With the unexpected closure of Premiere Cinemas, located in the Mercury Mall Romford in 2024, it seemed a blow for both independent cinemas and also independent filmmakers. This was not only a place where the nostalgic prices of yesteryear would undercut the mainstream cinemas, but it was also the home of the Romford Horror Film Festival and the Romford Film Festival.
Tragedy however, was soon turned into triumph, as Romford’s Festival founder Spencer Hawken purchased the building, and following a successful crowdfunding campaign, like a Phoenix rising from the ashes the cinema was reopened as Lumiere.
It seems quite appropriate that as part of the relaunch Lumiere will be hosting a very special screening of the documentary Kim’s Video. The film tells the incredible story of a filmmaker’s quest to find the legendary New York Video Shops collection of 55,000 tapes, which following the rise of DVDs fell into unscrupulous hands in Sicily.
The film was originally shown as part of the Romford Film Festival in 2024 but makes a welcome return to the Lumeire with a unique twist. In addition to a live Q&A with the filmmaker and Mr Kim following the movie, you will have a chance to swap some of your old VHS and Betamax tapes at a very special swap shop.
There will also be a special pop-up video shop to take you back in time, and the bar will be open.
Tickets will be selling fast, so book now to avoid disappointment.
The Mercury Shopping Centre – Kim’s Video – Special screening at Lumiere
Kim’s Video will be playing at the Lumiere on Tuesday, 29th April, with the event running from 6:40 pm until late.
Published in various websites, Philip is a reviewer who is best known for his interviews and media coverage of independent projects including; films, books, theatre and live events. Always on the lookout for something different to cover!
