Joe Dunthorne, whose novel Submarine was adapted for the big screen by Richard Ayoade, has been named guest curator of literary adaptation festival From Page to Screen - which is now open for submissions.

The Welsh writer, whose latest novel is Wild Abandon, will reveal his film choices for the festival - held in Bridport, West Dorset from April 10-14 - over the coming weeks. Coming-of-age drama Submarine, released in 2011, will be shown at the festival and most screenings will feature a talk by authors or film-makers.

Dunthorne said he was “thrilled” to be involved with the event. “I’ve always been into film as much as books so I’m happy for the opportunity to weld my interests together,” he said. “In my mind the two art forms have always been linked so it’s exciting to have this chance to explore their relationship. I can’t wait to see how it all shapes up.’’

Call for entries

The festival is now accepting submissions for its Flash Film competition, which for the first time will only accept applicants from under 25s in a bid to encourage young filmmakers. Submissions are to be 60 second adaptations from any literary source. Deadline is March 24 and applications are free.

Polly Gifford, director of Bridport Arts Centre, said: “This year’s competition gives budding filmmakers a brilliant opportunity to showcase their work. The winning and shortlisted films will be shown on the big screen during the festival.”

Dunthorne will act as judge alongside Charlie Lyne, editor of the Ultra Culture movie blog, to choose the winning films.

At the festival, Lyne will discuss the film Clueless, the 1995 US comedy starring Alicia Silverstone that was loosely based on Jane Austen novel Emma.

From Page To Screen was founded in 2009 by Bridports Arts Centre, inspired by the Bridpost Prize - one of the country’s most respected literary prizes.

More details can be found at www.frompagetoscreen.org.uk.

Topics