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Last days of cinematic landmark released on film
A DOCUMENTARY history of Waltham Forest's troubled EMD Cinema has been released.
The Last Days of The Cinema was produced by the McGuffin Film Society which has campaigned to save and reopen the cinema in Hoe Street since its closure in 2003.
The documentary explores the creation of the building by architect Cecil Massey and the famous Russian stage designer Theodore Komisarjevsky and its 70-year history as Waltham Forest's leading entertainment venue.
The building, formerly called the Granada, played host to such legends as the Beatles, Count Basie, Buddy Holly and the Rolling Stones.
The DVD also examines the EMD's historic Christie Cinema Organ, widely believed to be the finest instrument of its kind in Britain.
McGuffin Film Society members spent more than two years researching old photographs and archive films to draw together the most complete account of the cinema's history possible.
They also had unique access to the building during its final months and were able to film backstage and behind-the-scenes where the public would not normally be allowed.
McGuffins spokesman Bill Hodgson said: "It has been a time consuming project but we felt it was important to showcase all the footage we have amassed and make it easily available to people.
"The EMD has a fascinating history and it is certainly a story worth telling.
"We also hope the documentary will serve as a timely reminder of why this venue is so well loved by local people."
The film, available on DVD from the society, includes a plethora of additional footage shot at the closing night Gala Show in 2003 and during the subsequent campaign to save the building.
The documentary features contributions from MP Neil Gerrard, London Mayor Ken Livingstone, former cinema staff and the internationally-acclaimed theatre organist Simon Gledhill.
"The documentary provides a colourful insight into the cinema's long and complex history," Mr Hodgson added.
Copies of The Last Days of The EMD Cinema cost £10 and are available from the McGuffin website: www.mcguffin.info.
Alternatively send a SAE to: McGuffin Film Society, 458 Hoe Street, London E17 9AH.
1:15pm Thursday 28th December 2006
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