A Night To Remember

We have been talking about supporting the Billericay Community Cinema and had tried to arrange a special showing for Billericay’s Service clubs outside the normal schedule, in order to help publicise this local initiative.  Unfortunately, since the events are wholly staffed by volunteers, this did not prove possible.  

So, in September 2023 we decided to support it by block buying a number of seats to a “regular” show.

Real Classics

What should it be?  A recent blockbuster from the last few years, or an older classic?  In the event we settled on a classic show of “Silent” films – Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton movies from approx. 100 years ago.

19 members and partners/friends voted to buy tickets and go along for a show on Thursday April 4, arriving from just before 7.00 p.m. for the start of the show at 7.30 p.m.  A good thing too, as it gave an opportunity to buy a cocktail (only £3.50) or other drink and some snacks before the film started.  The cocktails were definitely a “best seller”.

Silent films were almost always accompanied by a pianist or organist matching the action on the screen with live music.  As regular attendees know, Billericay Community Cinema is extremely lucky to have this same service provided by professional silent movie accompanist Costas Fotopoulos.  Costas provides musical accompaniment to silent film performances at the British Film Institute in London and works internationally as a composer and arranger for film, the stage and the concert hall, and as a concert, silent film and jazz pianist. He is an Associate of the Royal Academy of Music (ARAM) and is a renowned for his “silent film” accompaniments.

Physical Humour and Comedy

Adam Adshead, Chairman of the Community Cinema, did his usual introduction to the films, always mentioning some interesting facts about each film and … we were off.  First on was  a Charlie Chaplin short. “The Immigrant” (1917) about the misadventures of Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character as he arrives in the United States as an immigrant, facing hardships, hunger, and comical misunderstandings.  Despite the challenges, he finds love with a fellow immigrant and displays Chaplin’s signature physical humour and social commentary.  The film masterfully blends comedy with poignant themes of immigration, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream, making it a timeless and socially relevant cinematic gem.

An interesting comparator with the mores of today was the final scenes where Chaplin forcefully carries his “love” into the marriage licence office against her struggles.  Would that be acceptable today??

After the interval - a chance to buy more drinks and snacks - the show continued with Buster Keaton starring as “The Battling Butler” (1926).   This featured pampered millionaire Alfred Butler who, seeking the approval of his prospective father-in-law, masquerades as a tough boxer. Buster Keaton navigated mistaken identities and confrontations, and a series of laugh-out-loud situations ensued. Keaton’s impeccable physical comedy and clever use of visual gags shone through in this film, especially in the brilliantly choreographed boxing match that showcased his extraordinary athleticism and comedic genius.

A very entertaining evening enjoyed by all who attended.