Neandra Etienne reports on a new cinematic chapter for Stratford

The SOURCE, a newly re-launched cultural venue born from a collaboration between the University of East London and Newham Council, proudly announces a new initiative: Film Nights.

Launching on 3 June with the critically acclaimed film FLOW, this new cinema programme is designed to be both socially accessible and culturally engaging. The SOURCE priorities community engagement and cinematic appreciation and all this for just £5. As a special launch offer, tickets for the first screening are just £2.

As part of its wider cultural mission, Film Nights will periodically include post-screening conversations, Q&As, panel discussions moderated by film journalists and critics, and talent or expert voices connected to the film’s themes. These sessions aim to raise dialogue, reflection, and critical thinking, values central to The SOURCE’s ethos.

Kritee Gower, Executive Director of The SOURCE and the YES Partnership at University of East London, and the visionary behind FILM NIGHTS, explains: “Cinematic storytelling is a powerful tool to help cinema lovers to reflect on life and society. It’s not just about entertainment — it’s about building awareness, encouraging empathy, and creating shared moments of understanding. Especially for the community and the city, we see cinema as a way to both relax and engage deeply with the world around them.”

Following the closure of Picturehouse East in Stratford, this new programme fills a vital gap offering a fresh, high-quality, and affordable alternative.

The initiative is generously supported by FILM LONDON, a non-profit organisation that works to sustain, promote, and develop London as a global content production hub. FILM LONDON supports the development of the city’s new and emerging filmmaking talent and invests in a diverse and rich film culture.

Attendees to the Film Nights launch party, on 3 June from 6 pm, were welcomed with free popcorn. Drinks are also available to purchase at the Café.

Screenings begin at 6:30pm, with doors and the Café at THE SOURCE open from 6 pm

Upcoming screenings:

Tuesday 17th June – Sister Midnight
Tuesday 24th June – Memoir of a Snail
Tuesday 1st July – How to Have Sex
Tuesday 8th July – To a Land Unknown

More details and the full programme will be announced shortly via The SOURCE’s official channels.

For more information and to book visit: https://www.uel.ac.uk/the-source

Follow them on Instagram @thesourcestratford for behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive photos, and daily updates.

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