Cinemas - Task 6

There are many different independant cinemas in the UK. This is only 10 of the 51 in the UK.

These are independant cinemas in and around Essex (Mostly London Cinemas).

1. BFI Southbank (which is in London)
2. Genesis (which is in London)
3. Rich Mix (which is in London)
4. Prince Charles (which is in London)
5. and Rio (which is also in London)

These are another 5 independant cinemas in the UK.

1. The Cornerhouse (which is in Manchester)
2. Zeffirellis (which is in Ambleside)
3. National Media Museum (which is in Bradford)
4. The Phoenix (which is in Falmouth)
5. Watermans (which is in Brentford)

BFI Southbank

While it may not be an obvious choice for an independent cinema list, the BFI Southbank definitely qualifies, and if I were ranking them, would be a contender for the top spot. Iconic building, iconic location, great bar, incredible programme of films and events, always interesting patrons (and the odd film royalty), there is simply no better place for a film aficionado to while away the day. With membership perks, cheap Tuesdays, and agenda setting film seasons (which other indie cinema has the BBC making programmes based on their seasons?), the BFI Southbank is one of my favourite places in the whole country. Oh, and you can also watch thousands of films for free in the Mediatheque, which places the amazing BFI archive at your disposal.

Genesis

Friendly staff, a fun cocktail bar, and an eclectic mix of programming means this East London stalwart remains high on the list of quality indie cinemas in the capitial. Some of its screens may once have been glorified TV screens, but in recent years it has upgraded to match (and exceed) the most high-end of multiplexes. Fiercely independent, it celebrated it’s very own GenFest a few weeks ago, which included a remix of The Cabinet of Dr Caligari, Ghostbusters, a poetry slam, and live art in the gallery. Oh, and you can also get married there!

Rio

Tracing its roots back to 1909, this is one of the oldest cinemas in London, and is going stronger than ever in the 21st century. Now a Grade II listed building, the Rio looks like a beautiful art deco liner, but full of modern touches which enable it to thrive in East London where many cinemas have now gone. Part of the reason for this is its diverse range of film – where else would host a Turkish and Kurdish film festival? It also runs film education courses such as a 1960s/70s French Film course, special screening events (often calendar related), plus it has a red velvet curtained auditorium. What more could you ask for?

The Cornerhouse

A former furniture shop, The Cornerhouse is now a charitable cross-media powerhouse. With patrons including Helen Mirren, Danny Boyle, and Damien Hirst, its three screens, three galleries, café, and bookshop bar guarantee something interesting is always going on there. With a mix of the best independent cinemas, slightly more auteur focused Hollywood films, and events such as live scores of films, it’s a place designed to inspire debate about what you’ve just seen, and since 1985 has notched up some notable film history of its own – including the UK premiere of Reservoir Dogs. It’s also host to Viva! Spanish, one of the best film festivals in the UK.
Find out more about The Cornerhouse at: www.cornerhouse.org

The Phoenix

Winner of the 2010 UK independent cinema of the year, this is the crowning glory of the Merlin cinema group. A five screen beauty, its luxury cinema at its finest, with comfy sofas, waited service for food and drink, and an amazing American style diner upstairs to get a proper dinner from. Theatre screenings are a large part of the programme here, so all you drama buffs can enjoy Frankenstein without trekking to the capital. With an excellent film course at the uni, Falmouth is really establishing itself as a cinema hub in the west of England.

Watermans

Idyllic setting on the Thames, eclectic arthouse cinema screenings, lovely bar, and a decent Tandoori restaurant too? Watermans in Brentford is almost the definitive hidden gem. Like many of the indie cinemas in this list, Watermans is a larger arts centre with theatre, exhibitions and community programmes all going on, including an arts and mental health service. Of particular note though is their French Impressions series, which combines both an informative talk with an intriguing screening. A 125 seat screen provides an intimate place to watch these movies, and the views across to Kew Gardens seal the deal.