Inside Everyman cinema: Manchester’s new ultra-luxurious picture house

Ultra-luxurious boutique picture house Everyman Cinema opens in Manchester this Thursday 31st October, and wow are we in for a treat.

Located on Quay Street on the site of the old Granada Studios, the independent group takes over a 10,500 sq. ft space in the ABC building.

Inside what was once office space is now three extremely comfortable and elegant screening rooms, plus a large lounge, bar and kitchen.

Nods to old Hollywood glamour are visible throughout. The interior design incorporates flecks of gold and neon, black houndstooth flooring and dark wood panelling.

Elsewhere, exposed brick has been painted black, giving it a chic edge. Bold geometric patterns correspond in differing guises throughout.

In the main lounge, en route to screens 1 and 2, a sunken ‘bed’ of seating waits enticingly. Above it, a mirrored ceiling encourages mischief – and selfies.

To the side, more seating for smaller groups comes in the form of benches with little tables and chairs. Above on shelves sit an array of plants, worn-looking books and vintage cameras.

Each screening room has its own unique aesthetic. The smallest, screen 3, has an infinity corridor leading down to it. Very trippy and disorientating, sure. but cool nonetheless.

Decked out in tones of brushed gold and mustard yellow, it features the picture house’s signature comfy seating, with room for 59 on deep sofas with plump, matching cushions.

Screens 1 and 2 can seat as many as 115 and 72 film fans respectively. Here, again, that lavish and swanky feel just screams date night. No expense has been spared on comfort, that’s for sure.

Screen 1 is the most impressive, though. Decked out like an old-style theatre, there’s so much SPACE. Don’t be afraid to stretch out.

Another side to Everyman is the service. Unlike your typical cinema visits, film fans will be able to enjoy waiter service from their cinema seats and order drinks, hot food and snacks directly.

Treats on offer will include burgers with skin-on fries, pizzas, sharing plates and fizzy and jelly retro sweets.

Popcorn comes sweet or salted from £3.90 (£5.90 for a large) with other savoury snacks including salt and pepper cashews, smoked almonds and chilli bites.

Sweet tooths can enjoy milk chocolate buttons, honeycomb bites and a collection of Green&Blacks from £3.70. There are also plenty of cakes, in-house baked cookie dough treats and even an option to build your own sundae.

On the drinks front, the choice is extensive. Classic cocktail choices include espresso martinis, Aperol spritz, daiquiris, mojito and negronis, plus G&Ts and even a sharing bottle of rum (£27.50) to split between two.

There’s wine, beers, ciders and soft drinks too, plus milkshakes ranging from fresh banana to salted caramel popcorn (£5.25).

In terms of films, the cinema will show a selection of mainstream, independent and classic movies alongside special events, launches and a diverse calendar of live satellite broadcasts.

Screenings will kick off this week with Todd Phillips’ Joker and the first release of Stephen King adaptation, Doctor Sleep, directed by acclaimed horror talent Mike Flanagan.

Other screenings coming up this week include Gavin Hood’s Official Secrets, Michael Engler’s Downton Abbey, and of course some spooky cult screenings in honour of Halloween.

Admission starts at £12.90, not including concessions and other discounts.

Going to the cinema has always been a treat. Now, it’s an experience.

Everyman Manchester opens on 31st October 2019 on Quay Street.

FIND OUT MORE