Welcome to Cinema at the Heart of the Community

FILM CLUB

“Oh how Shakespeare would have loved cinema!”
― Derek Jarman

THE BLOCK CINEMA FILM CLUB screens a variety of films throughout the year from classics to contemporary greats and premieres.  Twenty-four films, showcasing the best in cinema. All are welcome to join – pick up an annual membership today.  

BLOCK CINEMA FILM CLUB NEWS

 

We offer a range of memberships, all offering great value as we offer 24 screenings plus extras! For more information, visit the Film Club page and the FAQs section:  https://blockcinema.org/film-club-and-blog/

You’ll also find details of the first two films we’re screening.

Membership is by subscription, and joining our Film Club is easy! Visit  https://blockcinema.org/store/

Or, come along to a Film Club screening and pay for the night.

Once you’ve joined, you’ll receive exclusive updates on upcoming screenings, special events, and film-related news. 

Our Film Club is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow film lovers, explore different genres, and deepen your appreciation for the art of cinema. Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a die-hard film buff, we welcome everyone to join us on this cinematic journey.

Don’t miss out on the excitement! Join Film Club and follow us on social media to stay updated on all the latest Film Club news and events.

See you at the movies!

When you join our Film Club, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits, including:

  • Twice-Monthly Screenings: Every two weeks, we’ll showcase a carefully selected film that will leave you inspired and entertained.
  • Guest Speakers: Get the chance to hear from industry professionals, filmmakers, and experts who will share their insights and perspectives.
  • Discussions: Engage in meaningful conversations with fellow members about the films we screen, exploring different interpretations, themes, and artistic techniques.
  • Opportunity to Vote: Have a say in our film selection process by participating in polls and voting for the movies you want to see on our screening schedule.
  • Monthly newsletter.
  • Exclusive Events: Gain priority access to special events like Q&A sessions, quizzes, and film-related workshops.
  • Insider News: Stay informed with the latest film-related news, updates, and announcements exclusive to our Film Club members.

Joining our Film Club is not just about watching movies; it’s about forming connections, expanding your cinematic horizons, and being part of a vibrant community of film enthusiasts.

To unlock all these incredible benefits, all we ask is for you to become a member of The Block Film Club by subscribing annually. Your subscription not only supports our passion for promoting the magic of cinema but also helps us bring you more amazing film experiences throughout the year.

In addition – your subscription will support film-related community projects and help the next generation of filmmakers.

Still undecided?  Why not buy a taster ticket for £10? – a taster ticket lets you watch one film club film, and you can decide whether it’s for you. 

Great Films Coming Your Way

Coming 2024, Film Club has curated some of the greatest films from home and abroad, past and present, showcasing the best directors and sublime scripts.  Please check our Film Club FAQs section below.  Sometimes, we may alter screenings and times, so please always check here for updates.

THE ASCENT

The Ascent (Russia/Ukraine) 12

Director(s) Larisa Shepitko 

Production Year 1977 

🎥 The Ascent showcases the talent of Ukrainian director  Larisa Shepitko, who died tragically young (41)  in a car crash along with her film crew in 1979.

The Ascent is a riveting and thought-provoking film set against the backdrop of World War II.

Two Soviet partisans leave their starving band to get supplies from a nearby farm. The Germans have reached the farm first, so the pair must go on a journey deep into occupied territory, a voyage that will also take them deep into their souls.

 

Wednesday, 3 April 2024

Doors 7 PM; Film 7.30 PM

Certificate 12

WATCH TRAILER 

QUATERMASS AND THE PIT

Quatermass and the Pit (UK)

Director(s) Roy Ward Baker 

Production Year 1967 

🎥 A Hammer classic. When prehistoric skeletons are discovered during an expansion of the London Underground, palaeontologist Matthew Roney (James Donald) believes them to be remnants of early man. But the strange metal object found with them is tougher to explain, and Professor Bernard Quatermass (Andrew Keir) thinks it is evidence that the creatures came from space.

More digging in the area reveals the corpses of actual Martians and a strange energy field that sends London into a panic.

Nigel Kneale, Quatermass’s creator, wrote intelligent, disturbing sci-fi. The film, based on a successful five-part BBC serial Kneale wrote, was made in the aftermath of the Second World War and an emerging Cold War. It asks discomforting questions about human nature and the core of our being.  Are we angels or savages?  Rejecting the comfortable narratives of most sci-fi, Kneale’s film will have you thinking long after its screening.  Brave cinema. 

Wednesday, 24 April 2024

Doors 7 PM; Film 7.30 PM

Certificate 12A

FILM CLUB MEMBERSHIP FEES

MEMBERSHIP entitles you to attend 24 screenings of films that showcase the best of cinema from around the world, past and present. Other benefits include a monthly newsletter and priority booking to film premieres and other events. 

The Film Club offers three membership options: Single, Joint, and Student. Here are the fees for each option:

  1. Single Membership:
    • Annual Fee: £38
    • One-off registration Fee: £10.00
  2. Joint Membership:
    • Annual Fee: £70
    • One-off registration Fee: £15.00
  3. Student Membership:
    • Annual Fee: £20
    • One-off registration Fee: £5.00

Please note that there is a guest fee of £10 for non-members who wish to attend Film Club screenings. Members can invite the same guest to a film club screening once per their membership year.

If you want to come along and see if the film club is for you, why not buy a ‘taster ticket’ (£10) and give us a try?

Join the Film Club today and immerse yourself in a world of captivating cinema!

For further information, email: filmclub@blockcinema.org

Frequently Asked Questions

BECOME A MEMBER

Do I need to pay an annual subscription to join The Block Film Club?

Yes – you can subscribe from this site.

You can also pay for a subscription at the cinema: we accept cash, credit or debit cards.  

What do you mean by an annual subscription?

Annual means your subscription runs for twelve months from the date you joined. For instance, if you joined in February, your membership would remain valid until the end of February of the following year. 

Do volunteers pay an annual subscription?

Yes, volunteers pay the same subscription as everyone else. 

How old do I need to be to join ?

Eighteen and over. 

What is the registration fee for?

We charge a one-time registration fee to cover administration and the cost of your membership card.

Does Membership mean I watch the cinema screenings for free?

The cinema is separate from the film club and you still need to pay to watch the films it screens.  Films shown at the Film Club will not be screened at the cinema for two years.  

Can I bring a guest?

Yes! You can bring one guest, and they will need to pay for admission. You can only invite the same guest once.

As this is a member’s club, you must sign them in and verify they will follow our rules. The guest needs to provide their name and contact details.

Do you offer joint memberships and student memberships?

Yes.  We offer both.  Students will pay a reduced membership and registration fee once they have produced proof of their studies.  

What kind of films does the Film Club screen?

We screen films that showcase the best of cinema, past and present, worldwide. 

Is access to the cinema wheelchair and buggy friendly?

Yes, the entrance is accesible for both.

Does the ticket include refreshments?

Yes!  Refreshments are included in your subscription and are tea, coffee, cordial, fruit juice, biscuits and cake.  Oh, and popcorn!  Some people kindly bring cake to share too!

Popcorn, biscuits and cakes are subject to a ‘fair usage’ policy of two items per person  – extra refreshments can be purchased.  

No limit is set on tea, coffee and cordial. 

Is the seating area sloping?

Seating is all on one level, but the chairs are separate, allowing you to reposition them so you have an unrestricted view. Handy if the local basketball team are sitting in front of you! Also, the film is screened high, so you can see that crisp, clear image on the wall without restriction.

Can I bring or buy alcohol at the cinema?

At present, no, but we do review our policy regularly, and this may change.

Are the films you show subtitled and/or dubbed?

English language films are not subtitled.  Non-English language films are.

Unless specified, we screen the film in its native language to give a full flavour of its context and culture. 

 

Will there be opportunities to discuss the films?

Yes, we welcome discussion after the film.  Understandably, we may be unable to discuss some of the longer films immediately, but we would factor them into our next screening, where you can discuss it then. 

Are there intervals?

For the longer films, there is often a short interval.  We will inform you if there will be an interval before we screen. 

What is the picture and sound like?

We screen all films against a large white wall so the screen size is very big and very wide like in any other cinema. We show all our films in high definition. We use surround sound with speakers positioned around the room – it all makes for a great immersive experience.  

Can groups hire the cinema for a private viewing?

Yes! Contact us with your requirements.

Is the cinema dog friendly?

Provided your doggy is happy in human company and in the company of other doggies and  loud sounds don’t bother them, they are welcome!  Assistance dogs are always welcome. 

What is your pricing policy?

For Thursday cinema pricing information, please refer to the separate FAQs page.  The film club is subscription only.

How do I volunteer?

We welcome volunteers! If you fancy volunteering, fill out a contact form below with your details (at this website) or you can contact Stephen directly on 07549789747 or email stephen@blockcinema.org.

Do you have toilets?

We have one, unisex toilet. 

If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact us.

Great Cinema Coming Your Way

For 2024, we have curated some of the greatest films from home and abroad, past and present, showcasing the best directors and sublime scripts.

All the films make great springboards for discussion – for example, what are you willing to do to achieve your dreams? (Faust, 1926). Would you whistleblow on the corrupt company you work for and risk your health, home and family? (The Insider, 1999). What motivates you and those who follow you – and how far will you go? (Aguirre, The Wrath of God, 1972). Ingratitude and foolishness (Ran, 1985) or examining our own heart of darkness (Apocalypse Now, (1979).

Join us as we screen some hidden gems and performers, including Will Hay in Oh Mr Porter (1937). Also, documentaries on film and filmmaking – for example, the work of Alfred Hitchcock in My Name is Alfred Hitchcock (2022) and the Edwardian world of Mitchell and Kenyon (2004).

After most screenings, there will be an opportunity to discuss the film.

What is there not to like?

Pick up a membership and immerse yourself in a year of wonderful films.

Joining our Film Club is easy! Simply send an email to info@blockcinema.org with the subject line “Film Club Membership” and include your name and contact information. Once you’re a member, you’ll receive exclusive updates on upcoming screenings, special events, and film-related news.

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