Hidden in the old part of Cromwell, this renovated church is home to a community film society, with a very broad membership.

Cromwell’s only cinema is not operated for profit; it was developed as a cinema which could be open to everyone in the community.

President PKay Maracin said Arthurs was the official home of the Cromwell Film Society, but the cinema was an asset for the whole community.

PKay said one of the benefits of being a community-based theatre was they could show a wider variety of films.

“We don’t have to be mainstream.

“We do show commercial films but we can also choose to show arthouse or independent films – we choose films according to our audience.

“This means we can provide something for everyone.”  

PKay has hung a Lara Croft poster personally signed by actress Angelina Jolie in the foyer of the cinema for everyone to enjoy.

PKay said the way people chose to watch films had changed with the ease and ready availability of streaming. The cinema met a different need, being focused on giving people an experience and as a place for social interaction.

“Being a not-for-profit society, we didn’t need to be in a hurry to re-open after lockdown.

“We were in a good position to wait, and source films that might not make money but would appeal to people locally.”

Arthurs cinema offers relaxed seating for 24 people.

PKay said people had remained cautious for some time after lockdown and they had waited before opening to give people time to get used to being out and about again.

“We’ve all got used to a new lifestyle, where people enjoy time with family and for themselves.

“And a lot of our older adults are still social distancing.”

They sent out newsletters and questionnaires, and opened when people said they were ready to come back.

“It’s great because everyone is now ready for something social.

“We have a theatre where people aren’t squashed in together – they can relax and enjoy.”

PKay said the Cromwell Film Society had a membership system. But people didn’t have to be members to come and enjoy a film.

“Membership fees paid for our updated entrance; any funds go back to ensuring the cinema is here for the community.

“It’s somewhere for people in Cromwell to go that isn’t a noisy bar or restaurant – it’s good entertainment and you can catch up with like-minded locals.”

PKay said the membership fee of $20 per year was not a lot, but by maintaining a solid membership base it meant they could focus on what would serve the community, rather than making a profit.

“Membership is about keeping a cinema in Cromwell, for Cromwell – a special cinema that meets the needs here.

“We are not for profit, run by locals.

“We’re here for the community, because of the community.”

And that community support was not only reflected in membership. PKay said it was wide local support that got the newly updated entrance over the line, so it was easier for more people to attend.

They were always looking for more members to ensure the future of the community cinema.

“It’s not just about coming to see a film; it’s about social issues and being part of creating a stronger community.”

PKay said going to the cinema at Arthurs was kept affordable, yet everything was very professional.

“We’re not commercial, yet we’re one of the highest quality cinemas in terms of projection and technology.

“You can watch a film, and create memories in a place where people know your name.”

Click here to see what’s on at Arthurs cinema.

Photos The Central App