Lowestoft's Sunrise Film Festival enjoys record
- More than 2,000 movie enthusiasts gathered in Lowestoft for the Sunrise Film Festival.
- Attendees enjoyed watching some of the best new independent films from the country.
- The festival's record-breaking attendance indicates a growing interest in independent cinema.
The Sunrise Film Festival in Lowestoft has marked a significant milestone, attracting over 2,000 attendees and showcasing 124 short films during its recent four-day event. Held at the Marina Theatre and Sam’s Wellbeing Hub and Café, the festival focused on important themes such as mental health and environmental issues, providing a platform for independent filmmakers to present their work, including three films shot in East Anglia. Organized by a dedicated team of 25 volunteers, the festival culminated in a glamorous red-carpet ceremony where 18 awards were presented, including 10 competition category awards and eight craft awards for outstanding films of 2024. Among the winners was "Seeing Read," a short comedy by local sisters Beth and Natasha Perkin, who expressed their pride in winning the Best East Coast Short Film award at their hometown festival, highlighting the rarity of comedic recognition in the UK film circuit. Festival organizers are already gearing up for the fourth edition, fueled by the enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated this year. Mr. Freemantle, a key organizer, emphasized the vital role of community support, volunteer dedication, and the remarkable talent showcased, all of which contributed to making this year the most successful in the festival's history. As the festival wraps up, it leaves a lasting impact on the local community and the independent film scene, with plans for future events already in motion. Follow Suffolk news for updates on upcoming festivals and local events.