Event Coverage: DarkFest 2018
David Gelmini
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It may only be in its second year, but DarkFest is already shaking up to be one of the top horror-related events in the United Kingdom. While it only lasted for one day, horror fans still traveled far and wide to the Genesis Cinema in the heart of London to celebrate all things dark and sinister.
An eclectic mix of films were screened, beginning with Jason Read’s short Frankula, which was introduced by stars Emma Dark, Judy Matheson, and David Barry, (who also wrote the screenplay), along with producer Stuart Morriss. This was followed by the classic 1958 version of Dracula from Hammer films, which was then succeeded by something decidedly lighter in the form of the 1966 comedy Carry on Screaming. After the interval, we were treated to a screening of Horror Hospital, but not before star Robin Askwith delivered forty-five minutes of raunchy and NSFW stand-up comedy.
Lastly, the day ended with none other than one of the finest British horror films ever made, the 1968 classic Witchfinder General. It was no surprise to see Peter Fuller, the curator of the Vincent Price Legacy Foundation, in attendance.
Aside from the screenings, another highlight of the day was the newly-introduced Slaughter Awards, which were presented by organizer and Dark Side Magazine editor Allan Bryce to individuals who have been responsible for outstanding achievements in the horror industry throughout their long careers. The five recipients of the Slaughter Awards were Alan Frank, Graham Humphreys, Barbara Shelley, Denis Meikle and Dez Skinn, who have each contributed to making our genre a little bit more special over the years.
Outside of the screening room, the upper floor of the Genesis Cinema was turned into a sort of miniature horror convention, with Norman J. Warren, Ian Ogilvy, and Janina Faye all taking the time to get to know their fans. All in all, this was a great day surrounded by some of the best people the horror industry has to offer, and we can expect DarkFest to continue going strong for many years to come.
Categorized:News
