In the run up to next weekend’s Film Festival, we will be turning the spotlight on each of the four sessions in turn.  In this case it’s our opening film on Friday, Judy (Cert.12, 118 mins) which sheds light on showbiz legend Judy Garland’s final years. Buy tickets online or in person at Chorleywood Bookshop.

But first things first… in relation to current Coronavirus public health concerns – we are following the Government’s guidance to ‘Keep calm and carry on’. We strongly urge everyone attending the Festival’s sessions to follow the NHS’s medical and personal hygiene advice & guidance (see: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/).

Now back to Judy….

Its 1968 and thirty years after rising to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, Judy  arrives in London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town. While preparing for the shows, she battles with management, reminisces with friends and adoring fans, and embarks on a whirlwind romance with musician Mickey Deans — all while bravely struggling to overcome intensifying anxiety and physical decline.

Don’t miss Renée Zellweger’s incredible performance in the title role which successfully hoovered up all the main ‘Best Actress’ awards this year.

Directed by Rupert Goold, the film also stars Jessie Buckley, Finn Wittrock, Rupert Sewell & Michael Gambon and features some of Judy Garland’s best-loved songs.

“She (Zellwger) is astonishingly good, not just looking and sounding like Garland, not just nailing the mannerisms, but also giving a performance of startling power and depth.” Brian Viner, Daily Mail

“With a jaw-dropping performance from Renée Zellweger at its pulsing, neurotic heart, the film is funny, warm and satisfyingly self-aware.” Lisa Mullen, Sight and Sound

The screening takes place at the War Memorial Hall, Common Road this coming Friday (14th March). The doors and bar open at 7.30p.m. and the programme begins at 8.00p.m.

Tickets: £6 : (Under 15s: £3) available from the Bookshop, online or on the door, if still available.

Please note: The Black Horse pub is offering special meal promotions (including Early Bird Suppers) to Film Festival go-ers throughout the weekend – please see http://www.black-horse.co.uk/ for full details.