Ahead of the release of Netflix’s forthcoming Original Film The Midnight Sky, Netflix has announced a new Film Club initiative in partnership with WaveLength, the UK’s leading loneliness charity who provide those most in need with technology to facilitate and inspire meaningful connections with others. Wavelength help people who have become lonely through lots of different circumstances. Some of these include: age; the death of a loved one; poor physical or mental health; disability; homelessness; domestic abuse; becoming a refugee or moving away from friends and family.
Inspired by The Midnight Sky, which sees George Clooney direct and star as a solitary scientist in a post-apocalyptic world, the partnership will see Netflix donate tablet computers to support WaveLength’s important work and launch a new monthly Film Club, giving beneficiaries the opportunity to come together virtually in a relaxed and sociable environment and connect with others through the power of film.
“Research estimates that over 9 million in the UK are lonely at any given time,” says WaveLength CEO Timothy Leech. “Our research with the University of York shows for those who are isolated, technology offers a valuable and life-changing window into the world, breaking the silence which many lonely people live with on a daily basis. We rely on donations from supporters to carry the vital work we do, especially at this time when loneliness and isolation is so high. We are thrilled to launch this new Film Club with Netflix and hope it will have a meaningful impact on our beneficiaries’ lives.”
Hosted by BBC Radio 1 film critic Ali Plumb, the “Netflix x WaveLength Film Club” will launch in the new year, kicking off with The Midnight Sky, and include a mixture of new releases and classic films available on Netflix over the coming months.
“Film has always been a passion of mine, not only for the escapism and entertainment it provides, but also for the joy I feel when sharing films and stories with others, both on the radio and at home.” Says Ali Plumb, “I’m really excited to be a part of this film club and to share my passion with a new set of Wavelength friends”
Donations can be made to the charity via their JustGiving page. For further information on WaveLength visit their official website.
