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Edinburgh Filmhouse Reopens: Celluloid’s Back!

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Edinburgh Filmhouse Set to Reopen with a Focus on Celluloid Film Screenings

– The iconic Edinburgh Filmhouse is preparing to welcome back film enthusiasts in late June 2025, after a three-year closure and extensive refurbishment.The independent cinema plans to capitalize on the rising interest in “films on film” by showcasing 70mm versions of blockbusters like “Oppenheimer” and “The Brutalist,” promising a unique cinematic experience.

A Renaissance for Analogue Film

Andrew Simpson, the new executive director, emphasizes that audiences are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that connect them with the history of media. According to simpson, the experience of watching a film on celluloid cannot be replicated by digital cinema, highlighting the unique grade and color spectrum that analogue film offers.

The Filmhouse will feature four screens and aims to become a central hub for independent film festivals. Its collection of heritage film projectors-including 70mm, 35mm, 16mm, and 8mm formats-allows it to screen a vast range of films, both current and historic. The venue also possesses modern digital projectors, making it a versatile space for film lovers.

Community Support and Refurbishment

The reopening follows a significant community-led campaign to save the Filmhouse after its sudden closure in October 2022 due to financial difficulties. The “open the doors” campaign, supported by prominent figures such as Brian Cox and Dougray Scott, raised £324,000 and secured £1.5 million in funding from the UK government, Screen Scotland, and Creative Scotland.

The refurbished cinemas feature new seating, as well as a renovated bar and restaurant.Caledonian Heritable, a pub and restaurant chain, leases the building to the Filmhouse for the next 25 years.

The Broader Context: Film, Festivals and Community

The Filmhouse’s closure in 2022, along with the Belmont cinema in Aberdeen, sent shockwaves through the film community and led to the temporary suspension of the Edinburgh International Film Festival.However,the Belmont has since reopened,and the film festival was revived in 2023.

Simpson hopes that the triumphant reopening of the Filmhouse will inspire other community campaigns. He believes it demonstrates how local communities can rally to preserve what is important to them.

Film Formats at the Edinburgh Filmhouse
Film Format Details
70mm Offers the highest resolution and immersive experience.
35mm A standard format,widely used for classic films.
16mm Often used for documentaries and independent films.
8mm Home movie format, offering a vintage aesthetic.

Why Celluloid Still Matters

In an era dominated by digital technology, the resurgence of celluloid film speaks to a deeper appreciation for authenticity and tangible experiences. just as vinyl records have seen a revival, film offers unique visual qualities that digital formats struggle to replicate.

Did You Know? The Glasgow Film Theater saw higher box office numbers for “The Brutalist” in 70mm than during its initial opening weekend in digital format.

Moreover, preserving and celebrating film history is crucial for cultural heritage. Venues like the Edinburgh Filmhouse play a vital role in ensuring that future generations can experience cinema in its original form.

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