AN annual celebration of cinema is set to inspire youngsters into movie making with a programme of free screenings.

Darlington will host the Into Film Festival 2016 this year to hopefully encourage the next generation of directors, camera operators and editors to learn more about the British film industry.

Screenings for five to 19-year-olds will be held in Northgate’s Odeon cinema and encourages schools, colleges and youth leaders to sign up to the educational festival.

An Into Film Festival spokeswoman said: “This year’s thought-provoking programme will offer a range of stories curated around six themes.

“The film titles – encompassing blockbusters, adaptations of novels and plays, British and classic films, documentaries, foreign language and world cinema – will address the importance of diversity and encourage young people to empathise with others.”

Educational guides for different age groups will be made available via the festival’s website, which will include a resource for students with special educational needs.

Autism-friendly screenings will also be available with audio-description and subtitling throughout the festival which takes place between Wednesday, November 9, and Sunday, November 25.

Films with themes on the environment, bullying and transition will be included in the festival, as well as immigration and discrimination.

A tribute to Roald Dahl’s centenary year will also form as part of the celebrations.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.intofilm.org/events/festival