To see and not be seen

By Marcie MacLellan

The first movie I saw in the cinema was The Muppets Take Manhattan. As a long-time fan of Jim Henson’s characters, Miss Piggy in particular, I sat in the dark beside by sister mesmerised as the characters came to life on the big screen in the tiny old theatre. Of course, now-a-days, what defines a ‘big screen’ is infinitely bigger. In fact, many cinemas of the Leicester Square variety feel more like a theme park than a cosy place to sit back and enjoy. That’s why I still opt for those out of the way places that remind me of my first movie-going experience, where the theatre is dingy, the seats are packed, and the popcorn is always salty. Fortunately, in London, there’s no shortage of opportunities.

Roxy Bar and Screen

I’m not the first to review the Roxy Bar and Screen and I won’t be the last. It was recently reviewed by Shortlist as a ‘super-cool bar-cum-cinema’ and I tend to agree. I first came across it to get a glimpse of the super-odd musical-cum-cult-classic, the Wickerman. The upside of this place is that it makes watching films on a comfy sofa feel like a proper night out. The down side is the near riot-inducing frenzy that fighting for said sofas can cause.

Riverside Studios

Riverside Studios is a self-described arts and media centre in Hammersmith. More than just a cinema, it’s a place where art happens, comprising two main performance studios, a cinema, a TV studio and production galleries. I stumbled on it during a screening of a documentary I had worked on and continue to return, largely because it prides itself on hosting double-bills each and every night. It pays particular tribute to art-house British pictures and upcoming young directors, which makes a refreshing change from supporting yet another Sex and the City release. Another perk: after the film you can enjoy a glass of wine on the outdoor terrace overlooking the Thames.

The Tricycle Theatre

Another oldie but goodie is the Tricycle Theatre based in Kilburn. This cinema isn’t fancy, but that’s what makes it authentically great. With a 300-seat auditorium, it screens a wide range of culturally and historically significant films and has a particular penchant for documentaries of the political variety. After taking in some culture on the screen, you can observe even more by wandering through their art gallery after the show.

Kino Live

At Kino London’s monthly open-mic film nights, you won’t be getting a glimpse of the next BAFTA award-winning film. But you will be supporting the arts in a whole new way. This group of film lovers hosts the only film night of its kind in London. No longer than 6 minutes long, the films have no themes, no pre-selection and no restrictions, other than the fact that they have to include a live component. The live element can be dialogue, music or, well, anything really. Held at the Vibe Bar in Brick Lane, this concept is a blessing for up and coming film-makers like myself, and a worthy risk for the audience who never knows what to expect next. Except popcorn.