When it comes to turning cinema into an 'event', you've got to hand it to Future Cinema. They've taken various venues in London by storm in the past year or so with early Secret Cinema screenings of the likes of Anvil! The Complete Story Of Anvil! complete with a set from the band. Last night it was Edinburgh's turn to get in on the act, with a special Edinburgh Film Festival premiere screening of All Tomorrow's Parties followed by a set by a 'secret band'.
Taking thematic inspiration from the Fifties footage which is contained in the documentary - a celebration of the Bowlie Weekender phenomenon started by Belle and Sebastian - the Edinburgh Picturehouse was transformed into a holiday camp for the night. Cinemagoers were greeted by hula dancing girls - braving the last of the Edinburgh evening sunshine in nothing but grass skirts and seashells - an organist, and three donkeys, who looked surprisingly relaxed given the rush-hour traffic.
The film itself is the sort of thing which will suit fans or those with some knowledge of the music scene it celebrates. A high energy romp through 10 years of the music event, it's fair to say those who bring something to it will doubtless get most from it. Certainly the sell-out crowd at the Picturehouse - many of whom had actually submitted some of the footage used - lapped it all up.
Following the screening the 'secret band' - somewhat given away by the early presence of a drumkit with their name on it, turned out to be Mogwai and, as I left to catch the last bus home they were raising the roof.
Luke Morris, the film’s producer said: “When we arrived at the venue to find three donkeys outside and a full marching band playing Battles’ Atlas we knew we were in for a good night. To screen the film in front of 800 people then have it brought to life with a surprise Mogwai set was a great way to launch.”
Following its Edinburgh premiere, there will be a series of special events across the UK in September to tie-in with the DVD release.
Visit the websites: www.ourtrueintentisallforyourdelight.com and their Facebook page for more information.
