THE inaugural Eastleigh Film Festival kicks off in just under a week and organisers warn movie-lovers to buy tickets soon or risk disappointment!

Boasting unique interactive experiences and classic films, the exciting week-long event is already shaping up to be a big success.

Danny Leigh, chief critic for BBC1’s Film 2014, has helped shape the festival, which will open with a gala night of audience-picked films on September 22 at Eastleigh’s Vue cinema, featuring classic horror The Shining, gooey sci-fi The Fly and chilling thriller Les Diaboliques.

The innovative festival will revitalise the movie-going experience through rare one-off screenings in unique locations around the town. These venues include the Swan Centre shopping complex, which will house an out-of-hours zombie epidemic alongside George A. Romero’s iconic horror Dawn of the Dead, and AMF Bowling, which will offer free games before a rare screening of the Coen Brothers’ cult bowling comedy The Big Lebowski.

“Every now and again you need to remind people of where the magic is, both in films and in the cinema experience itself,” said opening night host Danny Leigh, “that’s what really appeals about Eastleigh Film Festival – the experience.”

There’s something for all tastes too, with a double-bill of dance movies alongside dazzling demonstrations on Friday, September 26, and a free families’ zombie trail on Saturday, September 27 , the ideal way to introduce little ones to the magic of the movies.

Aspiring filmmakers will get the chance to meet the experts at a specialist Industry Day on September 25 that will feature workshops, talks and a panel discussion with speakers from Creative England, the BBC and Empire magazine.

Organisers warn a foodie movie night at La Fenice restaurant has already sold out and advise people get online and book your tickets now: eastleighfilmfestival.com