by Jody Ball
THE show must go on for the Majestic cinema, Bridgnorth and it does, with a vibrant friendly atmosphere for everyone.
As part of the Bridgnorth Music and Arts Festival the cinema will host the premiere of “Finding Their Feet”, which was exclusively shot in Shropshire.
There will be a one-off screening on August 28 at 7.30pm, with a special screentalk by local director and co-screenwriter, Matt Daniels, including a question and answer session after the showing.
It is hoped the film will be released on DVD in time for the event so that signed copies will be available to buy on the evening.
The cinemas, beautifully kept in original art deco, features old-fashioned values and fits well with the town and its loyal customer base. Originally opened in the 1930s the cinema still projects some parts of its show in 35mm film and hosts various nights, fighting for today’s best blockbusters.
It boasts one of the largest screens in Shropshire and has full Dolby Surround Sound in all three screens with plentiful leg room, making the experience a comfortable one.
It is home to a very old Gaumont-Kalee 21 projector which is in full working order and used by the Majestic to run its adverts.
The cinema’s very own “Mr Majestic”, Gary Biddlestone, 61, is the chief projectionist and like all the staff has an extreme passion for film. He built the two screens upstairs, which was formerly a balcony to the main screen.
Having been in the industry since his teenage years, he is able to help the Majestic be all it can, using his extensive knowledge and service.
“He is a great asset, we don’t know what we will do when he retires,” said James Frizzell, manager of the Majestic.
The Majestic is part of the independent Reel Cinema group owned, one of 18 around the UK. With the whole industry turning to digital, soon the Majestic will have to do the same, although they are determined to keep the old projector option available.
Switching to digital is affecting smaller cinemas due to the high cost in purchasing digital equipment and the high price of 35mm film, which is now hard to come by.
The Majestic reintroduces old fashioned standards and the 11 staff take time to talk to their customers and value all their responses.
Mr Frizzell, who worked his way up from projectionist to manager, said: “Our customers are very loyal and our young team is as enthusiast as I am about film.
“We don’t work here for the money, but for the love of film.”
The Majestic is looking forward to a needed refurbishment and is bringing back its much loved film club in September.
They have previously screened such classics as Psycho, The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Brighton Rock as well as sing-a-long films like Mamma Mia – with the audience dressing up for the event.