Independent cinemas can thrive

I refer to the letter from Kay Emery (Observer, April 5). The chief executive officer of the Film Distributors Association, Mr Mark Batey, tells us that ten screen multiplex cinemas struggle to show all new films released each week, as there are so many.

By The Newsroom

Published 22nd Apr 2012, 10:21 BST

Updated 7th Jun 2018, 19:43 BST

On April 6 their website, www.launchingfilms.com, shows 12 new films were released that week, four of which are for saturation distribution, which seems typical of an average week.

The film distribution industry is a very competitive business. Mr Batey also confirms there would be no block to the Picturedrome obtaining first week release films, so he is adamant that Bognor Regis can support both an independent cinema and a miniplex.

Chichester’s New Park independent cinema existed long before the City Gate 10 screen multiplex arrived. New Park does very well and is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. It shows many popular new films and also is able to show major films on day of release.

This confirms what Mr Batey is telling us – well-supported independent cinemas can thrive in the same town as a multiplex.

Cllr Andrew Evans

Bognor Regis Marine Ward

Observer Chichester