Screening and extras to be broadcast to 400 UK cinemas as part of pilot scheme.

BFI and Lionsgate UK have announced the pilot of a film ‘eventising’ initiative to boost audiences for new British independent films.

The first event will be a screening of Testament Of Youth on 12 January 2015, ahead of the film’s official release.

The screening at BFI Southbank will be preceded by an introduction from its director, James Kent, and its producer, Rosie Alison, and broadcast live to around 400 cinemas across the UK. 

After the film, members of the audience will be able to take part in a Q&A with Kent and Alison, while audience members in participating cinemas across the UK will be able to ask questions via Twitter.

The BFI aims to launch similar events depending on the success of the pilot scheme.

Amanda Nevill, CEO of the BFI said: “We think [BFI Presents] offers a great opportunity to help grow audiences for fantastic films being made in the UK.”

More events in the BFI Presents series will be announced in the new year.