Secret Cinema review: After wowing with their production of Back To The Future in 2014, Secret Cinema returns for their most ambitious gig yet, The Empire Strikes Back.
Secret Cinema review, Photo credit Olivia Weetch
Secret Cinema are an establishment that have been around for several years now. Known for giving fans exceptional and truly special screening experiences the group have created events for a diverse range of films including The Grand Budapest Hotel, Watchmen and Miller’s Crossing. Last year the organisation upped their game as they took over part of London to recreate the set of Hill Valley, the setting for the Back to the Future trilogy.
Although marred with a few teething problems early on, which resulted in some shows being cancelled, they went on to prevail with all those that went gushing about how much fun they had. This year the team have decided to go one step higher, creating an event for one of the biggest fandoms out there – Star Wars.
We were lucky enough to attend Friday’s event, and though we can’t tell you much (it is a secret cinema review after all), we can confirm that fans will love every second.
Make sure that you don’t miss a single moment by arriving nice and early. From the moment you have been cleared to enter the London location, the inner child in you will get treat after delight. Just like last year’s High Valley setting, Secret Cinema have gone all out to recreate that far, far away galaxy.
Another facet of Secret Cinema is that audience participation is strongly encouraged and this venture is no different; dressing-up and embracing your Star Wars character is heavily recommended. Don’t worry if cosplay isn’t your thing as there are more minimal costume choices you can make whilst still feeling like part of everything.
Secret Cinema review, Photo credit Mike Massaro
Those expecting the usual cinema environment should be aware that there’s much more to this event than just going into a dark room and watching the film, something which would be just as enjoyable to some. It takes a long time to get to the actual screening, but the time will fly by as you journey through and around some iconic locations, meeting the odd familiar face along the way.
The pre-screening activities are a true sandbox environment meaning audiences have the opportunity to get as involved (or not) as they want. On one hand you can inspect every square inch and interrogate everyone who crosses your path, immersing yourself in the atmosphere. On the other you can quite easily head to the ‘bar’ and sit back with some galactic themed cocktails. You don’t get many chances in life to play cards with Lando, so we encourage the former option.
The film is still the same but those who have seen it multiple times will find it invigorating to see it in such wondrous surroundings. Try not to get too lost in the movie though as there are a few unexpected moments that unfold live. And don’t go running off as the credits roll or else you’ll miss the after party; the only real way to celebrate surviving a battle with Darth Vader.
Personally I’m not the biggest Star Wars fan (don’t shoot), I prefer my sci-fi a little more Ridley Scott/ James Cameron, but even I found myself swept up in the proceedings. Other members of the team who attended however, were big fans – you know the type that can name all the obscure aliens and can quote the films backwards – and they all had grins like kids at Christmas the whole evening.
Secret Cinema Presents Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back is an incredible, immersive, interactive experience that will be remembered by all who attend for a lifetime.
Secret Cinema review by Kat Smith, June 2015.
Secret Cinema Presents Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back is on now until 27th September 2015. Buy your tickets now www.secretcinema.org/tickets
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