At LMFF we are driven by three passions - adventure, community and our films! At Community Cinemas all three of these things combine which is why we get so excited about them. Last year a number of Community Cinemas and their Local Supporters or Film Clubs took advantage of our Community Pass and successfully raised funds on top of any hire or running costs.

So why are Community Cinemas so important?

The rise of multiplex cinemas may be coming to an end but in the late 20th century brought blockbusters and big-screen entertainment to the masses. But this shift came at a cost. Across the UK, traditional independent cinemas have all but disappeared, unable to compete with the multiplex model, which prioritises profit over accessibility. Rural areas and smaller towns, where large commercial ventures can’t thrive, were left without cinemas altogether, cutting residents off from cultural experiences and social connection.

GRAEME IN CROMARTY:

“Great support to help the running of the night. Such a great selection of films it was tough to narrow it down. Can’t wait to host again this year! With a nearly full house in our 35-seat cinema, we raised £95 and had a great night. Being able to download films next year will be fantastic. The pricing is an absolute steal."

Today, this legacy is evident nationwide. Vast swathes of the UK have no access to commercial cinemas, leaving many communities reliant on long, impractical journeys to enjoy a night at the movies. The multiplex’s focus on areas of high population density and young, affluent audiences has left rural and less wealthy regions behind.

Enter community cinema, a grassroots solution that’s breathing life back into underserved areas. Advances in digital technology have made high-quality screenings more affordable and accessible than ever, allowing small towns and villages to reclaim the magic of the big screen. Community cinemas aren’t just about films; they’re about people, bringing neighbours together to foster a sense of belonging and shared experience.

These days the chances are, wherever you live, there is a community cinema near you.

MARC IN THIRSK: 

"Hosting the LMFF films at The Ritz brought in over 100 attendees across two events, one a day time private-hire of the venue by our local running club and a cinema-hosted evening fundraiser for our local hospice raising almost £800. The challenge next year will be finding more groups for the content we missed out on."

Starting a community cinema is surprisingly achievable. All it takes is a suitable venue, a small team of enthusiastic locals, and some initial funding to cover costs like hall hire and screening licences. Organisations like Cinema For All provide guidance, equipment hire, and support in navigating grants, ensuring new ventures can get off the ground. Within 18 months, most community cinemas are fully equipped and self-sustaining, supported by membership schemes and ticket sales.

GORDON IN CALLANDER:

“The LMFF Community Pass was exceptional value for money, providing a perfect incentive to host our own night. At £50, it is accessible and well worth it for the range of films and resources. The event had fantastic feedback, raised £150 for our cause, and brought together about 50 people in a great community atmosphere.”

Across the UK, the growth of community cinemas is remarkable. From village halls to church spaces, local groups are stepping up to fill the void. Take Fife in Scotland, where five community cinemas have launched in recent years, including one that reopened the historic Regent cinema in Leven. Or consider England, where rural communities in counties like Cornwall and Shropshire have turned local halls into bustling hubs of film and conversation. These efforts are made possible by passionate volunteers, supportive networks, and the affordability of digital equipment.

BECKY IN CONONLEY:

“The LMFF film night was a huge success for our small village hall attracting 54 attendees, some of whom do not generally come to community events. We ended up raising £237 for our cause. The exciting range of films meant we had something for everyone, and along with the bar and the veggie stew we had a fantastic night

Understanding your tech options is key. A recent survey by Cinema For All revealed that while many community cinemas still rely on physical discs and players, 21% have transitioned to using downloadable links for screenings. This shift highlights the importance of being prepared for the growing reliance on digital formats as physical media becomes less available. If you’re unsure about streaming or digital downloads, know that resources and training are available. Cinema For All regularly offers guidance to help groups navigate this transition, including seminars on equipment and streaming at their annual Community Cinema Conference.

The survey also showed that equipment ages and financial situations vary widely across the sector. While some cinemas can afford upgrades, others operate with older gear or face financial constraints. The good news is that technical issues are reported infrequently, meaning newer equipment isn’t always an urgent need. However, affordable equipment hire and grants can make a big difference. If you’re struggling with equipment access, hubs like those in Edinburgh and Cumbria provide affordable solutions. Cinema For All can help you find the resources you need to get started and ensure your cinema thrives.

DAVID IN ULVERSTON:

“With 48 attendees and £182 raised, the event was a success. The film selection process sparked great debate and in the end we screened great variety—next time, we might separate nature and adventure into distinct film nights to better cater to our audience’s preferences. The event offers something different in our calendar.”

Community cinemas are more than just a creative solution—they’re a lifeline! They combat the isolation caused by the multiplex boom and the rise of streaming, offering cultural engagement and social connection in areas left behind by the commercial model. In a time when many of us watch films alone on small screens, gathering together in a shared space to laugh, cry, and connect feels more powerful—and more necessary—than ever.

JAMES IN BARMOUTH:

“Our volunteer-supported, not-for-profit cinema is dedicated to the social welfare of our local community, and hosting the LMFF film night was a wonderful way to bring people together. With 60 attendees, we raised £310, even though the festival runs in our quieter, out-of-season period. We’re excited for next year's adventures."

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