Chapter hosted a season of films concentrating on the impact of women and how they have been portrayed within and created their own Action cinema, including introductions, post-film discussions and additional activities. The season also highlighted Wales’ role in Action cinema, as well as presentations of films by and for people with learning disabilities with Hijinx Unity Festival, and the D/deaf community with the Chapter Deaf Film Club.
Darkened Rooms explored themes of justice and crime fighting with their season of police action thrillers at The Tramshed Cinema in Cardiff. The season included the Jackie Chan action series Police Story (1985), Police Story II (1988), and Police Story III: Supercop (1992).
The Dragon Theatre’s season of three films featured screenings presented by stunt artists professionals who brought the behind-the-scenes viewpoint to the films being shown. The season explored the importance of real action in cinema, starting at the dawn of cinema with a black and white silent classic, explored martial arts and the changing attitudes towards women in cinema.
‘Lights Camera Action’ at Gwyn Hall showcased iconic action movies from the history of cinema. Audiences embarked on an exhilarating journey that started with the early brilliance of Buster Keaton’s The General, then moved through the 60s with Steve McQueen classic Bullitt, featuring action packed car chases. Their season concluded with a dynamic double bill of Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill 1 & 2, blending martial arts, action and revenge.
The Magic Lantern Cinema celebrated the skill and creativity behind live-action films with a season of themed events. Highlights included a ‘Stunt Hunt’ in Tywyn, a special screening of Point Break with local surfers, a live band, and a community party. Martial arts demos accompanied Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, while free sword fighting workshops were held alongside The Princess Bride. The season concluded with an ‘Action Film Quiz Night’ for fans to test their knowledge.
