Chichester Cinema's Film Club is asking for funding to be able to continue screening monthly movies for the 18-25 year olds within the Chichester area, to encourage the love of film and the cinema experience.

As we know, Covid had, and still has, a deep impact on the younger generation. The severe restrictions that were placed upon them are still having a significant influence on their lives; for many around this age range, three of their formative years were marred by isolation, anxiety, instability, and a lack of socialising, this has now become the norm.

Young adults are less willing to enjoy going out either to the pub, the cinema, or the usual pastimes for people of that age. They utilise streaming services to watch film usually on their own, which only amplifies the isolation. Money also plays a large part in this issue; most social activities are now cost-prohibitive for many, due to the cost of living crisis.

Cinemas and film are a means of escapism, relaxation, and entertainment; they are also a form of education covering many genres and subjects. They are a catalyst for debate, and film culture is a form of art in itself. It is a location where groups can meet and share a common interest and social experience. In the short time we have been running the club, we have seen friendships being forged and confidence grow, especially for those who struggle with social anxiety, or are neurodiverse.

We want to grow this new young cinematic community, and as it evolves, create a young programmers group where they can choose their own films, learn new skills such as marketing, programming, projection, and inspire their creativity, communication, and confidence. They will then be able to take, apply and utilise all of these skills in their future careers.

The funding will help subsidise the the club, and enable us to break-even with these screenings.