United Kingdom

London

Theatre

Movies

Girls In Film

The contemporary cinema scene is often dominated by multiplexes, spaces for mass consumption that can, at times, prioritise big-budget blockbusters over the nuanced, diverse voices of independent filmmaking. Independent cinemas give emerging filmmakers a platform and serve as vital cultural ecosystems. These venues have a strong sense of community, becoming hubs for dialogue and shared appreciation for the art of film.

 is a worldwide community built by—and for—female, non-binary, and trans creatives in the film industry. As an open and democratic collective, they bring together filmmakers, creatives, and cinema enthusiasts through dialogue, collaboration and creativity. 

In the face of rising rental costs, London’s indy cultural spots are in an increasingly tough position. Below, Girls in Film share their guide on where to go to support iconic cinemas in 

Hinge

Our local darling, Rio Cinema. A historic independent cinema in Dalston, offering a unique and vibrant movie-going experience with a mix of mainstream, independent, and art-house films. We especially love all the staff at the Rio. Rumour has it that feminist groups in the 80s would watch films topless in the basement.

Close-Up Cinema, down in Shoreditch, is a charming independent venue specializing in screening classic, cult, and international films in an intimate and cozy setting. There’s always something weird & wonderful on here. One of our favourite places to host premieres!

Maybe the last £5 cinema ticket in London? South London favourite PeckhamPlex is the budget-friendly cinema where you can enjoy the latest blockbusters & indie gems.

Genesis Cinema in Whitechapel is a stylish, independent cinema offering a mix of mainstream, indie, and cult films, with a cozy bar and comfy sofa screen that makes it the perfect spot for film lovers. Rumour has it, it might not be around much longer so get down quickly. 

The Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square is a beloved venue known for its midnight screenings, sing-alongs, and a wide variety of cult-following films, making it the ultimate haven for movie buffs and cinema enthusiasts. Another cinema currently under threat of closing — go and support!

ActOne Cinema in Ealing is an independent, not-for-profit community cinema, offering a range of screenings, from popular films to live events like ballet and opera, all while fostering a close-knit environment for local movie lovers.

London’s latest addition, The Arzner in Bermondsey, is a queer-focused cinema offering film screenings and live events in an intimate setting.

Similar Guides

From Topless Screenings to Musical Singalongs: The Girls in Film Cinema Guide 

FYI Chris

Since their debut release back in 2015, FYI Chris have unleashed a barrage of left-leaning club-focused music through some of the most respected labels on the scene. Although both being native Northerners, the two Chris' (Coupe and Watson) were brought together by a community of like-minded music heads in South London. Living here now, they share their favourite spots to hang out in Peckham.

Best burritos in Peckham? They may well be... Big flavours from the little Filipino food truck.

Some of the best food spots under one roof. Steamer is the undisputed dim sum and noodle lunch spot, Copeland Jerk also top tier munch and big ass portions.

One thing London does well is green space. Go fishing, have a BBQ (although getting a plot can be hectic). Usually some heated footy on a Sunday - it's got the lot.

No fuckin around, cheap tickets all day every day. Go to a horror film for peak experience. Fingers crossed they’ll be okay, I’m sure It’ll be rammed as soon as it is safe to open!

CD Base is a music spot in Holdrons Arcade, opposite Balamii. Get fresh mixtapes, afrobeat, dancehall, rap, R&B etc, catch a game of dominos (not sure what the buy in is). Maestro is a record shop with an extensive CD library too.

An OG Rye Wax food joint turned legit – some of the best tacos and nachos in London. DJ Morris whips up a fine cocktail too 😉

Another Rye Wax eatery that outgrew our basement, amazing authentic Vietnamese dishes from the nicest crew!

And if you pick up some munch from one of the spots above and want a place to cotch and get it down, why not visit the cats on Choumert Grove Car Park 🐈🐈.

Peckhamplex

Related Guides