london alternative cinema

While we all love going to the cinema to watch the latest blockbuster releases (we highly recommend The Dark Knight Rises!) in the comfort of the standard cinema space, there are whole new worlds in which you can have that cinema experience. 

Secret Cinema

A cinema community of professionals who want to bring the cinema experience to life. Literally. They set up monthly gatherings at specified locations. You will arrive as if you were on the set, costumes optional! The actors are well trained and are really into their roles, making you feel like the scenario is a reality. Once watching the film you will pick up on references no matter how small based on what you have experienced beforehand. We went to the Prometheus edition of this venture, and while the actual screening of the film was a disappointment, the build-up was well created and executed. This has huge potential to cover classic films, and for those of you who always have wanted to be part of the action; this is the thing for you. 

Hypersleep

Actors are very dynamic in their interaction with the crowd

Life-size props fill the space

Rooftop Film Club

The top of the Queen of Hoxton, a trendy bar on the border of Liverpool Street and Shoreditch, lies the Rooftop Cinema Club. Here at the brink of dusk is another more memorable cinema experience. Wireless noise-cancelling headphones and a powerful projector allow clear audio and vision even in the early evening. While blockbusters arn't necessarily shown here, it's a great way of re-watching the classics. We saw Pan's Labyrinth, and I didn't even need to wear my glasses for the subtitles. The staff are very friendly and there are also places to get popcorn and snacks, even a blanket for those not layered up. It seems that only severe weather conditions can stop the show from rolling on.