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Mark Endorses Forget Carter

With the recent death of my father, 2017 hasn’t been the best start although there are a few things in the pipeline regarding possible book talks so watch this space for further details.

In the meantime I’ve attended a couple more silent film screenings. German Expressionism of the twenties is a truly powerful cinematic medium, and once again I had the pleasure of watching two very influential films.

I went to St Mary’s Heritage Centre in Gateshead to watch Nosferatu (1922), F W Murnau’s unofficial version of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. As with the previous silents, it featured live musical accompaniment. This fully restored version still has the power to fascinate, especially with the remarkable performance of Max Schrek as Count Orloff. You can almost smell his rank breath!

The other film got screened at St Nicholas’ Cathedral in Newcastle. Fritz Lang’s Metropolis(1927) is magnificent; a true science fiction classic laced with social commentary that is still relevant today. The impact of the film is further enhanced by a brilliant live music score.

In between both screenings was an event I’ve been looking forward to for quite a while – the book launch of Chris Phipps’ Forget Carter (Newcastle on Film & Television) at Newcastle Library. This event was staged by The Royal Television Society, Newcastle City Council and David Hepworth (pictured) of Tyne Bridge Publishing. We even had the presence of the Lord Mayor of Newcastle & former Lindesfarne drummer Ray Laidlaw among the 200 guests.

I had already seen Chris’ informative talk at the Black Gate in Newcastle. More Importantly, it was also a chance to buy his book. Thanks to Chris, I got involved with The Whitley Bay Film Festival & The Newcastle Book Festival. Its really a debt of thanks to both him & David for their kindness & support.

A wonderful evening all round.

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