Edinburgh’s Filmhouse cinema has been closed for almost a year after the charitable organisation that ran it went into administration. In that time there have been failed bids, a lot of talk, and then we feared the worst when the company Caledonian Heritable bought the premises. Known for their bars such as The Dome, many thought this meant the Filmhouse might be changed into an up-market pub. However, recent developments have renewed film lovers’ hopes. With the public’s help this historic cinema that has been the home of so many memories in Scotland’s cultural consciousness can live on.
A group of former colleagues have formed a new company, Filmhouse Ltd. They are currently in talks with Caledonian Heritable for a long lease and are using the next six months to fundraise in order to do some repairs to the fabric of the building and refurb the whole thing. They are looking for a sum in the region of 1.25 million, not exactly a small amount. Most of this will come through philanthropists and public funders, but a sizeable portion must come from crowdfunding.
£250,000 is the initial target. The essential refit will include new seating and more legroom in the cinemas, improved ventilation, a public toilet renovation, a refurb of the beloved cafe/bar, and possibly the addition of a fourth cinema screen. Great news, considering all seemed to be lost not too long ago!
Check out the Crowdfunder for more info on how to contribute
