Aspiring London filmmakers had the chance to see their work on the big screen for free last month, thanks to a unique event in Shoreditch.
Kino Short Film hosted its 148th open mic night at the Strongroom Bar on November 25th, offering a non-competitive platform for indie filmmakers to screen their shorts, network, and find inspiration.
The event operates on a first-come, first-served basis, fostering an accessible and inclusive environment for creative expression.
Event organiser Dustin Murphy described Kino as a “blue-collar approach to cinema.”
He said: “This event is about sharing stories, not competition, which is refreshing in an all-too-often intimidating industry.”
Murphy, who recently produced his first feature film, believes Kino thrives in what he calls the “post-Hollywood” era, where accessible technology empowers anyone to create compelling stories.
The films showcased on the night varied widely, from minimalist art pieces to martial arts action shorts and Netflix-ready documentaries.
Independent filmmaker Sam Milletti, who screened his short Fernando, praised the event.
He said: “I came to Kino for the unique chance to share my work with others.
“Storytelling has always been about shared experiences — something we’ve done for thousands of years.
“While online platforms are amazing, they often lack the human element of sitting together in a room, hearing the laughs, the silences, and feeling part of a collective moment.
“Nights like this let us connect, learn from each other, and find inspiration. I’m leaving with new ideas shaped by the incredible work I’ve seen tonight.”
Founded in 2009 as a grassroots meet-up for hobbyists, Kino has since evolved into a vibrant platform welcoming both newcomers and seasoned professionals.
Since taking over in 2018, Murphy has expanded Kino’s offerings to include a film festival and online distribution.
Despite its growth, Kino remains true to its original mission: to provide a judgment-free space where anyone can share their work.
For independent filmmakers, Kino’s Short Film Open Mic offers a rare opportunity to engage with the filmmaking community in a meaningful, collaborative way.
All photo credits: Oliver Halls
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