Noir, horror, sci-fi: throughout the year, Kennington's Cinema Museum screens all types of films in its unique location in a former workhouse chapel.
Things get particularly personal on Saturday 25 October 2025, though, when the cinema invites you to celebrate Home Movie Day, by bringing in your own films. In particular, the Cinema Museum is interested in seeing your 8mm, Super8, 9.5mm and 16mm: maybe it's something that's been passed down through the family, or perhaps you've just stumbled across the film in a corner of the attic, or under the floorboards. The museum archivists will help you play the films, and give you advice on looking after them. You'll also get a chance, should you wish, to screen the film to a wider audience on the day.
This promises to be a day filled with camaraderie and nostalgia — as well as providing a glimpse into the personal lives of Londoners past. But don't just take our word for it. As the great Martin Scorsese says: "Home movies do not just capture the important private moments of our family's lives, but they are historical and cultural documents as well. Home Movie Day is a celebration of these films and the people who shot them. I urge anyone with an interest in learning more about how to care for and preserve their own personal memories to join in the festivities being offered in their community."
No home movie? Everyone's welcome to this free event. From 1pm, treasures from the archive of the Straight 8 filmmakers' competition will be screened, alongside some 1950s Chingford Newsreels and home movies from the Mason family, who attended last year's event with their films.
Home Movie Day, the Cinema Museum, Saturday 25 October 2025, 10.30am-4pm, free
