We’re lacking a space where we can all celebrate brilliant film making
Since living in East Dulwich, I’ve questioned why a small creative alcove like ours, lacks any type of neutral cinema space? When I say any type, I’m not talking about some sort of huge multiplex - Peckham Plex is close enough by to fulfil this, and is probably better than the likes of Odeon in Surrey Quays - but really one which is individual, and holds plenty of bijoux charm which matches the community and surroundings.
With the onslaught of the recession taking grip post-2008, pop-up’s have been the way retail and service businesses have been able to launch, or in some cases diversify and keep going. I never went (which was a real regret of mine last summer), but was intrigued by the concept of the pop-up cinema housed in Peckham on the top of the protected and much-loved Peckham car park. The idea of drinking summery cocktails and watching nostalgic infused films appealed - as it did to many who came from all over to experience its uniqueness.
Peckham has carved out a little niche, providing residents with affordable and diverse cinema. They also have made use of the summer sun-trap that is the top of a Peckham car park to showcase all sorts of explorative film. But East Dulwich is yet to catch up…until now!
The introduction of Picturehouse in East Dulwich is positive
The launch of a cinema in East Dulwich has been on the cards for awhile. East Dulwich forum members have been documenting progress since July last year. But finally plans to take-over St Thomas Moore Hall are close to being given the go-ahead. Picturehouse cinemas - a network of art-house cinema’s showing progressive cinema - are the ones applying for the go-ahead. They’ve done a great job with the Ritzy in Brixton. Not only showing new releases, but running some clever ‘seasons of film’ focusing on particular directors or genres. The East Dulwich audience seem to be the right target to support mainstream and Independent cinema.
Reading posts on the ED forum, there truly is a mixed consensus on the introduction of a cinema on Lordship Lane. After trawling through the majority of opinion - much like my own - the ‘right’ type of cinema could make the perfect inclusion into the community. We’re looking for a quaint, accessible place, where people appreciate film and film making, and show the right type of ‘stuff’. A community inspired cinema that allows all ages to experience new (and old) film, giving something back. One which isn’t elitist, and cultivates an environment where people can come together collectively to be inspired. As you can probably tell - I can’t wait.
Pre-planning applications are being discussed with Southwark council. They held a ‘presentation of plans’ meeting at St Thomas Moore Hall on Saturday for residents of East Dulwich to attend and air any concerns or field any questions. Did anyone go? What were your thoughts? Are they keeping the same theme as the Ritzy? I’d love to hear from those who attended.
The time is right - British film takes on Hollywood
British cinema has been in the limelight for quite awhile now. Film Four has relentlessly pursued Hollywood, making sure British film is considered on the world stage as an equal. Foundations have been embedded through the years (Slumdog Millionaire, The Iron Lady, This is England just to name a few). But now more than ever, British cinema is shaking off the quaint, stuffy tweed cloak that’s perpetually shrouded it, and reinforced by a glitzy and glamorous Hollywood . And instead delivers powerful films - 12 years a slave and Gravity - which Hollywood recognises as some of THE best of the year. Collaboration and mutual respect has made this happen. I can’t wait to experience many more films such as these in a little cinema, just down the road, where we can all come together and celebrate. Roll on the cinema extravaganza happening in East Dulwich, hopefully very soon. We may also be able to showcase some breakthrough London filmakers, giving them a platform to tell their unique vision and stories.
What do you think about the new Picture House cinema? Please comment below…
6 Comments
I do hope that this venture will be successful. How times change, and yet come full circle. I have lived in Berkshire for over 50 years and in the early 1960’s Sunninghill had a tiny cinema, about the size of a modern multiplex individual cinema. The manager would welcome you at the entrance and bid you goodnight at the end of the performance, and his wife would sell you your ticket. In 1964 some of us heard about a new film which was supposed to be quite good, but it did not seem to be showing anywhere near. At Sunningdale, if enough people requested a particular film then the manager would do his best to get it. That is how I first saw Zulu. With DVD’s and repeats on TV these days it seems remarkable that we had to ask for it to be shown.
Beryl - you’re right, it’s amazing how fashions and trends come ‘full circle’. Or maybe not ‘full circle’, it’s probably more that new ideas are essentially borrowed and tweaked.
The 60’s cinema that you mention sounds like a lovely experience. And that’s what I think makes your visit to the cinema…the experience! Which is why Picturehouse, Everyman brands of cinema are flourishing. They provide a welcoming, personal, quirky experience coupled with the right films.
I love the idea of talking to cinemas to get the films you want put on. Maybe having a community collective that discusses with the cinema what the local film community want to see. Great ‘borrowed’ idea!
Thanks for a lovely story and comment.
WOW! This would be brilliant! Can’t happen soon enough. Next, we need a theatre.
Jane - I couldn’t agree more.
Similar to the pop-up-cinema, previously located on the top of the abandoned car park in Peckham, there is / was a small theatre located there. It was a great space, but still didn’t have the ‘feeling’ that a proper theatre has.
One day the area will have a growing theatre, attracting both London and International acting and directorial talent.
As a new resident to ED, living very close to the proposed Picture House cinema venue, I’m delighted. As an ex-Brixtonian and Clapham Old Towner, I know how lovely and in keeping Picture Cinemas are to the area they’re in. I think it would be a great addition to the area.
Just drove past today after having lunch in Lordship Lane. I am soooo excited to see the development and to hear it may be open before Christmas !