London’s latest cinema offering is a unique, dedicated one, billed as the city’s ‘first dedicated LGBTQ+ cinema’, and it’s now open as an independent cinema and bar.
Freshly arrived in Bermondsey, The Arzner – which is named after the pioneering lesbian filmmaker Dorothy Arzner who made early examples of films analyzing the role of women in society through the 1930s and 40s – is opening in the place of the Kino cinema, which was forced to close in January 2023.
The Arzner is operated by Simon Burke and Piers Greenlees, who recently opened the area’s first LGBTQ+ pub The Rising SE1.
Piers Greenlees, Co-Founder of The Arzner said: “The UK film industry is globally respected and responsible for producing some of the most notable LGBTQ+ films. We are excited to provide a new cultural home for queer cinema in the capital.”
“The Arzner, named after a forgotten legend and vital queer filmmaker Dorthy Arzner, will be a new cultural space for the community.”
Avid cinephiles can get a membership for £25 a month, which provides 2 free cinema tickets a month, 10% off food and drinks at both The Arzner and The Rising, exclusive member-only screenings, special events, and Q&A’s, plus no booking fees!
The cinema holds around 50 people, and a further 150 in the cocktail bar, which is open alongside it. The space is fully accessible, meaning all are welcome to enjoy the cinema and events at the venue. The bar at The Arzner serves decadent cocktails, but the founders have emphasised that venue is not solely drinking-focused, in their mission to ensure everybody feels welcome to visit.
Credit: @risingse1, via IG
The Arzner is now open in Bermondsey. You’ll find it at 10 Bermondsey Square, SE1 3UN (nearest station is Bermondsey).