An exciting new initiative which aims to increase access to British independent and world cinema in areas where there is otherwise little or no film provision will bring the magic of the big screen to community venues in parts of Rhondda RCT, Ebbw Vale and Bridgend over the next six months, offering something for all members of the family.

Delivered in Wales by Zoom Cymru and Moviola, the project was developed by Film Hub Wales with funding secured from the British Film Institute’s (BFI) Neighbourhood Cinema Fund. The venues will screen twenty-four acclaimed new and classic films, spanning comedies, animation, drama and more.

The first movies start rolling on Tuesday 24th February, which include How to Train Your Dragon 2 and A Most Wanted Man, at Valleys Kids’ Soar Centre in Penygraig and the Ebbw Vale Institute respectively. Other venues including Valleys Kids at Penyrenglyn, Rhydefelin, and The Factory in Porth are participating. Maesteg Town Hall in Bridgend is also offering an extra special film and tea dance event.

With a film showing in each community venue every month, moviegoers can plan to see BAFTA-winning and much-applauded Pride, which is set in Wales during the Miners’ strike, and the 2014 British adaptation of bear-favourite, Paddington. Movies such as Imitation Game, Mr Turner and What We Did on Our Holiday will also feature, broadening choice for community audiences across the area.

Hana Lewis, Film Hub Wales Strategic Manager said

“Film Hub Wales, with Chapter as its lead organisation, is proud to develop the new and exciting Valley’s Cinema project in partnership with Zoom Cymru, funded by the BFI’s Neighbourhood Cinema scheme. Rural and community venues have an important and active part to play in the landscape of independent cinema here in Wales. They often bridge the gap for audiences, particularly where transport links are poor, where ticket prices are unaffordable or where nearby independent cinemas have been forced to close. We look forward to working with the four new venues and seeing how the project develops cinema audiences across the South Wales Valleys.”

Gemma Woolley, Director of Zoom Cymru added

“This is a great project for people of all ages across under-served communities for cinema in South Wales to enjoy a movie on the big screen with friends or family, right on their doorstep. Enthusing audiences through film is part of the core work of Zoom Cymru, and we’re looking forward to hosting innovative film-related workshops and masterclasses too in Rhondda Cynon Taff, Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend and further afield during this year’s Zoom International Film Festival in March.”

Moviola will provide equipment to screen the films and content will come from thier vast film catalogue. They already have a relationship with over 20 existing venues in South and Mid Wales through their film booking and advice service. Longer-term, the pilot scheme is hoping to be successful enough to set up a regular film programme or access to a diverse year-round cultural programme in each area.

Ticket prices vary from just £1 – £5 and should be booked in advance where possible.

See individual venues for full screens and times.

Screenings 2015*:

Valleys Kids, Soar Centre, Penygraig.
Tuesday 24th February – How to Train Your Dragon 2 – 6pm in Penygraig
Thursday 26th March – Paddington – 6pm – Penygraig
TO BOOK TICKETS CALL 01443 303032 or pay on the door (£2.00 Adults, £1.00 Children)