PUNTERS were some of the first to see northwest London s up and coming filmmaking talent at the latest instalment of a popular free short film festival. Original films were sent in and then selected by a curatorial panel for the latest Brain Wash screeni

PUNTERS were some of the first to see northwest London's up and coming filmmaking talent at the latest instalment of a popular free short film festival.

Original films were sent in and then selected by a curatorial panel for the latest Brain Wash screening this week at the Westbury Bar in the Kilburn High Road.

This is the third in the Brain Wash series of events, which started off in November last year with free showings and popcorn, film-themed cocktails and question and answer sessions about the new flicks.

Brain Wash organiser Amy Hepton said: "We wanted to do something as a local group that would showcase new work in cinema from London and worldwide."

Ms Hepton said that young filmmakers were an unrepresented group in the industry and the aim was to ensure such budding talents do not "single track their way to a mundane existence".

She said: "We feel that there is a lot of hidden and fresh talent that needs exposure, and Brain Wash provides an inspired alternative to mainstream cinema, encouraging people to challenge popular cultural perceptions."

Films should be no more than 20 minutes long, each entrant will get a free drink and the winning films are voted for by the audience.

There will be more Brain Wash screenings so if you would like to submit an entry, email brainwash@westburybar.com.