Film spectacular 'On the Waterfront'

Liverpool’s waterfront came alive at the weekend as Europe’s biggest cinematic experience came to the Pier Head.

Visitors were taken on an exhilarating journey through classic movies, visual performances and locally produced short films in the three-day event, Film on the Waterfront.

The occasion was hosted by Culture Liverpool and Liverpool City Council's culture service. The producers of the event were Walk the Plank, an events organising company who also own Britain’s only touring theatre ship, which is also based here in Liverpool.

Tor Emms, marketing and communications officer for Walk the Plank, said: ‘‘Film is often part of multi-media events we produce but this is the first event we have produced solely dedicated to this medium.’’

The main feature on the Friday evening was ‘The Long Day Closes’ directed by Terence Davies, which tells the story of Bud McCormack, an 11 year old boy growing up in Liverpool in the impoverished 1950s. The reality of mundane everyday life is broken for Bud during trips to the local picture house where Hollywood idols let him escape from his less glamorous lifestyle.

Visitor Peter Moran said: ‘‘It’s a great setting with a good sound system, which really makes a difference. I came to the same event last year and really enjoyed it.’’

The central feature of the Saturday evening was the iconic cinema highlight, ‘On the Waterfront’, starring Marlon Brando featuring the famous movie quote: "I coulda been a contender, I coulda been somebody...’’, which was perfect for the occasion.

Sue McAdam, events manager for Culture Liverpool, said: ‘‘The films were partly inspired by the spectacular backdrop of the Three Graces and the newly refurbished Pier Head - Hence the Marlon Brando epic 'On the Waterfront'.’’

While film-lovers packed into the main seating area on the Saturday evening, others grabbed the last few remaining benches that lined the pavements nearby hoping for a good view of the film.

Mr and Mrs Connelly from the Wirral, said: ‘‘Our daughter came last night and really enjoyed it and so she told us to come here tonight. We’re really impressed, the atmosphere’s brilliant.’’

During the day visitors were able to venture inside the ‘Big M’, a unique mobile art space, resembling a giant tent, which showcased a selection of short films and animations for all the family to enjoy.