Cinema idea, would it work?

Question

I was watching Dragon's den on the bbc when i thought of an idea that could possibly work and be a good business.

My idea was to show old classic films on cinema screens,it is a rare chance to watch memorable films in their full glory on the big screen with the atmosphere of an audience around you. It's an opportunity to see movies from a bygone era that people growing up in the 70s, 80s and 90s may have been too young to appreciate on a big screen before. It also a chance for those fortunate enough to have seen them the first time around to revisit fond childhood memories.

So my question is..

How would you get hold of the old classic films cinema size/quality? How much would they cost compared to getting new movies in? and is it realistic?

Answer 1

You have a great idea, but I must be honest with you, I doubt it would work.

There are still plenty of reels of 32mm film about, and this format is still used, but modern technology means that dvd and wide screen television now rules.

Showing the old classics would appeal to a great number of people, but the cost could outweigh the profit.

May I suggest you do plenty research into your idea, and work with what you learn. I never like to put somebody off with a good idea, but please be careful, and if you do wish to continue, I wish you all the best. You could be onto a winner, but be prepared if it does not work out.

Hope this helps you, and what ever you decide, I wish you all the best.

Answer 2

Thanks for the answers guys most appreciated, some other questions would be..

Where would i find 32mm films and a projector which would run them? (uk) I am thinking films like Donnie Darko, Godfather, Pulp fiction, The great escape (near christmas) etc.

If you could send me details to [e-mail] that would be of great help!

Answer 3

If u have an idea dont post it on the internet for other people to pinch

Answer 4

Quite a few places do this already - our local town hall shows classic old or obscure modern films on Tuesday nights.  The local university film club has public showings twice a month too - a great chance to see some lovely old film noir, foreign films, or art house stuff.  Some chain cinemas have 'director's chair' chair nights - usually during the week again - when they show more offbeat stuff.  There is definitely a market for these sorts of screenings - although I'm not sure you could run a cinema only showing old films.  

Try contacting the Picturehouse cinemas (national chain of arthouse cinemas), your local town hall, art college or library for info on local schemes already running.  They'll be able to tell you about acquiring the old cine-reels and equipment and the Picturehouses could tell you a bit about the demand for such a service.

Good luck - I'm off to see The Big Sleep on an old projector screen at the town hall with a nice glass of Merlot and no teenagers shrieking.  Sweet....