Well look at that, not only are we suddenly something like half way through the year but we’re also deep into the middle of the East End Film Festival. Now in its 15th year the EEFF has become one of the capital’s most exhilarating sprints through everything exciting in contemporary filmmaking and this year has been no exception.

I’ve been meaning to post up some of the programme’s gems, including Deva Palmier’s fantastic short film “The Box”, however I’m late to the party and that film screened three days ago! Apologies.

Charlie Macgechan & Francesca Dale in Dee Meaden’s “Sibling”

Luckily though you still have a chance to see “Sibling” by the luminously gifted Dee Meaden which screens as part of “Shorts: Running In The Family” on the 8th July at 9pm in the Genesis. This is Dee’s third short and again she displays her skill at creating an atmosphere so dense you can almost see the intense tension between the characters.

The Genesis is also host, on the 9th of July, to the world premiere of “Containment” directed by Neil McEnery-West and written by David Lemon. I’ve not yet had a chance to see this film but it’s one of those “it” projects were great talents on the independent circuit come together across a sublime idea. It’s definitely always struck me as one of those indie films with real break-out potential.

And though the festival is built around a celebration of contemporary filmmaking I couldn’t go without mentioning a screening of Sydney J Furie’s outstanding adaptation of Len Deighton’s “The Ipcress File” which plays 4pm on the 9th at the Genesis. This is simply the most perfect spy movie that has ever been made and if you have any plans for Thursday afternoon less important than a matter of national security you really should cancel them. This screening is free for the over 60s and a must for anyone who just can’t get over the 60s.

See you there.