Film on the Tyne is all ours: a guide to Tyneside Cinema

On 1st February 1937, a cinema was set up on Pilgrim Street by the great-uncle of Ridley and Tony Scott. It was dedicated to showing a variety of news, sports and cartoons. Nearly 90 years later, Tyneside Cinema remains a thriving cultural hub in the centre of Newcastle, and an essential cinema for students and filmgoers. 

Since coming to Newcastle University I have been to Tyneside Cinema more times than I can count. It’s the best place for a cinephile to go to as, not only can you see a wide variety of films not showing in many multiplexes, there is a real sense of community when you go to see a film there. 

While the cinema does often show big films that screen in all the big cinema chains, the best things to see there are independent films and smaller-scale releases, the kind that often get overlooked in those chains in favor of the newest superhero movie. 

For example, whenever a new A24 film comes out I endeavour to see it at Tyneside Cinema because it’s a place where A24’s quirkiness and unique mood will truly shine, with an audience that is fully swept up in its world. Let’s just say, the visitors to Tyneside definitely enjoyed Heretic and Hugh Grant’s Jar-Jar Binks and Thom Yorke impressions.

The cinema hosts many other events alongside their regular programme of new films, including screenings of classics, ballet, live theatre, Q&A events, and coverage of many different film festivals, including the North East International Film Festival at the end of this month (which has a 3-day free pass for students!). 

I’ve been to so many events at Tyneside Cinema, such as their Halloween All-Nighter and their Good/Bad Film Club, but my favourite has to be their interactive screening of the so-bad-it’s-good cult classic The Room, complete with live commentary from Mark himself Greg Sestero. 

There is no denying that my enjoyment of a film is enhanced when I see it at Tyneside. If I’d have seen Saltburn at a regular cinema, I don’t think I’d have been as engrossed in the film’s allure and storytelling. If I’d have seen The Substance in a regular cinema, I don’t think it would have felt as genuinely bonkers. 

Tyneside Cinema is the perfect place to see unique and bold films in a beautiful building, and make some fantastic film-based memories along the way. And you can enjoy all these experiences for just a £7 ticket if you become a Young Tyneside member. 

So, what are you waiting for?