Film fans prepare to open new Lume Cinema in Kidderminster

Movie buff James Anderson Brown together with Anthony Hughes and Eddy Morton, founders of Stourbridge Community Development Trust, stepped in to save the cinema following Reel’s shock closure announcement in March 2020 and now their hard work is nearing completion, with the new Lume Cinema set to open on Thursday September 30.

Anthony Hughes said: “Its been an incredibly difficult time for everyone since the first lockdown and to be taking on a challenge of this size has been a huge undertaking. With so many national and local lockdown restrictions, even getting people on site working safely has involved constant often hourly changes – testing even my project management skills.”

Eddy Morton added: “The task of not just reopening, but to change the cinema from how it was to our own plans has finally paid off. We have a great venue that will not only deliver to film fans who love the experience of cinema, but also a whole host of yearly events for the communities from arts and music events to community and learning for all ages and demographics.”

The cinema, which has been revamped and now offers a café bar, will open its doors with the new James Bond flick No Time To Die.

For more details and to book tickets go to lumecinema.com.

James Anderson Brown, founder of the Mockingbird Cinema in Birmingham said: “It’s a great film to open our cinema with. This is just the start. We will always offer the latest blockbusters to give people that magical cinema experience, but also, because we are an independent cinema, we can screen a huge variety of other films from independent film makers and art-house to fantastic options for private screenings and group bookings in one of our four screens. This will give everyone an opportunity to hold parties and great nights out for friends, family and even office party bookings.”

He added: “I think because people have been in lockdown or working from home, the novelty of having streaming services has worn off. People want to get out and enjoy themselves with a great experience and the excitement of seeing films on the big screen. This is why cinemas used to be called Picture Palaces and we have designed Lume to offer a feeling of glamour, it’s a special occasion. But with a range of very reasonable priced tickets, everyone can come and enjoy great cinema and our café bar anytime they want.”

As well as the new 007 movie, film fans will be able to see the Aretha Franklin biopic Respect and a host of old favourites and cult gems.

There will also be horror and Halloween-themed movies showing throughout October.