The Other Cinema Presents Brief Encounter

A screening of David Lean's Brief Encounter in one of London's historic entertainment halls made for a Valentine's date with a difference.

By Grace Browne on Monday 20th February, 2012

Queues snaked around the corners of the Troxy in Limehouse, east London in anticipation of the hottest Valentine’s ticket in town. An effective prescription for bored capital couples desperately seeking something new on February 14th, Future Cinema applied their well-honed magic to transport patrons to the golden age of film.

This time round, the destination was the movie mania of the 40s with an immersive showing of Brief Encounter. No detail was spared, from the period-precision dress of the ushers to the traditional popcorn stands, all encased within the walls of this fabulous Art Deco space.

The Troxy was showing off. Vibrant pinks and blues illuminated the architectural splendor of a venue comfortably hosting a 1,000 strong audience, who either sunk into their cinema seats or cavorted with fellow couples on round tables. Erected in 1933 by George Coles, the Troxy was not only the largest cinema space of its time, it has played host to live performances from some of the 20th century’s big names: Vera Lynn, Clark Gable and the Andrews Sisters have all taken stage at one time or another.

It was pleasing, therefore, to see its return to authentic 20th century entertainment, particularly as Mecca Bingo had their claws on proceedings for the previous decade. The long shots and slow pans of early filming, coupled with clipped 40s phrasing, kept the crowd collectively tickled, enthralled, silenced ‘where appropriate’ throughout. It felt powerful to be part of such a large, well-dressed and appreciative crowd.

The light-hearted, if sometimes a little incongruous, live acts kept things upbeat - a motley crew of Pearly Kings emblazoned in the pearl buttons of old stole the show by some yards. And for those with energy post popcorn and Hollywood close, Jazz FM’s Peppermint Candy duo drew couples to the dance floor with some choice classics for partying pairs to try out their footwork. Another Future Cinema triumph.

Brief Enounter was the launch event from The Cinema, a sister company of Future cinema and Secret Cinema. For details of their upcoming screenings visit theothercinema.org