The Mockingbird Cinema, one of the best independent film screens and venues in Birmingham, has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to develop a second screen at its home in The Custard Factory. The fully independently run venue plans to increase screening capacity and event space to offer more choice for Birmingham’s blossoming screen industries in line with unprecedented growth and development in the city’s ‘Creative Quarter’ – a move supported by film professionals across the region.
Announcing a campaign to raise £20,000, the 98-seat Digbeth film hub is now calling on movie and culture fans from across the country to back filmmaking in the Midlands by getting behind the campaign.
Since opening in 2015, The Mockingbird Cinema has hosted hundreds of independent and blockbuster film showings, regional and national premieres including for BBC television productions, ‘in conversation with’ events and panel discussions, live editing workshops, movie marathons – including back to back Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings presentations, outdoor film offerings, and even dog-friendly screenings.
Why and How to Support
The Mockingbird Cinema’s plans for expansion and growth come at a crucial time for the Digbeth area, which is currently seeing major construction for new infrastructure, including numerous residential developments, the extension of the Midlands Metro line along Deritend, and the construction of the HS2 terminus at Curzon Street.
In return for donations to the project, supporters will receive rewards such as private screenings for family and friends, thank you message credits and adverts shown before films watched by thousands of filmgoers, alongside ‘wine and cinema ticket’ goody bags.
Support the Second Screen here.
Mockingbird Supporters
“It’s such great news that The Mockingbird is planning a second screen. As an affordable option for film makers to share and premiere their films in the city it’s important that its future is secure through investment from fans.”
– Sindy Campbell, Head of Film Birmingham
“Since setting up the school in Digbeth, Lee and the team have been incredibly supportive. We have hosted open days, lectures and attended film screenings and Q&As at The Mockingbird Cinema. I’m delighted the second screen is coming soon. Please join me in supporting them – just as they support the Digbeth community.”
– Hannah Stevenson, Principal at the newly established Screen and Film School Birmingham
“The Mockingbird Cinema is one the unsung heroes of Digbeth and Birmingham’s cultural and entertainment landscape. The venue has played an integral part in our festival over the last few years, and audiences always love the laid back atmosphere and vibe there. We’re massively grateful for their support, and a second screen would be nothing less than this city’s indie film scene deserves. Please do contribute if you can.”
– Sam Groves, Head of Programme for Flatpack Festival
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