Camden Cinema Club, N1: A club for people who enjoy films on the big screen and who also would like to meet new people who share their interest in films. They mainly meet at the Odeon in Camden during the week (Monday-Thursday) to make the most of off-peak ticket prices. They try to host a couple of meetings a month and are always open to suggestions from members as to what they’d like to see. The films tend to be mainstream (so those interested in indie, arthouse or foreign films might find other clubs more conducive to their taste) but everyone is invited to join.
George’s Social Cinema: A “secret private film club dedicated to presenting thought-provoking films in a convivial and intimate setting”. You can enjoy this “intimate and unique filmic experience” on the first Wednesday of every month. The programme is organised around classic, cult and arthouse films that focus on existential themes. The intimate atmosphere is provided by sitting on armchairs and sofas to watch and share the cinematic journey with others. Guests are welcome to stay behind afterwards to mingle and chat with others and open-minded and informal discussions are encouraged.
Islington and Hackney Theatregoers and Cinephiles: A group that gets together to see theatre and independent/interesting films in Islington and Hackney. Visiting the theatres and cinemas of Islington and Hackney. There is always something to eat and drink before or afterwards and they operate good group discipline meaning that people are expected to turn up if they RSVP and this results in a diverse stimulating mix of people.
The London Movie Meetup Group: The organisers pick films and people can come along as the please. They meet up beforehand and then go for drinks afterwards. The taste is eclectic, ranging from foreign language films as indie cinemas to Hollywood blockbusters at multiplexes. The fun is in watching with others and discussing it over a drink afterwards.
London Movie Social Club: Formerly known as the West-End Cinephiles, this group takes in the whole range of movies that are shown in West-End cinemas. From action to comedy to horror/sci-fi, the club meets during the week after work with an opportunity to go for a bite/drink afterwards to discuss.
London Social Unlimited Movie Club: A free social group that meet up to make the most of their Cineworld Unlimited Movie Cards (although attendees don’t need a card to join the group). The group tends to meet in non-Westend Cineworld Cinemas, usually at the O2 or West India Quay.
Stanley’s Film Club, South Norwood, SE25: Stanley’s Film Club is a community cinema based in South Norwood. They screen a wide range of films, bringing the best of world cinema to the local community. Run by passionate volunteers, the programme is “designed to unite and empower our diverse community”. With ‘greet and chat’ after the movie, this film club is very community oriented and offers new film makers the opportunity to show their shorts alongside the feature films.
Tate Modern Community Film Club, SE1: This film club was formed out of discussions at the Bankside Residents Forum. Membership is aimed at those living in Southwark or Lambeth and launched with films set in and around South London. They also include films that are evocative of London more generally. There is no need to book, you can just turn up on the evening of the screening.
Whirled Cinema, Loughborough Junction, SW9: This is small and cosy cinema, a world away from the multiplex experience. With an inexpensive monthly membership, this is the place to go to find interesting films that have no ads or trailers and to “kick back with a few drinks and make new friends in a chilled and welcoming environment.” Hidden away under the arches in Loughborough Junction (SW9), they are one of London’s best kept secrets.