Ranked the second city in the UK (in numerous polls), mainly down to its cultural prowess, Manchester has a vibrant cinema scene. A compelling local film festival is ‘Grimmfest’ - the annual horror film festival - which shows new and classic horror, cult, fantasy and Sci-fi movies. If you are very interested in cinema, you could join the Manchester film co-op, a film club that focuses on screening movies not available in the cinema.
Manchester cinema is probably most famous for producing the cult classic 24 Hour Party People, starring Steve Coogan as Factory Records founder Tony Wilson. This 2002 comedy-drama charts the development of the ‘Madchester’ music scene from its roots in punk, through the rise and fall of Joy Division, to the birth of the Hacienda nightclub.
There are many cinemas in Manchester to choose from. For premium IMAX viewing, The Printworks houses one of the four IMAX screens in England. For a truly cultural experience, catch a foreign language film at Cornerhouse, an arts centre hosting regular film ‘seasons’ like Matinee Classics or Chinese Film.
For a taste of history, head to AMC cinemas, based in a former railway goods warehouse built in 1898. An unmissable cinema experience in Manchester is watching a movie in the outdoor cinema in Spinningfields. Relax in a deckchair and enjoy an al fresco movie classic. You can also experience a classic American drive in experience at Route 66. Check Groupon’s Manchester cinema deals to save money on a great night out.