An audience discussion period after films

Nicholas Albery

I propose that art cinemas and others have a 15 minute period at the end of a film, where the audience are encouraged to remain and to discuss the film they have just seen, perhaps with the discussion moderated by a member of the cinema's staff. A stimulating discussion could be had whilst the film was still fresh in the mind and new friendships might be formed which could be continued afterwards in a nearby café or bar. A slightly higher price could be charged to cover the cinema's cost of having this extra period. It might also make the job of working at the cinema more interesting, and could help some of those living in a city to feel less lonely or alienated.

I often find myself listening fascinated to other people's comments as I am leaving the cinema. But in a couple or small group the discussion of a film tends quickly to die out, as there are not enough comments generated or a sufficiently agreed focus to sustain that particular topic of conversation. A big audience could have a much more lively and intense dynamic, with many diverse perspectives.

At the very least, the cinema could put up a notice, or flash up a screen just before the film starts, saying that those who wish to discuss the film afterwards, can go to such-and-such café nearby, and make themselves known to the staff who will be happy to sit would-be debaters together - or the latter could be identified with lapel badges made available by the cinema (further free publicity for the film and the cinema).

This way everyone would gain: the cinema would become known as a trigger for lively meetings, the audience would be able to interact more and the nearby café would gain business.

Nicholas Albery, 20 Heber Road, London NW2 6AA (tel 0181 208 2853; fax 0181 452 6434; e-mail: <rhino@bbcnc.org.uk>).

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