Independent Cinema means something different to all of us. To some an independent cinema offers a change from the commercial multiplex cinemas of the high street filled with nothing other than blockbusters. For others it is an escape from the real world for a short period of time to enjoy the golden age of Hollywood in a nostalgic setting. Of course, while the best independent cinema in Birmingham is currently closed awaiting its Hollywood ending there are still plenty of independent cinemas out there nearby that are worth stepping out for.
Mockingbird Cinema – Digbeth
The Mockingbird cinema is a well-established cinema located in the iconic Custard Factory in Digbeth that has been waving a flag for independent cinema for some time. A hugely active cinema with even more varied listings, this cinema has a big community feel about it and hosts great events from classic film nights with wine to showings of cult TV shows with star guests such as Life on Mars with Dean Andrews. The Late-Night Mysyery Film Club is like a lucky dip bag on steroids, happening most Friday nights and at the cost of just 95p – no that’s not a typo – there’s no clues until the opening credits roll as to what you’ve got!
https://mockingbirdcinema.com/MockingbirdCinema.dll/Home
The Reel Cinema – Quinton
A new personal favourite of mine, why? Well its no Electric Cinema but this small piece of cinema history is resilient, friendly, and like a home from home – sound familiar? The Reel Cinema in Quinton is one of 16 owned by the independent cinema chain and like our beloved Electric has had to fight off demolition during its time. Opened as The Danilo in 1939 this Reel Cinema has always operated as a cinema and has gorgeous original art deco features throughout the large building. While the variety of films on offer here is not as varied as other independent cinemas this one is great for a budget friendly day out and has free parking.
https://reelcinemas.co.uk/our-cinemas/quinton
The Royal – Sutton Coldfield
The Royal is now a stunning Grade II listed restored art deco cinema located in Sutton Coldfield; until recently operating as an Empire Cinema this original building has been completely restored by new owners PDJ Cinemas returning the interior to that of its original state. The interior now matches its glorious 1930s exterior and oozes glamour with a bar area straight out of a Fred and Ginger film and a grand welcoming foyer. The films currently on offer are the latest releases and they have listed a number of Christmas classics for the upcoming period. Little touches such as the popcorn boxes add a touch of class to a cinema that like our lovely little Electric cinema making going to watch a film a unique and memorable experience.
Futurist Cinema – Kidderminster
Located on Green Street this cinema has a passionate community behind it. Formerly a Reel Cinema until being closed in 2020 due to Covid this cosy cinema was saved by Crowdfunding and reopened as Lume Cinema. It has since transformed once again back in July this year since then a name change and refurb under new management has given this independent cinema a new lease of life. Located in an historic warehouse this cinema offers a variety of films and event evenings and also supports local businesses such as Bewdley Brewery where you can buy their ales and spirits from the new bar in the foyer.
https://futuristcinema.uk/FuturistCinema.dll/Home
The MAC – Cannon Hill Park
The Midlands Arts Centre is a vast and grand venue that’s home to so much more than just film. The MAC is essentially an all-you-can-eat buffet of the arts all in one location. The MAC’s film listings are also so varied its probably easier to list what they don’t show than what they do and all at a fair ticket price too. Opened in 1962 and refurbished in 2010 the MAC is a very modern venue with a lot of history within its walls, set in the stunning surroundings of Cannon Hill Park. After a walk through the gorgeous park and catching a film why round off the day with an exhibition, or attend a talk or take in some live music too.
The Light – Walsall
This cinema certainly lives up to its name and combines the advantages of independent cinema with the feel of a modern multiplex. It’s the best of both worlds and offers fantastic food and drink alongside a good range of film listings from cult classics such as Bladerunner to event cinema such as Van Gogh - Poets and Lovers. The Light makes an evening at the cinema feel more like going out-out rather than just out!
https://walsall.thelight.co.uk/
Stirchley Open Cinema – Stirchley
The Stirchley Open Cinema is a cinema unlike any other, based at – but not limited to – Stirchley Baths this is a cinema run by a community of film enthusiasts who’s love of film is infectious. They’re listings are as eccentric as the cinema set-up itself. In addition to their ‘Friday Features’ showing of mainstream films they also show cult classics, arthouse and foreign films and documentaries in equally eclectic settings. Working alongside Flatpack and Film Hub West Midlands since its creation back in 2018 the SOC Film and Food Festival is back for 2024 running from October 25th to November 28th and is guaranteed to make a trip to the cinema an unforgettable experience.
