After making a name for themselves in comedy, experimental theatre and Fringe shows for 17 years, Production Company Unrestricted View have rolled out the red carpet for their very first film festival this week. Advocators for independent artists, the festival sought out submissions without restrictions on length, genre, content or nationality, making for an eclectic line-up to do justice to the diversity of independent film. The festival premiered on Monday night to applause after screening Andy Goddard’s film Set Fire to the Stars; a beautifully crafted account of the life of poet Dylan Thomas starring Celyn Jones and Elijah Wood.

Seating 54 people, the theatre is a very casual and intimate venue which reinforces the festival’s complete lack of pretension. Held in the upstairs space of The Hen and Chickens Theatre Bar, where Unrestricted View are the resident theatre company, their screenings go hand-in-hand with popcorn and pints. The atmosphere is friendly and the faces behind the festival are approachable and welcoming; before and after screenings you’re likely to find directors and industry folk having a pint downstairs and up for a chat.

The week’s line-up consists of afternoon short film compilations, documentaries, and evening feature lengths, with industry workshops and panel discussions throughout, before wrapping up on May 1st with an awards ceremony.

For more information and ticket sales head to www.unrestrictedview.co.uk  and catch a show during these humble beginnings as Unrestricted View have big plans for the future and will surely be one to watch.