The citizens of Belfast were out in force on Thursday evening as the 15th Belfast Film Festival kicked off in style with the world premiere of ‘I Am Belfast’ at the Movie House cinema, Dublin Road.

The film’s writer and director Mark Cousins introduced the film and was joined on stage by star Helena Bereen, composer David Holmes, producers Chris Martin and John Archer, as well as executive producers Glenn Leyburn and Lisa Barros D’sa.

The film – a deeply moving and poetic journey through the city’s past, present and future – was given a rapturous reception at two packed screenings.

BBC broadcaster William Crawley hosted a post-screening Q&A session with a delighted Mark and Helena which was followed by an opening night party at the Black Box on Hill Street, where everyone was entertained by the Belfast Guitar Orchestra long into the evening.

 

Mark Cousins & Helena Bereen answer questions after the screening of I Am Belfast