Cinema, the way it used to be…
In this day and age, cinema going is dominated by the multi-screen cineplex; there’s a session time to suit any schedule and a choc-top fit for the pickiest of tastebuds. The Blue Mountains, however, hasn’t a Hoyts, a Village or a Greater Union to its name, much less a Palace or a Dendy, let alone a Gold Class lounge. To catch the latest blockbuster or romantic comedy, locals make do with the rather beleaguered Edge or trek to Penrith Plaza. But for those mountainsiders who prefer their cinema art-house and independent, we make the pilgrimage to Mount Vic Flicks.
Located in the heritage listed village of Mount Victoria, the trek to Mount Vic Flicks can feel a bit like you’re going out of your way for a cinema fix. But don’t let that put you off, as owners Ron and Diane Bayley proudly present “Cinema, the way it used to be.” Ron manages the technical side of the business and operates the projector with Di on front of house, plus making the homemade treats stocked in the candy bar. When I asked how they choose the films they show, Ron told me that “films are somewhat like racehorses, they either have form or they don’t,” adding that the best films for their audience come out of the UK and Europe. Red Dog was a notable exception!
Situated in the former local community hall, there’s no room for a modern foyer or bar area at Mount Vic Flicks so if you’re meeting up with friends beforehand, try the Hotel Imperial round the corner or perhaps the movie and meal deal at the Victoria and Albert Guesthouse. The ticket box is snug and built for one; should you find yourself waiting in line, follow cinephiles are always happy to chat about the film you’re about to share. There’s no EFTPOS facility so be sure to have cash on hand. The candy bar is well stocked with homemade cakes and scones, plus the usual choc tops, popcorn and lollies. Tea and coffee are served in mugs, with soft drinks available by the can. I like the combination of a Shelley’s creaming soda and a bag of musk sticks. Be sure to sort your treats before the show commences as the candy bar closes as the lights go down.
Tickets are a very reasonable $10 an adult, $9 with a senior’s concession card and children under twelve, only $8. The Thursday morning session will set you back $8 and if you’re keen to make a day of it, you’ll pay just $16 for two consecutive features; a bargain in anyone’s language! Features change from week to week so grab a copy of the flyer that Ron and Di distribute around town and mark your calendar, if there’s something specific you’re eager to see. However, if you’ve got the urge to catch a film, a random check of the Mount Vic Flicks website never disappoints.
Periodically, Mount Vic Flicks hosts special screenings; March brings a senior’s screening of The King’s Speech and in April, they’ll commemorate 100 years since the sinking of the Titanic with James Cameron’s epic. On June 30th, the Bayleys will celebrate a very personal milestone, having screened films at Mount Vic Flicks for 25 years. Festivities are yet to be decided but for more information about any of these events, please click here.
With new releases available so quickly these days, whether it be DVD or download, you barely need to leave the house in order to keep up with the latest films. However, if you relish going to the cinema; the ritual of selecting your seat and purchasing your nibbles; the pleasure of sharing the experience with a like-minded audience, then make the effort to visit Mount Vic Flicks. It’s true, the chairs probably aren’t as comfy as your couch at home, though additional cushions are thoughtfully provided and no, the floor doesn’t slope like it does at the mainstream chains so you’ll want to choose your seat carefully. But what Mount Vic Flicks lacks in generic Hollywood glamour, it more than makes up for with passion and personality. And that’s where the grandeur lies; Mount Vic Flicks harks back to the days when going to the pictures was the highlight of the week; an experience rather that a mere past-time.
After 25 years running Mount Vic Flicks, retirement beckons Di and Ron Bayley. We can only cross our fingers and hope that new owners will be found and that they’ll be as committed to “Cinema, the way it used to be,” as Di and Ron have been. Here at the Cloudscape, we feel so fortunate to have such a theatre so close by. Whether you’re local or visiting the area, we can’t encourage you strongly enough to make Mount Vic Flicks your cinema of choice.
Mount Vic Flicks is located on Harley Avenue, in Mount Victoria and are open Thursday through Sunday. For more information about their programme, phone (02) 4787 1577 or visit their website, Mount Vic Flicks.
WORDS and IMAGES by KERIS MACARTHUR
We are having a meeting to discuss ways of keeping Mt.Vic Flicks open on Wednesday next . 12th June at the theatre at 7.00pm, all interested parties are invited
Thanks for the heads up, Marie!