Movie Nights
Movie Programme 2025/26
24th April 2026
The Rider
"The Rider" is a poignant drama that follows Brady Blackburn, a young cowboy from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota, who is recovering from a near-fatal horse riding accident that has left him unable to compete in rodeos. As he grapples with his identity and the loss of his passion for riding, Brady struggles to find a new purpose in a world where he feels increasingly disconnected.
The film explores themes of resilience, masculinity, and cultural heritage while showcasing the beauty of the American West. With breathtaking cinematography and a blend of real-life elements, the narrative unfolds through Brady’s interactions with family and friends, offering an intimate portrait of his journey toward self-acceptance. "The Rider" is both a celebration of cowboy culture and a poignant reflection on the challenges of recovery and the search for one’s place in the world.
8th May
Hamnet
Directed by Chloé Zhao (Nomadland) and starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, Hamnet is a deeply emotional historical drama based on Maggie O'Farrell's acclaimed novel. It dramatises the family life of William Shakespeare and his wife Agnes Hathaway, as they cope with the death of their 11-year-old son Hamnet.
Set in 16th-century England, Agnes — a healer by trade — must find strength to care for her surviving children while processing her devastating loss, as she and William grapple with grief in very different ways. The film's central idea is that Shakespeare's tragedy Hamlet was born directly from this grief, with the names Hamnet and Hamlet being interchangeable in Elizabethan England.
It's been one of the standout films of the awards season. Buckley's performance received particular praise, winning Best Actress at the Golden Globes, and the film holds an 86% on Rotten Tomatoes. Fair warning, though — by all accounts it's a proper tearjerker, so go prepared.
29th May 2026
My Favourite Cake
"My Favourite Cake" is a powerful drama that follows the journey of a woman named Samia, who lives in a country with strict restrictions on women's rights. Dissatisfied with her constrained existence, she bravely decides to pursue her desires and ambitions, defying societal norms.
As she navigates the challenges of her oppressive environment, Samia becomes determined to find her voice and freedom. The film explores themes of empowerment, resilience, and the quest for identity amidst cultural constraints. With a compelling narrative and strong character development, "My Favourite Cake" highlights the struggles and triumphs of women seeking autonomy in a world that tries to silence them. Ultimately, it is a celebration of courage and the pursuit of one's dreams, no matter the obstacles.
26th June 2026
Touch
"Touch" is a deeply moving drama that follows the emotional journey of a man named Kahn, who embarks on a quest to reconnect with his first love, a woman named Anu, who mysteriously disappeared 50 years earlier. As he retraces their shared memories and significant places from their youth, Kahn reflects on the profound impact their love had on his life and the unresolved feelings that still linger.
The film beautifully explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, showcasing how past relationships shape our present selves. With a blend of nostalgia and heartache, Kahn's journey is both personal and universal, resonating with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet nature of love and longing.
The performances are heartfelt, capturing the intensity of Kahn's emotions as he confronts the past while navigating the complexities of his current life. "Touch" ultimately serves as a meditation on the enduring power of love and the profound connections that leave lasting imprints on our hearts. It’s a touching narrative that invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of love and loss.
31st July 2026
Tangerines
"Tangerines" is a beautifully crafted Estonian-Georgian film directed by Zaza Urushadze that poignantly explores the themes of war, humanity, and unlikely friendship. Set during the 1992 war in Abkhazia, the story follows Ivo, an Estonian farmer who remains in his homeland to harvest his tangerine crop, despite the ongoing conflict. When he encounters two wounded soldiers from opposing sides, he takes them into his home to care for them.
The film masterfully balances moments of tension with deep emotional resonance, highlighting the absurdity of war and the capacity for compassion amidst chaos. The performances are outstanding, particularly the portrayal of Ivo, whose quiet strength and moral integrity shine through as he navigates the complexities of the situation.
Visually stunning, with a rich colour palette that emphasises the beauty of the landscape and the symbolism of the tangerine crop, "Tangerines" captures the essence of timeless moral dilemmas. It invites viewers to reflect on the nature of conflict and the profound connections that can arise even in the darkest of times. Overall, "Tangerines" is a thought-provoking and moving film that stays with you long after the credits roll.