FILM CLUB AT CHICHESTER CINEMA.
We are asking for funding for Chichester Cinema's Film Club which provides a safe and inclusive social environment for young adults from 18-25 to enjoy the entertainment of film. We currently meet once a month screening the most iconic movies of all time, with film chat and pizza prior to the film.
As we know, Covid had, and still has, a deep impact on the younger generation. The severe restrictions that were placed upon them are still having an impact on their lives; for many around this age range, three of their formative years were marred by isolation, anxiety, instability, and a lack of socialising, this has now become the norm.
Young adults are less willing to enjoy going out either to the pub, the cinema, or the usual pastimes for people of that age. They utilise streaming services to watch film usually on their own, which only amplifies the isolation. Money also plays a large part in this issue; most social activities are now cost-prohibitive for many, due to the cost of living crisis.
Cinemas and film are a means of escapism, relaxation, and entertainment; they are also a form of education covering many genres and subjects. They are a catalyst for debate, and film culture is a form of art in itself. It is a location where groups can meet and share a common interest and social experience. In the short time we have been running the club, we have seen friendships being forged and confidence grow, especially for those who struggle with social anxiety, or are neurodiverse.
We want to grow this new young cinematic community, and as it evolves, create a young programmers group where they can choose their own films, learn new skills such as marketing, programming, projection, and inspire their creativity, communication, and confidence. They will then be able to take, apply and utilise all of these skills in their future careers.
The funding will help subsidise the the club, and enable us to break-even with these screenings.
A BIT ABOUT US.
Our not-for-profit independent cinema has been an enduring presence within Chichester for over 40 years. We are a wonderful provider of independent world cinema, but the cinema is also a platform for our charitable work.
OUR CHARITABLE AIMS:
*Improving well-being and health and building stronger local community links by supporting vulnerable people such as the elderly, disabled and those unable to access mainstream cinemas through our community support and study programmes. We do this by working with local charities who support adults with learning difficulties with day-care and supported living, and for children with additional needs and disabilities. Also, we work with a Women's Centre, and a local hotel supporting newly arrived asylum-seeking families.
*Supporting young people in education, through a curriculum outreach and education programme
*Supporting and providing social entertainment for young adults in an inclusive and safe environment through a monthly Film Club screening.
* We are a community hub and for many of our elderly patrons, we are a lifeline, especially those who live alone, are isolated due to illness or disability and suffer from a social disconnect within our community.
OUR MISSION
To programme and deliver the widest range of film and performance events from around the world in a welcoming and inclusive way, bringing people together, encouraging debate and enabling the community to see and understand the world through different eyes. In doing so, we broaden the appeal and appreciation of independent cinema which is central to cultural life in Chichester and beyond.