Wisbech cinema is 'virtually' open for area's film lovers

A Fenland cinema is working hard to keep film fanatics entertained until it is able to reopen.

The long-awaited reopening of Wisbech’s Luxe Cinema is hoped to take place on May 21, but in the mean time a host of films have been made available to watch at home.

The cinema’s virtual screenings have gone down a storm with film fans across the area, giving them a chance to watch flicks they might not normally have access to.

Manager Nathan Smith said: “The virtual screenings are a good revenue stream for us when we really need every penny we can get.

“They have given us the opportunity to diversify what we offer in the short term, while championing smaller films alongside the huge blockbuster titles - I believe this is what indie cinemas should be doing.

“In the long term the virtual screenings offer something to those who aren’t comfortable with returning to the cinema at the moment - not everyone will want to come back just yet.”

The virtual screenings have included a wide variety of films and there is a distinct focus on showcasing independent, international and documentary titles along with some possible future cult-classics.

Nathan has also been encouraging viewers to discuss the films online.

He said: “I think with lockdown people have been looking at new things and it really opens up new conversations as well.

“What people forget is that a lot of people end up talking to people they may never have met as they leave the cinema. They discuss the film and it’s another element of social interaction which is missed.

“We have also been speaking to people through messages and emails - I’ve always been keen to encourage talking about films.

“One of the biggest thrills for me as a cinema manager is presenting exciting, challenging and thought-provoking films to our guests and I am overjoyed that we are able to offer up multiple award-winning titles to enjoy from home.”

Although the cinema has been closed since December due to lockdown restrictions, the reopening date is flying in..

Nathan said: “As soon as we are able to open and do it safely we will. We want to get open as soon as possible so that people are about to lose themselves in a good film for a few hours.

“For a lot of people it’s that escapism and not being stuck in a 24 hour rolling news cycle or social media doom scrolling.”

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