Tell us about the project?
Close-Up is the most comprehensive, independent film resource in London. Our library consists of over 18,000 films and books and our free online archive allows access to thousands of entries related to the moving image and the prestigious film magazine Vertigo.
A year ago we were presented with the exciting opportunity to create our own cinema and establish a unique film centre in East London. Our repertory cinema will cover the entire history of the medium, as well as presenting auteur cinema and radical new artists’ film and video.
Open every day Close-Up will provide a study space where our experienced Library staff will be on hand to help with any research or film requests. We will host regular talks, seminars and events, offering a diverse range of critical views to inspire audiences, academics and practitioners alike.
With 40 comfortable seats, the theatre will be fully accessible for two wheelchairs, and equipped with DCI compliant digital projection (DCP), reel-to-reel 35mm, 16mm, DV, Beta SP etc, and a 5.1 surround sound system.
What is unique about this project?
Under pressure from studios and distributors cinemas across the world are converting to digital. We are dedicated to screening film in its original format wherever possible, including the exhibition of 35mm archival prints that would otherwise be condemned to archives with limited availability to the public. This will enable us to host a repertory programme that is more unique and diverse than any other.
Why do you choose Shoreditch to do this?
Close-Up was established on Brick Lane in 2005. Since then we have built up a supportive membership base and held regular screenings at Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club where our programme proved incredibly popular. Close-Up’s director, Damien Sanville, has lived and worked in Shoreditch for a number of years and has seen the growing thirst and development of art and culture in the area, so it made perfect sense to continue the work of Close-Up just a stones throw from where it all began.
Who/what are your favorite Artists/Businesses in the area?
We have really enjoyed collaborating with the Whitechapel Galley and no.w.here.
What are your favourite places in the area?
Brick Lane Coffee must be visited at least 3 times a day!
What are you future plans?
Right now we are concentrating all our efforts on opening Close-Up’s new cinema. We have come so far in the redevelopment of the new site and with its completion so tantalizingly close we are desperate to get the funds that will enable us to finish the works and move in. Once that has been achieved the future plan is to establish Close-Up as an essential film resource not just for Shoreditch but also wider audiences in London and the UK.
Social links:
Twitter: @closeupcentre
Facebook: www.facebook.com/closeupfilmcentre
Website: www.closeupfilmcentre.com
