There is little that beats a good film-watching experience. With cinema attendance revived after the spectacle of Barbenheimer and new films constantly hitting streaming, more and more students are getting interested in film.
However, as the cost of living remains high, it might seem impossible to fuel this interest on a student budget. So, here are some tips and tricks for the student cinephile!
For those who want an all-round cinema, it’s hard to beat Showroom. Located near the station, Showroom boasts a diverse programme of both blockbusters and independent films, and even hosts a film quiz every month!
Their CINE 26 scheme guarantees a £5 ticket on any film in regular programming, as well as 20% off food and drinks – a pint and pizza has never felt this good. Keep an eye out for Showroom’s special screenings, as they also host events involving the creators of smaller films.
If you fancy something a little more luxurious, The Light is the place to be. A 9-screen complex in the Moor shopping centre, its state-of-the-art facilities lend themselves to big-budget films. A student ticket is £8.95, which though on the pricier side, is a great deal for the quality screens.
Nestled in an alley off High Street lies Curzon Sheffield. With its Grade-II listed exterior and multicoloured seating, it is a great compromise between the intimacy of the Showroom and the technology of The Light.
As part of the Under 25 membership, off-peak film screenings run at £6, whereas peak times go for £9. As the winter draws in, their rooftop terrace is a prime location to watch the sun go down after a screening – try that for a Wednesday afternoon break!
Finally, no Sheffield film guide is complete without the SU’s very own Film Unit. At £3 for a ticket, the price is unbeatable. Located in the Nelson Mandela auditorium, it is the most conveniently located of the lot, too. With a programme ranging from Bollywood mini-seasons to Christmas classics, you’ll be sure to find a new gem.
Another tip is to keep an eye out within your department; free screenings are more common than you might think! For example, the Law department’s recent screening of Prima Facie at the Wave was free.
A series called Lectures on Gender and Sexuality has also been organised uni-wide, one of which was a free screening of Ames Pennington’s breakout mockumentary TOPS, at Showroom. As well as being a great opportunity to hear emerging voices in British film, the event was followed by free refreshments!
However, while it can be rewarding, going to a cinema is a time-consuming experience. Sometimes, you just want to curl up at home and watch something great. In the age of Netflix price hikes and oversaturation, it can be hard to sift through the noise.
Enter MUBI: a carefully curated streaming service that spotlights creations from all across the globe. Recent seasons have included a spotlight on Agnes Varda, and a collection of “Midnight Movies”, if that’s your speed.
Priced at £7.99 a month, which is cheaper than a standard Netflix subscription, it is well worth the investment for the quality on offer.
Finally, another overlooked streaming service is offered by the university library itself. Box of Broadcasts houses a surprisingly vast collection of films, as well as reruns being broadcast on TV at the time. It can be accessed for free through the Library page.
While staying connected to the world of film seems like a daunting task, there are an array of ways to keep up the habit. Whether it’s a celebratory trip to The Light, an afternoon visit to Curzon or a well-deserved rest day with a MUBI film, there’s something for everyone. Although, remember, you wouldn’t steal a car…
