HISTORY

The David Lean Cinema has always been more than a place to watch films. It is a place created by people who believe that cinema matters—and who cared enough to keep it alive.

The cinema first opened its doors in Croydon Clocktower in 1995, bringing audiences together to discover the best of British and world cinema, classic re-releases and new films worth seeing on the big screen. When the cinema closed in 2011 as part of wider council arts cuts, the community came together to fight for its future.

The Save David Lean Cinema Campaign was formed in May 2011 by people who wanted to see the cinema return. Over the following years, the campaign kept the spirit of the cinema alive, screening around 70 films in venues across Croydon, building a community of supporters and proving that there was still a place for independent cinema in the town.

In March 2014, the David Lean Cinema reopened its doors. Since then, it has continued as a volunteer-led independent cinema, bringing audiences together to enjoy carefully selected films, special events and shared experiences on the big screen. In 2015, we became a Community Interest Company (CIC), reflecting our commitment to serving the community that helped bring the cinema back.

Today, the David Lean Cinema continues to be powered by the passion of volunteers, audiences and supporters. Our story is one of resilience, care and a belief that great cinema has the power to connect us—all because people chose to keep the lights on.