Community-led independent and world cinema programme launched for Wrexham

73 Cinema is launching in Wrexham town centre, and has unveiled its first selection of showings along with a showcase opportunity for filmmakers.

The community-led cinema programme will screen a different film, providing access to independent and world cinema, from classics to new releases as well as in-competition short films, Q&As and more at screenings.

The programme includes a huge variety of films and events, with something for everyone. The opening film will be Gruff Rhys’ ‘American Interior’, followed by new releases including Claire Denis’ ‘High Life’ & the Aretha Franklin documentary ‘Amazing Grace’.

A special Halloween screening of ’28 Days Later’ will take place on 31st October and in November the 1954 version of ‘A Star is Born’ starring Judy Garland will be specially screened as part of the 2019 BFI Musicals Season.

The cinema will run every other Thursday from September until Christmas and as part of each screening event they will showcase a selection of in-competition short films. An awards ceremony for the film-shorts will take place during the final screening – with filmmakers able to submit their films now for inclusion – more details here. Each selected filmmaker will receive a complimentary ticket to their screening event, and will also be offered the opportunity to introduce their film to the audience.

Each evening will see the doors open at 6pm, with the short film showcase at 6:30pm and then 7pm feature film start – with aftershow events also on the cards.

Tickets for every event are available to purchase now at 73cinema.com Alternatively they can be purchased on the door (subject to availability) or reserved at Tŷ Pawb shop.

There is also a full season pass available, allowing those that wish to attend everything to save 25%.

We asked founder Robert Corcoran about his motivation and thoughts behind the project, and why Wrexham was the choice for the location. Rob told us, “Personally I’m fascinated by the history of cinema in Wrexham and in preparation for this project I spent a long time going over available archives from the Wrexham Archives and Local Studies Service, Wrexham Leader, Wrexham History and others. From The Majestic to The Glynn, Empire, Odeon, Vogue, Hippodrome – it’s a really interesting look into the cultural changes that Wrexham has undergone over the past century.

“When my Nan was evacuated from Liverpool to Wrexham the first place she was taken was the Majestic (now the Elihu Yale Wetherspoons) – so I feel personally linked to them in a strong way too.”

“I’m a producer for 73 Degree Films in Wrexham and as well as our film and media work It’s been a dream of ours for a long time to establish an independent and world cinema programme here. I think it’s incredibly important that people in Wrexham have access to interesting and culturally diverse cinema.

“The project is non-profit any additional money raised goes back into supporting our community projects like this one. We’re kicking off with Gruff Rhys’ ‘American Interior’ which I hope might inspire people to check out what we’re doing and watch some films they might otherwise never have seen.

“After working with FOCUS Wales to successfully establish a new film festival for Wrexham in May this year, I think the addition of 73 Cinema in Autumn/Winter will provide audiences here with year-round access to some amazing films and events. Working with Film Hub Wales, Watch Africa Cymru, Cinema Golau and many others we’re excited to continue this momentum and help to inspire people through the medium of film.”

Screening dates 2019:

Thursday 5th September – ‘American Interior’ + event TBC.
Thursday 19th September – ‘High Life’

Black History Month Screenings in partnership with Watch Africa Cymru & Cinema Golau and supported by CLPW, Race Council Cymru, Vasco de Gama, Flavor of Portugal & Kid’s World:
Thursday 3rd October – ‘Njinga Rainha de Angola’ + Q&A.
Thursday 17th October – ‘Sorry to Bother You’.

Special Halloween screening supported by Dectel Construction & Chevron Clothing
Thursday 31st October – ’28 Days Later’ + event TBA.

Screening supported by National Theatre Wales
Thursday 14th November – ‘Dark Days’.

Screening as part of the 2019 BFI Musicals Season:
Thursday 28th November – ‘A Star is Born’ + event TBA

Final film:
Thursday 12th December – ‘Amazing Grace’ + event TBA.

As with any good launch there is a range of socials to get following:
Facebook: http://facebook.com/73cinema
Twitter: http://twitter.com/73cinema
Instagram: http://instagram.com/73cinema