| Date | |
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| Author | DCM |
| Categories | Exhibitor News |
This week, DCM Close Up talks to Kevin Markwick, owner of The Picture House in Uckfield. Kevin has managed The Picture House since 1994, when he inherited it from his father. Kevin is also an active voice of the industry, with his own personal blog, Cinema Owner Confidential and a regular podcast, The Kevin Markwick Show.
How did you end up working in cinema and what do you love about it?
My family took the cinema in 1964 when I was not quite 2 years old, so I literally grew up in a cinema. One of the many great things about the business, unlike most, is that we’re constantly changing what we sell. So there is always something new to look forward to.
What’s unique about your cinema?
It’s now nearly 100 years old, yet has never been behind the times.
Please tell us about any special events or screenings you run at your cinema.
The live by satellite events are phenomenally successful here. Opera, ballet and particularly the live theatre are generating a whole new revenue stream.
Kevin Markwick
What excites you most about the future of the cinema industry?
It’s true to say there is nothing new under the sun, and call me naïve but I think the wheel has turned slightly and independent cinemas run by people with passion may well be coming into a blue period.
What is your favorite movie and why?
Impossible to answer. Harold and Maude, Five Easy Pieces, 2001: A Space Odyssey, All About Eve, Performance, Three Colors Blue. Pick one.
What film role would you like to play why?
Any Bond villain. Because villains have more fun.
What do you think are the most iconic cinema ads and why?
Iconic and memorable may be different things. Cigarette ads were very memorable when I was growing up, but I’m not sure we would be allowed to call them iconic.