The head of the British Film Institute (BFI) has praised the government for announcing its £1.57 billion support package for the arts, saying it is “very welcome news for our independent cinemas.”
New relief funds have been made available to protect Britain’s museums, galleries and theatres, while independent cinemas are also eligible for the emergency grants and loans.
“This is very welcome news for our independent cinemas, who play a vital cultural role across the country,” said Ben Roberts, BFI chief executive.
“Today’s announcement will help many of them to reopen soon and safely for audiences and staff, and bring communities and film lovers together again. We are grateful to the Government for recognising the importance of our film culture”.
The pandemic has hit the film industry hard. While the government gave cinemas the green light to open from July 4, many have not been able to welcome guests. Cineworld cited a lack of new releases in its decision to delay openings by three weeks until July 31, after the likes of Christopher Nolan’s Tenet and Disney’s Mulan were delayed.
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Independent cinemas are the ones facing the biggest challenges though. Genesis in Whitechapel was the only independent in London open last weekend, with others unable to open under social distancing restrictions and some citing financial issues.
Rosie Greatorex, the manager of the Lexi in Kensal Rise, told the Standard last month that opening under the present restrictions would not make financial sense.
“It is likely that we will reopen while there are still some special measures in place, however opening with social distancing in place isn't commercially viable due to our small capacity,” she said.
For more information on the government arts package, head here.
