How to set up a cinema from scratch?

Question

Wanna set up an old classic cinema in my town , how would you set up a cinema from scratch?

1.) How would you get hold of the old classic films cinema size/quality? (godfather, the shining, donnie darko..etc) How much would they cost compared to getting new movies in?

2.) Where would i find 32mm films and a projector which would run them? (uk) or if you have better ideas please help.

much appreciated

Answer 1

I would start by contacting film distributors and asking their advice. You're going to do business with these people if your venture gets off the ground and as you'd be giving them business, it would be in their interests to advise you well.

You are very brave to try and start a business during an economic downturn but perhaps you have identified a gap in the market. You need to research the market and be certain that there would be the demand. Also, unless you're in the position of acquiring a closed down cinema, you need to research where to site it. For instance, if your town already has a vibrant arts scene, you should look at siting it near other establishments in related fields like theatres and existing mainstream cinemas. Also, if you want to have children's matinees, site it somewhere where parents would be happy to let their children go unaccompanied.

I read somewhere that most new businesses need £200,000 working capital at the start, partly to see them through the first two years when you may have to change your business model several times.

I hope you succeed. Good luck!

Answer 2

Those are modern films, you young whippersnapper.

I suspect that setting up a cinema to use actually film and projectors will be very expensive and that most of the new multiplexes use DVD versions.

In any case you will need a cinema license from the Council unless you are having very few shows. If you have an old cinema then it will probably be ok but for new buildings there are all sorts of things, such as having enough doors to get everyone out in (I think)3 minutes if there is a fire.

Check with the local licensing department - the law has changed a lot recently  and I am no longer up to date with it.