North East horror film set for Durham premiere

A supernatural mystery filmed across the North East is set to make its regional debut following a screening at one of the UK’s leading horror film festivals.

The Brook, described as ‘Byker Grove meets Scream’, will be shown at Gala Durham next Monday (October 19), following its premiere at London’s FrightFest earlier this year.

Created by Durham-born filmmaker Paul Stainthorpe, of Hazy Pine Pictures, the coming-of-age horror follows art student Jacob, who moves to a village steeped in folklore and mysterious disappearances.

When a local resident vanishes, Jacob and his friends discover a video camera capable of showing events from an hour earlier, drawing them into an increasingly dangerous mystery.

Filming took place at locations including Framwellgate School, Eastgate, Stanhope, Newton Hall and Newcastle’s Zerox Club.

The production features a predominantly North East cast, including Helen Chong and Kieron Michael, both familiar to Gala Durham audiences through its pantomimes.

Following the screening, Paul, Helen and other members of the production team will take part in a special question-and-answer session.

Paul said: “Gala Durham has been a huge pillar of support throughout my creative journey, so I’m absolutely delighted to be bringing my debut narrative feature film to the venue.

“Filmed entirely in the North East with a talented local cast and crew, the film is a celebration of the incredible locations, creativity and filmmaking talent we have right here in our region.”

Lizzie Glazier, artistic director at Gala Durham, added: “We’re excited to host the premiere of The Brook right here at Gala Durham.

“This incredible production is a pure North East creation, featuring talented actors, the region’s best locations, and our own Durham-born director.

“The Brook is the perfect film to watch as we head towards Halloween, so we’d encourage everyone to come along and help us celebrate this amazing regional achievement while getting into the spooky spirit.”

Tickets cost £10, or £8 for concessions, and are available at galadurham.co.uk.

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