Bristol’s week in film: August 21-27 2020

Even the weather seems to be doing its bit in what promises to be a big week for the film industry. Three more Bristol cinemas – the Showcase Avonmeads and Vues at Cribbs Causeway and Longwell Green – reopen their doors on Friday 21 August. Then Christopher Nolan’s Tenet opens on Wednesday 26. These events are not unrelated, as Nolan has been unofficially appointed as the saviour of cinema with the first post-lockdown blockbuster release. He’s currently topping the box office chart with the 10th anniversary re-release of Inception, which bodes well. Many cinemas are celebrating by bringing back plenty of his other films, including all three parts of the Batman trilogy.

Of course, more cinemas means more choice and the likes of Candyman and the original Karate Kid join this week’s bulging programme of classic reissues along with, er, the first three Twilight films. Event cinema is back with a vengeance too, albeit in the form of greatest hits ranging from Fleabag to the Australian Ballet’s Coppelia.

If you prefer to go al fresco, the second half of Ashton Gate’s drive-in cinema bash takes place this weekend with screenings of Grease and Mamma Mia!

Those who still aren’t planning to go out may like to know that the Slapstick Festival’s online Big Film Quiz, hosted by stand-up comedian and festival regular Lucy Porter, has just been moved forward to Thursday 27 August. Places at this one need to be booked and rely on a donation, but the gift can be as little as £1. Go here for details of how to join in.

Before anyone else mentions it: yes, we know the search function in the film listings doesn’t work – and, indeed, has never worked. Maybe the techies will fix this eventually. In the meantime, you can find more info about what’s showing where, with screening times, by following the links below.