A cult London cinema beloved by Quentin Tarantino is at risk of closure amid fears its landlord is plotting a redevelopment of the site. The cinema claims its landlord, which is ultimately controlled by Asif Aziz, a millionaire developer, is demanding a rent increase significantly above market rates and laying the groundwork to shut the business and redevelop the property.
It hosts around films and events each year, attracting more than , customers. The venue is known for its seasonal and off-beat programming , including all-nighters dedicated to the Jurassic Park series and Arnold Schwarzenegger films and festive sing-alongs to The Muppet Christmas Carol. It also shows 70mm pressings of classic films and rarely screened foreign language movies.
The Prince Charles said its landlord Zedwell LSQ, which is ultimately controlled by Mr Aziz, was demanding a rent increase significantly above market rates. The cinema, which is owned and operated by Bubble Chamber, plans to launch legal proceedings in an effort to secure a renewal at market rate and protection from any redevelopment projects.
It is also asking customers and fans to sign a petition demanding the removal of the redevelopment clause.
The site first opened as a theatre in before gaining notoriety in the s as a pornographic film house. The cinema generated headlines in when it announced it had no intention of changing its name ahead of the coronation of Charles III. Last year it was forced to cancel the world premiere of The Last Screenwriter, a film written entirely using artificial intelligence AI , following a backlash from customers and across the industry. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism.
