Mansfield Town Film Festival has announced a collaboration with the British Film Institute (BFI) to screen classic action films at the town’s Palace Theatre in October.

The initiative will showcase some of the most celebrated action films ever made, giving audiences in Mansfield an opportunity to experience the cinematic masterpieces on the big screen.

The Art of Action Season is designed to celebrate the artistry and skill behind action filmmaking, focusing on the genre’s ability to deliver both entertainment and visual storytelling.

The programme starts on 4th October with the screening of The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938), a swashbuckling classic known for its thrilling action sequences and iconic performances.

It will be followed by The Train (1964) on 18th October 18th, a tense a second world war thriller featuring a compelling storyline about the French Resistance’s efforts to stop a Nazi train.

The season concludes on 25th October with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), a visually-stunning martial arts epic that captivated audiences worldwide with its breathtaking choreography and profound narrative.

Festival director Jay Martin said: “We are thrilled to partner with the BFI to present the Art of Action Season.

“This selection of films not only celebrates the dynamic nature of action cinema, but also highlights the incredible artistry involved in creating these adrenaline-pumping sequences.

“Our goal is to provide the local community with access to world-class films and foster a deeper appreciation for the craft of filmmaking.”

The decision to bring the Art of Action Season to Mansfield is a testament to the town’s growing reputation as a cultural hub, of which Mansfield Town Film Festival is thriving part.

Since its inception, the festival has been committed to promoting diversity and elevating under-represented voices in the film industry, with a particular focus on working-class talent and local stories.

Its success is reflected in an ability to attract renowned filmmakers and a diverse range of films from across the globe, as well as engagement with the local community through workshops, discussions, and special events.

Sian Booth, Mansfield District Council Cultural Services manager, said: “Hosting the BFI’s Art of Action Season is a fantastic opportunity for Mansfield.

“It allows us to showcase our vibrant cultural offerings and demonstrates our commitment to making high-quality, diverse cultural experiences accessible to all.

“The films selected for this season are not only entertaining, but also offer a fascinating insight into the evolution of action cinema.”

The BFI’s Art of Action Season was curated to celebrate the evolution and artistry of action cinema, a genre often celebrated for its thrills but also deserving of recognition for its craft.

The films were selected to showcase the genre’s diversity, from the daring stunts and romantic adventure of The Adventures of Robin Hood, to the tense, plot-driven suspense of The Train, and the poetic, choreographed martial arts of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

The Art of Action Season aims to achieve several key goals — to highlight the skill and creativity involved in making action films, to promote a deeper understanding of the genre among audiences, and to celebrate films that have pushed the boundaries of action cinema.

Jay added: “Our collaboration with the BFI aligns perfectly with our festival’s mission to bring diverse and thought-provoking films to Mansfield.

“We’re excited to offer our community a chance to experience these legendary films as they were meant to be seen — on the big screen, surrounded by fellow film enthusiasts.”

Tickets for the Art of Action Season are available at www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre

For more information about the season and to stay updated on all festival activities, go to www.mansfieldfilmfestival.co.uk