TICKETS are now on sale for the fourth annual From Page to Screen, the UK’s only film festival dedicated to the adaptation of books into films.

The festival, to be held in Bridport, runs from April 11 to 15 and features a meaty line-up of British hits, classics and family films, as well as staying faithful to the screenings of sometimes-overlooked gems. Francine Stock, critic, novelist and presenter of Radio 4’s The Film Programme, is curating the five-day event.

She said: “I am delighted that we can present the line-up for this year’s FPTS.

“In the mix, we have adaptations both free and faithful, insights from our most inspired screenwriters, grand visions, fatal passions, charming tales and deliciously Gothic mysteries.

“From a century of cinema, there are films to please all ages.”

Showing 20 films over five days at Bridport Arts Centre and The Electric Palace, most films will be accompanied by a guest speaker involved in the writing or film-making process.

Highlights include: n Opening night screening of Jean Renoir’s La Bete Humaine, an adaptation of an 1890 novel by Emile Zola updated to the 1930s, following a talk by Francine Stock.

n A screening of The Loneliness Of The Long Distance Runner with guest speaker Sir Tom Courtenay, who won a Bafta for his starring role.

n The Woman in Black, with James Watkins, who stars in it.

n A preview of Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, co-starring Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt, followed by guest speakers Simon Beaufoy, who wrote the screenplay for Slumdog Millionaire and author Paul Torday.

n Jane Eyre, following a Masterclass with screenwriter Moira Buffini on the art of adaptation, presented by Bafta.

n Wuthering Heights, adapted from the novel by Emily Bronte, with post-film Q&A with screenwriter Olivia Hetreed.

Film enthusiasts can enjoy a Sunday brunch, including bacon rolls and a complimentary glass of Bucks Fizz, in the Bridport Arts Centre café following a screening at 11am on April 15 of Rashomon, a classic Japanese drama film directed by Akira Kurosawa.

Local businesses have donated tasty treats for the brunch, including Denhay Farms, Leakers Bakery, Clipper Teas and Dorset Cereals.

Leakers are preparing fresh cakes and biscuits for every day and Olives Et Al has also provided a selection of olives and nuts, a perfect accompaniment to pre-movie drinks. For tickets and details about the event, contact the Bridport Arts Centre box office on 01308 424024 or the Bridport Tourist Information Centre on 01308 424901 or you can book seats online at bridport-arts.com