 |
| Seven Samurai (1954) Wednesday 30 September |
Escape Studios Film Society is back tonight with a new line up for the first term of this year at Escape.
Most screenings take place at 5pm on a Wednesday (with exception of the Halloween screening).
The new season is titled “Masters of Cinema” and is a film season showcasing some of the all time greatest films, beginning with The Seven Samurai tonight at 5pm.
#1. Seven Samurai (1954)
Date: Wednesday 30 September 2026; Time: 17:00; Rating: PG; Runtime: 3h 27m; Room: 10th Floor Breakout Space
A titan of cinema, a masterpiece and widely considered one of the greatest films of all time, Seven Samurai is essential viewing for any aspiring film creatives. Directed by legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, the film follows a rural village in 16th century Japan who face an imminent attack from bandits. To defend themselves they employ seven samurai who train the villagers. Methodical in its approach and thrilling in its action this film will sure to delight students.
#2. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
Date: Wednesday 7 October 2026; Time: 17:00; Rating: U; Runtime: 2h 29m; Room: 10th Floor Breakout Space
A cinematic monument, 2001 is arguably the most important science fiction film of all time. It’s importance is undeniable, having fired the starting gun the visual effects revolution that lead to films like Star Wars and ultimately the modern visual effects industry which Escape inhabits, yet it despite its influence it is a whole unparalleled feat.
Cosmically epic in its scope it tells of the progression of mankind from its dawn to its journey out into the cosmos. Defying typical cinematic conventions it is largely without dialogue or a coherent narrative. First time viewers may find it revelatory in its existentialism or impenetrable in its ambiguity yet it is undeniably a film that leaves a lot to think about and a lot of learn from.
#3. Cleo From 5 To 7 (1962)
Date: Wednesday 14 October 2026; Time: 17:00; Rating: PG; Runtime: 1h 30m; Room: 10th Floor Breakout Space
After an encounter with a fortune teller, Parisian singer Cleo is convinced that her upcoming biopsy will confirm a diagnosis of stomach cancer. The film follows cleo as she waits in anticipation from the hours of 5 to 7. Directed by Agnes Varda, this is a seminal film from the french new wave. In comparison with the other films in this season, Cleo From 5 To 7 is a much more dramatic and intimate film. With a stunning performance from Corinne Marchand, portraying a woman in in an existential crisis. This film in my opinion also showcases some of the best street cinematography put to film.
This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
Date: Wednesday 21 October 2026; Time: 17:00; Rating: 15; Runtime: 1h 22m; Room: 10th Floor Breakout Space
Directed by Rob Reiner, This Is Spinal Tap is a defining film in the “mockumentary” comedy genre. The film follows the titular band on tour as chaos ensues. Starring Christopher Guest, Michael McKean andHarry Shearer with Reiner himself as the director of the documentary, Spinal Tap is considered a classic and has garnered a significant cult following.
Ring (1998)
Date: Wednesday 28 October 2026; Time: 17:00; Rating: 15; Runtime: 1h 36m; Room: 11.04a – Atlantis
A psychological cult classic, Ring (Japanese リング) is considered one of the greats of Japanese horror. A masterpiece in slow burn, atmospheric dread, and an exploration of grief and revenge. We follow journalist Reiko Asakawa, as she investigates a string of mysterious deaths in Tokyo.
She finds the victims all link together through a single, absurdly creepy videotape. The mystery unravels and we the viewers feel nothing but suspense around every corner. If you are a fan of horror, or are wanting to step into the genre, Ring is a must watch movie, sure to leave many students frozen in their seats, afraid to turn their television on.
What is the Film Society
Escape Studios’ Film Society is a student society created to organise film screenings. Film Society aims to introduce students to a wide array of films to be inspired by and to draw upon on creatively during the course of their studies.
Get Involved
You can get involved through the Teams channel: Link
Or through out legacy Discord Server: Link
Our Website: Link
Contact
For questions about Film Society, contact Mylo Pinto Rizvi mylo.pintorizvi584@escapestudios.ac.uk
The Escape Studios VFX Blog offers a personal view on the art of visual effects. To apply for one of our courses, follow this link.
