I'm sorry but I can't tell you what it is: Secret Cinema

Although we have spoken recently about cinemas, this time we would like to tell you about a very very special kind of cinema.

Unfortunately I can't tell you what it is. That's the point of Secret Cinema, nobody is supposed to know what they will be doing or which film they will be watching before they turn up. 

Have you ever heard of secret cinema? 

Secret Cinema is an organisation that stages cinema events around London and the UK, selling tickets to audiences without them knowing what film they're about to see. 

Events incorporate theatre, live music and food with the aim of recreating the setting of the film to be screened. 

So If all you want to do is watch a movie, Secret Cinema probably isn’t for you. Its audiences like to act out the movies as much as watch them. 

“It's about creating a social cinema experience where the audience can connect with each other online and at the event." said the Secret Cinema's founder, Fabien Riggall when described the idea behind this innovative concept. 

Since 2007, Secret Cinema has screened classics such as Lawrence of Arabia and Alien to a largely delighted and seriously large group of people who can interact beforehand with film-specific sets and installations and actors dressed as characters from the movie. 

In June Secret Cinema put on the shows of a production of Ridley Scott's Prometheus, launched in tandem with the movie’s national theatrical release by Twenty Century Fox. The shows were produced with the full endorsement from Scott.

The interactive performances invited audience members to step inside the film and create a unique experience and journey, far beyond a traditional 2D or 3D viewing experience.

The line between actor and audience member was blurred with Secret Cinema's online community – it has 60,000 plus Facebook followers – signing up to take part in the London events and then the screening of the film, the identity of which is only revealed on the night of the event.

In one interview released for The Guardian on the 5th July 2012 Fabien Riggall argued that “the traditional way of film distribution just isn't working any more”.

What do you think about this? Do you really think that the traditional cinema is almost dead? And what do you think the cinema of the future could be?

S.

Outdoor Movie Screenings in London - Experience Your Favourite Film Against a Unique Urban Backdrop.

Make the most of the balmy summer evenings and enjoy one of London’s outdoor movies in a unique urban setting.

Head east for the best London has to offer in outdoor screenings. With screenings five times a week, you will be sure to find something to suit your taste – the Queen of Hoxton offers an impressive selection of cult classics and Hollywood favourites… no wonder it’s a top choice for film buffs. Spend the day lounging on the lawny terrace with a glass of pimms, until the sun sets upon an urban backdrop. Grab a beer and a blanket and experience your favourite film from this unique urban setting. Wireless headphones are handed out, just to make sure you don’t miss anything. Buy tickets online or at the on-site box office, open from 8.30pm to 9.30pm May-August for £10; doors open at 8.30 and the film begins after 9pm when the sun fully sets.

Otherwise, check out Dalston Roof Park for some great outdoor screenings. Just on from Dalston Kingsland overground station is the Print House, home to Dalston Roof Park and its cultural offerings. Head upstairs to find a pop up bar, and an unrivalled summer programme, including productions from the Arcola theatre, outdoor film screenings and gigs as well as barbeques organized by local restaurants and foodies. Tickets are £10 on the door, or £7 when bought in advance – it’s a good idea to book early as the Midsummer Night Screenings are very popular amongst those in the know.

Dalston Roof Park

Every year, Film Four hosts a spectacular series of outdoor screenings at the beautiful Somerset House – and this year is especially brilliant. Highlights include the UK premiere of Walter Salles’s adaption of the beat classic, ‘On The Road’, a mont before it opens for general release. You can also enjoy ‘Paris, Texas’, ‘Apocalypse Now’, ‘Pretty in Pink’ and the latest film from the cult director Gaspar Noe, ‘Enter the Void’. Be sure to book early as tickets sell out like hot cakes – and for good reason – this is the highlight of every filmie’s summer! A cinematic masterpiece in a stunning setting… what more could you want? Bring a picnic and something to keep you warm when the sun starts to set. Tickets are priced between £14.50 and £22.50 and must be booked in advance.

Film Four Summer Screen at Somerset House, The Strand.

For something extra special, try the Luna Cinema and its pop up screens in some of the country’s most beautiful locations. Screens are dotted around London and the surrounding counties – try Leeds Castle in Kent for ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ or Battersea Park for a showing of ‘Back to the Future’; Kensington Palace for ‘The King’s Speech’ or Dulwich Park for ‘The Artist’. An outdoor screening at one of the Luna Cinema’s pop up screen will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience. Buy tickets online.

Luna Cinema: Pop up Screen by Tower Bridge. (Photo Credit: Michael Wharley)

Boutique London Lets have a number of fabulous apartments, all in prime locations across London. If you fancy doing something a little different with your summer evening, pop along to one of these outdoor movie screenings and make the most of the unique setting – our apartments in the West End are especially well located for outdoor viewing!