100th Spotlight: Cinema Social Club

As part of our celebrations of 100 years of community cinema, we're spotlighting the amazing work being done by community cinemas and film societies across the UK! We recently spoke to the team from Cinema Social Club in Liverpool about their work and the difference volunteer-led cinema can make in communities.

Can you tell us a little bit about your community cinema and how it was formed?

Cinema Social Club was founded in 2022 with a mission to use film as a catalyst for meaningful conversations on social and political issues. We create a welcoming space where people can enjoy a drink, connect, and share reflections inspired by cinema. Based in Liverpool, we host regular screenings and discussions at the Museum of Liverpool. Cinema Social Club is more than a cinema—it’s a cultural hub that brings people together through film, dialogue, and shared experience.

We were recognised at the Film Society of the Year Awards, receiving commendations in three categories in 2024 (Best New Society of the Year, Best Single Event, and the Film Discovery Award), and a further commendation in 2025 for Best Single Event.

What kind of films do you screen?

Our programming showcases a diverse range of films—including UK, Polish, and wider European cinema, documentaries, and independent productions—and is often accompanied by guest speakers such as directors, actors, activists, critics, politicians, community leaders, and academics. These sessions enable deep engagement, cultural exchange, and networking opportunities that go beyond traditional film screenings.

What are some of the challenges you have faced over the years and how have you overcome them?

One of our main challenges has been getting responses from filmmakers and distributors—especially when films aren't licensed in the UK, which often made screening rights costly or unavailable. To overcome this, we began inviting alternative guest speakers such as academics, activists, and local community leaders to enrich our discussions. We’ve also faced difficulties finding suitable, budget-friendly venues and securing consistent funding. Despite these challenges, we’ve built strong partnerships with local institutions like Museum of Liverpool and adapted our programming to remain creative, accessible, and sustainable.

How has your organisation impacted the community?

Cinema Social Club works with a diverse team of curators, guest speakers, and partner organisations, including critics and local representatives and leaders. Where possible, we invite filmmakers such as Agnieszka Holland to join Q&As, giving audiences rare access to industry insights and inspiring aspiring filmmakers from all backgrounds.

Audiences consistently praise our after-film discussions, interesting programming, and friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Screenings are held in step-free, central venues with affordable pricing, and we also run a prize draw to engage attendees. We are introducing captioned screenings and pre-event content warnings, and continually adapt based on audience feedback.

What do you think the future of community cinema looks like?

The future of community cinema will focus on connection and engagement—with both people and place—through Q&As, discussions, and other unique social experiences. Rather than competing with streaming services, community cinemas can thrive by offering what streaming cannot: shared human connection, curated programming, and a strong sense of local culture. They will continue to play a critical role in revitalizing communities, turning cinema into a space for dialogue, creativity, and meaningful social experiences.

How does it feel to be part of the legacy of 100 years of community cinema?

Our work emphasises the cultural, educational, and social role of cinema, bringing communities together and celebrating stories that might otherwise go unseen. Knowing that community cinema has played a vital role for a century makes us proud to be part of its ongoing story and future.