Independent cinema

[Freddy]

This was taken from a larger article on old cinemas in the Saturday Telegraph Magazine 6th Nov.
I have been unable to access it fully from their on line web site so here is the latter part regarding the distributer/independent situation


Of the cinemas featured here, the Dome in Worthing serves 200,000 people, has built a sofa bar, extra screen and function room, and has sucÂÂ*cessfully applied for a Heritage Lottery Grant. The Coliseum in Porthmadog (population about 4,000) can't afford such additions, has lost custom to the Llandudno multiplex, and fears for its future.
'You have to ask yourselves if these cinemas are commercially viable,' says Peter Buckingham, the head of distribution and exhibition at the UK Film Council, which is rolling out a digital screening proÂÂ*gramme in independent cinemas across the country. 'Often there's a reason why they're such a labour of love, why they shut, and struggle along day to day. They may not offer the experience that people want when they go to the cinema now.' He also points out that listing can restrict physical changes and that new disability requirements may be a problem for old buildings with stairs and balconies.
Under the new digital scheme, independent cinemas can apply for digital projectors funded by a Film Council-led consortium. The projector is theirs for four years, at low rent, on the condiÂÂ*tion that they broaden their programming beyond the mainstream. While it won't loosen the grip of the distributors - who, independents claim, restrict their access to new releases or charge cripÂÂ*pling commissions - it will bring flexibility. Without the hassle of transporting expensive prints, small cinemas will be able to show a film for a single night. They will be able to branch out - into sporting events, say, or concerts - beyond 35mm films. 'We'll be looking for areas where there's currently no provision,' Buckingham says. 'Heritage cinemas, market towns, whatever. It won't be based on architectural beauty, though. It's about getting audiences for films.' Pass the Revels. ¦

regards
Freddy