After three long years, Edinburgh’s beloved independent cinema, the Filmhouse, is back in business—this time with a bold focus on classic celluloid. The venue plans to showcase stunning 70mm versions of recent hits like Oppenheimer and The Brutalist, tapping into a growing craving for analogue film experiences that digital screens just can’t match.
Andrew Simpson, the Filmhouse’s new executive director, likens this trend to the vinyl revival. “There’s something about watching a film on actual film that feels real,” he says. “The color, the grain, it’s totally different from digital. People want authenticity and history—they want to feel connected.” With four screens ready to roll, the Filmhouse aims to recapture that old-school magic.
From Crisis to Comeback: How Community Spirit Saved a Cinema
The Filmhouse’s story is one of resilience. Back in October 2022, it shut its doors unexpectedly amid financial trouble, leaving Edinburgh’s film lovers stunned. But the show wasn’t over. A passionate community campaign, led by staff and board members, fought hard to bring it back.
This grassroots push highlights how much the cinema means to the city—not just as a place to watch films, but as a cultural hub. Simpson, who arrived from Newcastle’s Tyneside Cinema, promises a full return to hosting independent film festivals, making the Filmhouse a lively spot for cinephiles once again.
This sense of community is vital. Edinburgh residents and film fans rallied together, showing how much people value spaces that celebrate cinema beyond mainstream blockbusters. The Filmhouse’s revival feels like a win for everyone who believes movies are more than just entertainment—they’re art and history.
A Treasure Trove of Vintage Tech Brings Films to Life
What sets the Filmhouse apart? Its incredible collection of vintage projectors and broadcast gear. The cinema boasts original machines that handle everything from 70mm to 8mm films, plus rare broadcast-grade equipment using old Beta SP tapes.
This means they can screen a vast array of films, from classic gems to the latest releases, all in formats that few venues can match. Simpson is proud of this heritage: “We’re celebrating the full diversity of film history. Showing films in these formats is key to that.”
Having both the old-school tech and modern digital projectors gives the Filmhouse flexibility. But it’s the tactile, analog experience that’s drawing crowds. There’s a special kind of magic in watching the flicker of light through celluloid, something digital just can’t mimic.
Why Analogue Film is Making a Comeback Now
You might wonder why, in the age of streaming and digital everything, people are flocking to analogue film screenings. It’s a mix of nostalgia, curiosity, and a craving for authenticity.
Films shot on 70mm or 35mm have a depth and texture that digital can struggle to replicate. It’s like comparing a vinyl record to an MP3—sure, both play music, but the feel and warmth are totally different.
Simpson explains it like this: “It’s about realness. The subtle imperfections, the way the colors shift—there’s a human touch to it. People want that connection, especially after years of watching everything on flat, digital screens.”
Plus, events like screenings of Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer in 70mm have grabbed headlines and boosted interest. It’s proof that big films can still benefit from old-school presentation.
The Filmhouse’s lineup isn’t just blockbusters, though. It’s a celebration of cinema in all its forms—from contemporary indie gems to archival classics. For cinephiles, it’s a dream come true.
What’s Next for the Filmhouse and Edinburgh’s Cinema Scene?
Looking ahead, the Filmhouse wants to be a beacon for film lovers of every stripe. That means festivals, retrospectives, community events, and maybe even a few surprises.
The cinema’s blend of technology and heritage sets it apart from many multiplexes, creating a unique space where history and innovation meet.
Andrew Simpson’s arrival signals fresh energy. With his background at Tyneside Cinema—a respected independent venue known for its eclectic programming—there’s plenty of hope for exciting things ahead.
Edinburgh, known for its rich arts scene, is getting its cinema heart back. The Filmhouse reopening is more than a building coming back to life. It’s about reigniting a passion for film’s tactile, emotional, and communal power.
