Creative Action is a weekend film festival that includes: a screening programme of four cross-global features, a BIAF partnership programme of international animated shorts, three inspiring and creative film workshops and a special real-life kickboxing demonstration.

The festival programme repositions action films from across the globe and across the ages by focusing on the artistry in action, showcasing the beauty of movement and creativity of stunts and combat. Readdressing the male dominated focus of action films, all features will showcase powerful female leads such as Franka Potente as Lola, Zhang Ziyi as Mei, and Meiko Kaji as Akemi, performing breath-taking action sequences.

House of Flying Daggers / 2004 / 2hrs / Rated 15

A glance from her, the whole city goes down. A second glance leaves the nation in ruins.

In AD 859. China’s fading Tang Dynasty is locked in conflict with rebel groups, primarily the mysterious House Of Flying Daggers. Tang captains Leo and Jin are charged with capturing the House’s new leader, and suspect that Mei, a young blind dancer at the Peony Pavilion, could be their key to success.

Ahead of the feature we will be thrilled with a real life kickboxing demonstration by local martial arts community club Team Queen, a queer-friendly space for marginalised genders to learn marital arts. We will screen a 5 minute film about the club and its members.

This project is possible with support of the BFI Film Audience Network, awarding funds from the National Lottery in order to bring this project to more audiences across the UK