Flourishing Communities with “Reel Memories” Film Screenings
Portsmouth Film Society is delighted to announce receiving generous support from the National Lottery to provide free film screenings for seniors, including individuals living with dementia, those with learning disabilities, and their families. This initiative will also reach communities facing economic hardship, ensuring much needed access to inclusive cinema experiences for all.
Bringing Cinema to Everyone
Our mission is to create welcoming and relaxed screenings for individuals who may struggle to access mainstream cinemas. Many people, particularly caregivers and their loved ones, face barriers—financial, logistical, or social—that prevent them from attending traditional screenings. Whether it’s an individual with dementia who enjoys singing along to childhood classics or a parent who worries about their disabled child’s unpredictable behavior, we are committed to providing an accepting and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. Our “relaxed screenings” are designed to be more accessible and welcoming for people with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other neurodiverse needs, by adjusting the environment to reduce sensory overload and stress.
Our Screening Program
- Fortnightly Screenings at Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre – A regular opportunity for the community to gather, offering moments of respite and connection.
- Free Two Outdoor Seafront Screenings – Special summer showings to bring the magic of cinema to Portsmouth’s beautiful coastline.
- Staff Support & Outreach – Ensuring accessible, inclusive events by providing trained staff to assist audiences at screenings, including those outside our venue.
- The Reel Memories first film will be Brief Encounter. Brief Encounter is a 1945 British romantic drama film directed by David Lean from a screenplay by Noël Coward, based on his 1936 one-act play Still Life. Brief Encounter tells the story of two married strangers living in pre-World War II England, whose chance meeting at a railway station leads to a brief yet intense emotional affair, disrupting their otherwise conventional lives. FREE ENTRY
- First Outdoor “Reel Memories” cinema will be Singin’ in the Rain’ U (1952) on 14th June 9pm at Southsea Skatepark field – FREE SCREENING (1hr 43min) “Singin’ in the Rain” is a beloved classic that not only showcases the pinnacle of studio filmmaking and the transition from silent to talkie films but also embodies the joy and nostalgia of the Golden Age of Hollywood, making it a cherished piece of popular culture.
A Vital Service for Our Community
Many of our former attendees have expressed how caregiving responsibilities or financial constraints have prevented them from returning to the cinema. We have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by individuals with dementia and their families, and we are committed to breaking down barriers to social engagement.
One visitor shared that he no longer takes his wife, who has dementia, to the cinema because he worries she will sing or try to dance during black-and-white classics. Another parent struggles to bring her disabled son along with his siblings due to his disruptive behavior. Our relaxed performances will provide them with a safe space where they can enjoy films without fear of judgment.
Beyond entertainment, these screenings have the potential to evoke cherished memories, fostering moments of joy and connection, particularly for individuals with dementia. We have seen the profound impact of sing-along dementia groups, and we aim to extend that experience to the big screen, creating lasting, special memories for families.
Accessibility & Inclusion
Portsmouth Film Society is dedicated to making cinema accessible to all. Our venue Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre features:
- Step-free access and a flat-level layout with hard flooring suitable for wheelchairs.
- Adaptive seating arrangements to accommodate wheelchair users and those with mobility aids.
- Accessible public transport links to encourage environmental sustainability and ease of travel.
- Printed advertising to reach community members who may not have access to digital platforms.
Through this project, we will support individuals with dementia, learning disabilities, and other conditions affecting social inclusion, as well as their families, partners, and caregivers. By fostering a more inclusive cinema culture, we hope to reintegrate those who have felt isolated, strengthening our community as we move forward together.
Statement from Aysegul Epengin, Director of Portsmouth Film Society
“We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the joy of cinema, regardless of their personal circumstances. With the generous support of the National Lottery, Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre continues to champion inclusion and support in our community. We believe these film screenings will not only evoke fond memories but also provide much-needed social engagement and respite for caregivers. Thank you to the National Lottery for funding this vital initiative.”
“Portsmouth Creates are pleased to support this important project. We strongly believe that access and inclusion through creative activities aren’t just about participation —they’re about empowering us all to tell our stories, build confidence, and spark change from within. Resulting in more inclusive and joined up communities. Gemma Nichols, Portsmouth Createsouthsea”
Ticket Reservation Information
Tickets for screenings and events can be reserved through the Portsmouth Film Society website or in person at the Southsea Cinema & Arts Centre box office. All “Reel Memories” screenings are free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all. Caregivers must show their badges.
About Portsmouth Film Society
Portsmouth Film Society is a non-profit community cinema dedicated to showcasing diverse and thought-provoking films. Through screenings, events, and community outreach, we aim to enrich cultural experiences and spark meaningful conversations.
Contact:
Portsmouth Film Society
Southsea Community Cinema & Arts Centre
1-3 Palmerston Road
Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3QQ
www.southseacinema.co.uk
FB: @pompeyfilms @Southseacinema
X: @portsmouthfilms @southsecinema
