Future Cinema, Saturday Night Fever, Troxy

I was utterly amazed when I experienced Secret Cinema for the first time a few years ago. This immersive cinematic experience caught on fast and soon everyone wanted a ticket to a Secret Cinema event. Soon after, Future Cinema arrived, a less exclusive idea that allowed the revolutionary concept to reach bigger crowds. The product was, sadly, diluted and consequently the thrill lessened. Tickets were more readily available, and very few were as desperate to go.

Casablanca was my first Future Cinema experience and more recently I went to the Saturday Night Fever production. As a big John Travolta fan, this film has always been on my favourites list, and I even have a scruffy vintage film poster in my room. Unfortunately though, the character led storyline does not lend itself to the Future Cinema format and the experience was less convincing. The flashing multi-coloured dance floor was fun and there was a bit of good dancing but that was all.

Less time, money and creativity has gone into the Saturday Night Fever showing, the entrance was less dramatic, the hall was barely decorated and the characters/actors seemed lost amongst the audience. All in all I found the concept, for the first time, mediocre. Drinks were overpriced and it was confusing having stalls selling clothes and jewellery at the back of the venue. In fact the only good thing about the evening was the classic disco film, which I would have rather watched from the comfort of my own home.

More information on Future Cinema here.

Casablanca, Future Cinema, The Troxy

This Valentines Day Future Cinema staged another hit event with the classic love story, Casablanca. As usual this exceptional company have thought of everything and the immersive cinema experience is as thrilling as ever.

Prior to one’s arrival in Casablanca, everyone has to register with the French Protectorate in Morocco. One is issued with an identity card and instructions regarding the journey to Casablanca. After inspecting and searching, guests are admitted to Rick Blaine’s Cafe Americain (the magnificently converted 1930s cinema, The Troxy in Limehouse).

In true Future Cinema style, the venue is reinvented to mimic the setting from the film. Round tables are arranged in a ‘cabaret formation’ with a stage showcasing the musical and dancing talent. The brilliant retro band, Benoît Viellefon & His Orchestra play through the familiar songs and the audience is encouraged to gather around Sam’s piano while he entertains.

Visitors can try their luck in the Café’s own Casino, and dance into the night with the Casablanca cast who seamlessly blend into the audience. While you enjoy the night the great love story of Rick and Ilsa is relived around you.

All one’s senses are aroused in Casablanca. Strong martini cocktails are on sale at a small side bar, simple but delicious. Moroccan delicacies are served at the Blue Parrot Café by Moro of Exmouth Market; dishes including chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives, vegetable couscous with sweet onions, raisins and harissa, as well as sweet Moroccan pastries take the immersive cinema experience onto an olfactory level, recreating the smells and tastes of this Moroccan city.

After the fun and games, the film screen emerges from the ceiling for the great viewing. Fans of this motion picture will cry with fondness and newcomers will gasp in amazement. Casablanca is an immortal film and Future Cinema’s rendition is the best way to watch it.

Continues until 23 March, tickets available here.

www.futurecinema.co.uk