New cinema network brings films to rural audiences

A new regional initiative, Cinema North West, has been launched with the aim of bringing cinema closer to audiences across the North West.

Operating under the Cinema North West banner, seven venues — including Ballinamore’s Island Theatre, The Glens Arts Centre in Manorhamilton and The Barracks in Dromahair — will collaborate over the next two months to present a shared programme of films.

The initiative is being driven by filmmaker Johnny Gogan, who said the project is addressing a long-standing gap in access to independent cinema in the region.

“A lot of independent films don’t get released in the North West because distributors don’t feel that the audience is there in big enough numbers,” he said.

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“What we’re doing is taking the film for the week and moving it around the various venues — bringing the film closer to the audience rather than asking people to travel.”

The programme will run across April and May, with films rotating between venues, allowing audiences multiple opportunities to attend screenings locally.

Gogan said the approach removes the burden on individual venues to commit to full cinema runs, while also making it easier for audiences to engage.

“It’s a big decision to say, ‘I’m going to drive 20 miles to the nearest multiplex to see a film that I might just wait to watch at home,’” he said.

“But if the film is closer to home, going to the cinema becomes more of a community event.”

The initiative will primarily showcase Irish films, alongside a mix of international productions and co-productions, including Irish-Ukrainian titles. Organisers also hope to feature films made within the region.

“We’re making films in this region, and part of this is about showing those films here as well,” Gogan said.

The project is being rolled out initially as a pilot, with organisers aiming to build momentum if audience demand is there.

“This is really about testing the waters to see if people have an appetite for it,” he said.

“If we get even a modest audience response, we’ll be in good shape.”

With ticket prices expected to be lower than traditional multiplex cinemas, Gogan believes the initiative could also offer a new kind of social outlet in rural areas.

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“In a lot of places, the only option for going out is the pub — and that’s not necessarily everyone’s cup of tea,” he said.

“People still want to go out, meet others and share an experience. Cinema can offer that.” The programme will include a screening at The Barracks in Drumahair on April 11, as part of efforts to revive the cinema experience outside major towns.

Further details, including participating venues and screening schedules, are available at the Cinema North West website.