A campaign has been launched with the aim of saving a historic cinema near Edgware from closing down, and now one of the country’s top filmmakers has lent his backing to this bid.
The Phoenix Cinema has become a local landmark, thanks to the Art Deco design of the building. It is also a popular choice for people who want to see films that are more art-house than blockbuster. It operates as a community venue run by the Phoenix Cinema Trust charity, but is in urgent need of £50,000 to remain open, with film director Ken Loach backing this campaign.
He joins Mark Kermode and Benedict Cumberbatch as patrons of the cinema, which puts together events for charities and kids as well as screening films. Cinemas often use printing services based in the local area to provide them with tickets and programmes.
A decision was made last year to retain the independence of the cinema instead of selling it to the Curzon chain and it is hoped the backing of famous faces like Loach will attract donors. Speaking to Times Series, he said:
“The Phoenix, one of the oldest cinemas in the country, has a unique identity which combines quality programming with education and community activities for all ages.”
The venue was saved by the Trust 34 years ago, but this organisation has encountered financial difficulties recently.