Last year, the London-wide Scala Forever film season proved a huge success with the capital’s film fanatical populace and this year stretches its reach with follow-up fest Scala Beyond. This brand new six-week season (taking place from 18 August-29 September) will celebrate all forms of cinema nationwide, from Newcastle to Brighton, in venues as varied as pop-up cinemas, local film clubs and even venturing into schools and homes.
The greatest success and strength of the Scala seasons is the diverse range of film and exhibitors they embrace. At Scala Beyond’s heart is its audience-focused approach that understands why people love film and cinema. The events will be open to all, and even include a Home Cinema Day on 1 September, supported by both Film4 and MovieMail. The idea is simple enough – get a movie, get some friends round, and then tweet about your experience. This idea encapsulates the inclusive spirit of the season; that film is truly for one and all to enjoy.
With over 100 different exhibitors and 250 films, Scala Beyond boasts being one of the largest film events in the UK. Its spiritual home, South London’s cosy Roxy Bar & Screen, will return with old favourites such as FilmBar70, screening everything from Hollywood follies to VHS heroes. There are a host of great nights available across the capital, including the return of Alex Kidd with his second ‘Night of the Trailers’. Nomad Cinema, Portobello Pop-Up and fan favourite Prince Charles are also involved, adding to an already strong programme.
However, Scala Beyond is not an entirely London-centric event, with Birmingham’s Flatpack Festival and Bristol’s Encounters also along for the ride, not to mention events in Manchester, Brighton, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Hundreds of cult film screenings will be held across the UK, all of which encourage cinemagoers to break from the norm of the multiplex and discover their local film culture.
Scala Beyond understands what is truly important about film – screenings shouldn’t just be about the end product, different people like different things and, as their manifesto states, that this land must be filled with cinemas. The six-week season shines a spotlight on the people and organisations who keep independent exhibition in the UK alive and thriving.
For more info on Scala Beyond and full programme listings, visit scalabeyond.com.