DCM Close up with Dorothy Smith of Zeffirellis

This week, DCM Close Up puts the spotlight on Dorothy Smith, the Managing Director of Zeffirellis in Ambleside. Dorothy tells us all about how her cinema has transformed itself into a destination site in Cumbria, offering fine-dining and world-class jazz alongside an innovative alternative content programme and, of course, the best movie releases. To feature your cinema in a future issue, please email rebecca.rau@dcm.co.uk.

How did you end up working in cinema and what do you love about it?

My brother, Derek opened Zeffirellis 32 years ago. Five years later he asked my husband and me to join him in another venture. In 1992 we became part of Zeffirellis itself and my interest in film developed from then. I love our business with a passion. The escapism and entertainment that can be enjoyed by people of all ages by simply sitting in a seat and allowing a new and exciting world to open before their eyes is a truly, wonderful thing.

What’s unique about your cinema?

Over the years Zeffirellis, has grown from one screen with a small café/bar into a 5-screen, 2-restaurant and live jazz bar venue. I believe our uniqueness lies in the experience we present to our customers. For a set amount we offer an all-inclusive ‘cinema deal’ where you can enjoy a two course meal in one of our fabulous restaurants. You can dine either before or after the film of your choice with the best seats in the house reserved for you then follow it up with some live jazz, played by some world- class musicians.  This experience can be taken anytime during the day or night and is kept at a very realistic price, allowing it to be accessible to everyone. What more can you want from a good night out?

Dorothy Smith, Managing Director of Zeffirellis in Ambleside

Please tell us about any special events or screenings you run at your cinema.

As an independent cinema we have the opportunity to be more flexible with programming. Knowing our clientèle well enables us to cater to their likes and dislikes, whilst at the same time encouraging them to ‘dip their toes’ into something they may not have previously considered. We were in at the inception of the ‘Alternative Content’ concept and have been lucky enough to screen all of the National Theatre and Royal Opera House events. We screen ballet, opera and theatre from around the world. The feedback we’ve received for these has been incredible. To my mind this has had a tremendously positive knock-on effect of re-introducing the older audience back into the cinema; not just for cultural screenings, but purely for an entertaining night out. We have also hosted numerous ‘Mountain Festival’ films followed by Q&As from some distinguished speakers such as Sir Chris Bonnington.

What excites you most about the future of the cinema industry?

I feel that cinema is always evolving. Just when you think nothing else will change, something always does. For me personally, the digital transition has been exciting and liberating, allowing much more freedom and flexibility in programming. I’m an enormous believer in investing in our business. Looking at new technology, and how new concepts can improve our customer’s experience are paramount to our success.

What is your favourite movie and why? 

Sorry, can’t be very deep or profound with this answers I’m afraid as I simply adore My Fair Lady. I’m an enormous fan of musicals to start with and seeing the beautiful Audrey Hepburn in those fabulous gowns never ceases to please me.

Sadly, don’t think I can remember any of the shoes she wears.

What film role would you like to play why?

Can I be Eliza Doolittle please?

What do you think are the most iconic cinema ads and why?

I love the Nicole Kidman, Chanel No. 5 ad. It’s a fairy-tale with a rather handsome young man. And if Chanel No. 5 would bring me a prince like that I’d certainly give it a go. The Guinness ads are always great, as are the Coke ads (little concerned now, as I think they all have handsome young men in them). Finally,  I’m always intrigued to see what the new Volkswagen  ‘See film differently’ is going to surprise us with. Lateral thinking at its best.

Is there anything else that you would like to add about your cinema or yourself?

A number of years ago we had our own Zeffirellis ad made. Basically, it’s an animated Marlon Brando sat at a desk talking to someone on the phone about the  ‘Zeffirellis Movie Deal’ he finishes by saying, in a very Marlon Brando voice  ‘The Zeffirellis Movie Deal, it’s an offer you can’t refuse’. I think it’s great and our customers seem to love it too

So…………..

Whenever you’re in Ambleside, make a point of popping into to Zeffirellis.

It’s an offer you can’t refuse….