Community cinema initiative brings film back to Aviemore

Cairngorm Community Cinema aims to unite locals through thought-provoking films.

A new venture in Aviemore is set to rekindle the love for cinema among locals. The Cairngorm Community Cinema (CCC), spearheaded by filmmaker Hannah Bailey and her husband Rupert Shanks, aims to create a vibrant space for film enthusiasts to gather and engage with thought-provoking cinema. After months of planning and collaboration with Film Hub Scotland, the couple is excited to launch this community-driven project that promises to connect residents through the shared experience of film.

Reviving the local film scene

The CCC is not just another cinema; it is a passion project born out of a desire to bring independent and meaningful films to the Aviemore community. With the generous support of Spey Valley Cinema, which has offered its venue for monthly screenings, the CCC kicked off its inaugural event with the film The Outrun, starring Saoirse Ronan. The turnout exceeded expectations, with over 140 attendees, showcasing a clear appetite for cultural events in the area.

Hannah Bailey, who has lived in Aviemore for four years, expressed her excitement about the project. She noted that the idea for a community cinema emerged during a networking event where she discussed the success of similar initiatives in nearby towns like Grantown-on-Spey and Kingussie. “We thought to ourselves, ‘Why is there not a community cinema in Aviemore?’” she recalled. This question sparked a year-long journey to establish the CCC, which aims to cater to the community’s desire for more regular cultural activities.

Thought-provoking films for a connected community

Unlike mainstream cinemas that often focus on big-budget blockbusters, the CCC is dedicated to showcasing films that resonate with the local community. Each screening is carefully selected to ensure it offers something unique and relevant to the audience. For instance, The Outrun explores themes of recovery and nature, set against the backdrop of Orkney, making it a fitting choice for the community.

Hannah believes that the CCC can fill a significant gap in the local cultural landscape, especially as more creative individuals move to the Cairngorms. “There is an appetite for more cultural events,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of fostering a sense of community through shared experiences. The cinema will also feature Q&A sessions before and after screenings, allowing attendees to engage in discussions about the films, further enhancing the communal atmosphere.

Overcoming challenges in the cinema industry

The rise of streaming services has posed challenges for traditional cinemas, with many people opting to watch films from the comfort of their homes. However, Hannah remains optimistic about the future of cinema. She argues that the social aspect of attending a film screening cannot be replicated through streaming. “What’s so special about cinema is you are sharing it with lots of people you don’t even know,” she explained. This shared experience, she believes, is what keeps the magic of cinema alive.

As the CCC prepares for its next screening of The Kneecap on December 10, the enthusiasm from the community continues to grow. Hannah’s vision for a cinema that not only entertains but also sparks conversation and connection among locals is becoming a reality. The Cairngorm Community Cinema is poised to become a cherished hub for film lovers in Aviemore, proving that the love for cinema can thrive even in the face of modern challenges.