From reel to real – a systematic review of the evolution and relevance of live cinema as a contemporary cinematic experience

The following is a summary of a paper presented on the topic as part The Future of Cinema research presentation during Southampton Film Week, November 2023.

Introduction

In recent years, live cinema has emerged as a contemporary mode of experiential entertainment, offering audiences novel and immersive experiences that extend beyond traditional cinematic boundaries. This systematic literature review aims to identify, analyse, and synthesize existing research on live cinema, with a focus on determining future lines of inquiry, pinpointing new research questions, and identifying gaps in the current body of knowledge. A comprehensive search for recent journal articles on the topic yielded 21 primary studies for review. The findings reveal that live cinema events, such as Secret Cinema and immersive cinematic experiences at venues like the Prince Charles Cinema, are characterized by their unique blend of film viewing, interactive elements, and participatory audience engagement. These events often disrupt conventional viewing strategies, fostering active fandom and blurring the lines between spectator and performer. However, despite their popularity, there are concerns related to branding strategies, commercial culture, and the authenticity of the experience. Furthermore, the studies underscore the importance of the communal aspect of these events, the emotional investment they elicit, and the specialized relationship between the audience and the text. In conclusion, while live cinema offers a rich avenue for experiential entertainment research, there remains a need for further exploration of its economic implications, its impact on traditional cinema, and the broader cultural shifts driving its popularity. Future research should also delve deeper into audience perceptions, the role of technology, and the sustainability of this entertainment mode.

Stepping Into the Movie: The Magic of Live Cinema

Imagine you’re wandering the starlit streets of Gotham City, seeking clues to unravel the Joker’s latest scheme, or perhaps you’re sipping a cocktail at Rick’s Café Américain, mingling with characters straight out of “Casablanca.” This isn’t a dream or a scene from a video game—it’s live cinema, a revolutionary form of entertainment that’s transforming movie nights into immersive, unforgettable experiences.

What Exactly Is Live Cinema?

Live cinema breaks the fourth wall, inviting the audience to step inside the film’s world. It combines elements of traditional cinema with live performance and interactive media, turning passive viewers into active participants. This isn’t just watching a movie; it’s living it. In the bustling landscape of digital streaming and multiplexes, live cinema offers a communal, interactive adventure. It’s nostalgia and novelty rolled into one, a testament to the timeless appeal of shared stories and experiences.

For the purposes of this study, Live Cinema refers to a cinematic experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of film viewing. It is not just about watching a film; it’s about immersing oneself in the film’s universe. This can include interactive elements, participatory audience engagement, and often involves a blend of film, live performance, and sometimes even interactive gaming elements. The aim is to create a more holistic and immersive experience for the audience, making them feel a part of the film’s narrative rather than just passive observers.

In the cinematic world, there’s a clear understanding that live cinema stands apart from event cinema, which involves broadcasting performances like theatre and opera to theatres across the country. While the average viewer might not use the term “live cinema,” experts recognise this distinction and categorize it into three main types: enhanced, augmented, and participatory (Atkinson & Kennedy 2016). A wide variety of film genres are showcased in live cinema, with silent films leading the pack at 18%. Cult and specific genre films account for 27%, and there’s a notable opportunity to expand in the realm of world cinema titles.

Spotlight on Innovation: Secret Cinema and The Prince Charles Cinema

Let’s take a closer look at two pioneers in the live cinema space:

• Secret Cinema has transformed the concept of movie watching since its inception in London, 2007. Attendees might find themselves assigned a character role from the film, completing missions that intertwine with the narrative, or exploring elaborate sets that replicate iconic movie scenes. Imagine the thrill of dodging TIE fighters at a “Star Wars” event or solving mysteries in the whimsical world of Wes Anderson’s films.

• The Prince Charles Cinema (PCC) in London offers a slightly different take. Known for its sing-along screenings and cult classics, PCC is a haven for cinephiles seeking a communal vibe. It’s a place where you can “watch like a grown-up… enjoy like a child,” as attendees often say. The cinema’s eclectic programming, from rare indie gems to beloved blockbusters, caters to a diverse audience, creating a unique sense of community among moviegoers.

Challenges on the Horizon

Despite its burgeoning popularity, live cinema navigates a tightrope walk between authenticity and commercialization. The essence of live cinema lies in creating genuine, immersive experiences that resonate with audiences beyond the dazzle of branding and marketing.

The Heart of Live Cinema: Community and Connection

At the core of live cinema is its power to forge emotional bonds and a sense of belonging among its audience. This isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about creating a space where people can connect, share, and become part of something larger than themselves.

Your Role in the Next Act

As live cinema continues to evolve, so does its relationship with technology and audience expectations. The future promises even more innovative ways to merge film with reality, offering us all a chance to not just watch stories unfold but to live them.

We’d love to hear from you—have you ever attended a live cinema event? What was it like? Share your stories in the comments below or on social media using #LiveCinemaMagic.

Live cinema is more than a trend; it’s a vibrant new chapter in the story of film and performance art. As we stand on the brink of this exciting frontier, one thing is clear: the possibilities are as limitless as our imagination.

References and Further Reading:

• Atkinson, S., & Kennedy, H. W. (2016). Exploring the live cinema landscape. Live Cinema Network.
• McCulloch, R., & Crisp, V. (2016). Finding authenticity and community at the Prince Charles Cinema.
• Pett, E. (2016). The immersive world of Secret Cinema.

Whether you’re a seasoned live cinema enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s never been a better time to explore this fascinating intersection of film, theatre, and interactive art. The stage is set, and the next adventure is just a ticket away.