What Gets Me Inside the Cinema?
With so much to watch at home, what gets someone to pay even more to go into the cinema in 2022?
I am a film-lover who wants to enjoy films on the big screen and do so consistently. “Cinema is so expensive” is what I sometimes hear from my friends. However, I find if a film is hotly anticipated the funds from my friends are ready and allocated. I really love the cinema and want to spend more time there. I asked my friends Anna-Marie and Malik a few questions to see what makes them step inside a cinema and spend a couple of hours there. We are just three individuals but we hope through this micro-analysis we will realise how needed great content, consistent marketing and film events are in creating those cinematic memories.
Malik Dapaah (Filmmaker)
Last film you saw in the cinema?
The Batman.
Best time to go to the cinema?
Early evening.
Favourite Cinema in London?
Genesis Cinema.
Do you search for membership schemes and benefits?
Yes, I need discounts.
How do you find out about events?
Through friends and newsletters.
Are newsletters good for you?
Yes, very.
What do cinemas need to do more of?
Q&As for independent films.
Film you are looking forward to?
Thor: Love & Thunder.
Anna-Marie Descartes (@annamariedescartes)
Presenter and Founder of House Of Embrace
Last film you saw in the cinema?
Uncharted.
Best times to go to the cinema?
Early afternoon while people are still at work/school or late night after 8pm.
Your Favourite Cinema in London?
Empire Cinemas in Walthamstow. I have been going there for years so I have a lot of memories with a variety of people. It's usually not very busy as it's not as popular as other cinemas.
Best event you have been to?
I worked as press for the Creed 2 red carpet premiere in South Bank a few years ago. I got to interview Michael B. Jordan, Tessa Thompson and more which was super fun!
Membership benefits - do you need a discount?
Yes! If I sign up to be a member, I expect regular deals on tickets or food plus early access to exclusive film releases and experiences.
How do you find out about events?
Mostly through social media or by invitation. It's quite hard to keep up these days.
Are newsletters good for you?
I like newsletters if they offer valuable information or discounts I can use. They must be visually appealing too with images and not too much text - I want to know what the newsletter is about within 10 seconds of opening the email.
What do cinemas need to do more of?
Connect more with the local community and filmmakers. Would be great to see more independent events and talent being given the spotlight. Also more reasonable popcorn and drink deals!
Film I am looking forward to?
Jurassic World: Dominion
Caroline Wilson (@misscarolinelwilson)
Writer and Curator
Last film you saw in the cinema?
Spiderman
Best times to go to the cinema?
Lunchtime or late afternoon - I like to watch my films in peace.
Your Favourite Cinema in London?
Right now, I am feeling Stratford Westfield Vue. They have really handy early morning screenings.
Best Screening you have been to?
I have curated a lot of events but really enjoyed a screening last year of a Thai film called Bad Genius by a film collective called Not Another Film Club at a community festival called Leytonstone Loves Film.
Membership benefits - do you need a discount?
I find it hard to follow through with membership schemes but I like off-peak flat rates and discounts on snacks. I don’t want to sneak my snacks in!
How do you find out about events?
I mostly find out by newsletters, email and social media.
Are newsletters good for you?
Yes if they have good content in them.
What do cinemas need to do more of?
More events and activities.
Films I am looking forward to?
I definitely want to see the new Elvis film and need to see Everything Everywhere All At Once.
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