against possible later chills and lots of drinks in coolers on the understanding that my colleague would bring an assortment of delightful food treats for the picnic. A pleasant walk across Waterloo Bridge followed where I developed a feeling of great empathy with a pack horse.

There are some films in the programme which are suitable for younger kids (e.g. ET, 2001 Space Odyssey and the premier of Chak of India) but I went along on Friday night to see Hot Fuzz and Point Break – both of which are 15 certificates (my son had been along to see Hot Fuzz when it was on general release so I braced myself for teenage humour).

All was well when we arrived. The crowd was happy and picnic-ing away. The somewhat eclectic music was playing just a tad too loudly and the surroundings were – well, simply magnificent. Sitting on a rug on a hard stone floor (Note: take cushions to future events) seemed a bit weird but it was ok. As the sky darkened and the air chilled, we were treated to a short introduction by Nick Frost (one of the stars of Hot Fuzz and films of a similar ilk) which was definitely not suitable for young ears although quite funny and then “Hot Fuzz” began. The screen was absolutely huge.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The film was funny. I mean, laugh out loud funny. Maybe the fact that my ex is a senior guy at the Met made me more attuned to the police humour although the other members of my party were just as amused. The sound effects in that square are awesome – now this is REAL surround sound! And as “Hot Fuzz” continued, I could understand why they had teamed it up with “Point Break” (and I thought it was just cos they knew I loved Keanu Reeves and Patrick Swayze!). It was fun too when the crowd joined in with appropriate booing and cheering as the film came to its climatic conclusion. What jolly good fun. I was very, very cold but happy at the end of the evening.

Anyway, the Film4 season next year will definitely be on my list for my teenage son and – as long as there is something appropriate – I will take my nine year old along too. A late night once in a while – and during the school holidays – is ok. Mind you, tickets go fast so you MUST book early. Although I will take even more rugs to guard against that midnight chill…

Timings - Doors open 630pm. DJ (Osymiso – an interesting blend of film tracks, old favourites including ELO, Adam Ant and ultra new stuff that I had never heard before “performed” on Friday). First film 915am – 11pm. Second film on double bills from 1115pm til around 215am.

:) :cool: