The Cambridge International Super 8 Festival is an annual celebration of Super 8, the much-loved – if now rather antiquated – cartridge film format, which was initially popular with professional and home movie makers alike in the 1960s and 70s, and which has since enjoyed a renaissance due to its unique, timeless qualities. Hot Fuzz/Spaced/Shaun Of The Dead director Edgar Rice is one film-maker who is a big fan of the format, and the likes of Tim Burton and Oliver Stone have also used Super 8 during their careers. So it may have been superseded in the digital age, but it has always continued to have a loyal following.

The festival is now in its fifth year, and continues to go from strength to strength. Last year featured 60 short films, a feature film, workshops, events, and visitors from around the world, while this year there is a new hub for events and a showcase of animation, comedy, drama and experimental films – all, of course, made using Super 8 cameras and films – across the long weekend at the end of April (which has the extra Bank Holiday for the royal wedding).

Highlights of this year’s festival include:
- The UK premiere of a feature-length documentary about the making of Mammuth, a successful French film starring Gérard Depardieu and Isabelle Adjani
- Daily international, European and UK premieres, with each programme screening between ten and 15 short films from around the world.
- Film workshop: A guest film director teaches participants how to use a Super 8 camera, process films, and contribute to making a film that will be screened at the end of the festival. Places limited, so sign up early!
- Panel discussion looking at the latest trends and practices relating to Super 8 and small format film-making.

Events this year are taking place in and around the HQ of Squeaky Gate, the charitable organisation and community space located on Norfolk Street. A must for anyone interested in film history, innovative movie-making and creativity in general!

Cambridge International Super 8 Film Festival, Thurs 28 April-Sun 1 May, Squeaky Gate, 47-51 Norfolk Street. For full info and programme visit www.cambridge-super8.org