Memories of Art Deco cinema wanted
BBCA pair of documentary filmmakers want people to come forward with their memories of an Art Deco cinema.
Maddie Rush and Sydney Anderson, both 21 and co-founders of production company Wundergem, said they wanted to draw attention to The Majestic in Bridgnorth, a striking 1937 building which holds personal memories for one of the filmmakers.
In an age of multiplex sites with effects-led presentation, the 400-seat venue still has many of its original features, and Anderson said the response to an appeal for people's stories had so far been "incredible", with many happy recollections shared.
She said stories already discovered included "people talking about how they've [had] their first dates there, they've met their future husband or wife there".
Anderson, who is from the area, said one of her happiest memories was going to see the final Harry Potter film at The Majestic.
"I was bawling my eyes out," she recalled of the young wizard's cinematic send-off.
She said it was important to save memories like hers while also recognising the importance of the cinema to the local community.
"By creating this documentary, we're hoping to preserve the history and the memories associated with The Majestic," she said.
"That will hopefully remain a reminder to my generation and future ones to visit the cinema and show that places with meaning and heart do still exist."
She described The Majestic as "a very special cinema" because of its distinctive design.
As well as the customer's experience, the filmmakers are also interested in those of staff.
Manager James Frizzell, who has worked at the venue for 20 years, said he was of the view that many people had supported the cinema during the period "just because it's old-fashioned".
And while he conceded it had had to move with the times and install new projectors, nostalgia was still proving a major draw.
Anderson said: "People come together in Bridgnorth, which is really nice to see.
"[The Majestic has] brought the community together for years.
"Through all of Bridgnorth's changes, and worldwide crises, whether that be WW2 or energy crises or even the pandemic, the cinema has remained standing.
"Things are changing so quickly around us, that it's nice to be reminded of what small businesses and historical buildings remain close by that need our support."
Those willing to share memories for possible inclusion in the film have been asked to make contact via social media.
The two women plan to film their interviews in July and hope to show their documentary at The Majestic, and also online, later in the summer.
Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
