Watch new release movies at the Old School Arts Centre

There’s no need to drive over the divvy for your movie fix – you can catch the latest releases right here in Raglan at the Old School Arts Centre. There’s a new programme every month, a state-of-the-art screening and sound system plus a cash bar and tasty homemade treats for sale at every showing.

Movies at the Old School began way back in January 2006 with the Stairway to Heaven Film Festival organised by Katy Armstrong. Over the years the technology required to show movies has changed dramatically – initially, films were supplied on special CDs, which limited screenings to art house and foreign language movies.

In late 2009 the first Raglan Film Festival was held and it’s been an annual – and popular fixture – on the Raglan calendar ever since.

Regular monthly screenings of new releases started in 2010. Later this was expanded to Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon sessions. Screenings are run by a small team of volunteers and supported by the Old School office staff. Volunteer bakers provide cakes and slices, and a cash bar is also available.

Last year, the Old School invested in D-Cinema (Digital Cinema Protocol). This is the same system used by large cinemas and gives the Old School access to a much greater range of films. Having this new system in place enabled the Old School to take part in the nationwide premiere of Hunt for the Wilderpeople – and take out the award for best rural premiere which saw director Taika Waititi and cast members Julian Dennison and Rima Te Wiata visit Raglan on 3 April.

2015 also saw extensive renovations carried out in the Theatre Room. New carpet, a modern sound system and improved blackout curtains have all resulted in a first-class cinema experience for locals. EFTPOS available.

Later this year, movie showings will take place on two weekends a month and some Thursdays. And don’t forget that in September the Old School hosts the annual Raglan Film Festival – expect an exciting line-up of films from around the world.

May Movies at the Old School:

Hunt for the Wilderpeople
Saturday 14 May, 5.30pm and Sunday 15 May, 7pm.

The biggest release at Kiwi cinemas in 2016 and a huge hit here in Raglan: so far over 800 locals have watched the antics of Ricky (Julian Dennison) and his grumpy foster uncle (Sam Neill) as they navigate the New Zealand bush and evade capture by the authorities. The Old School has extended screenings of this hilarious and heart-felt adventure into May – don’t miss out!

“Enormous fun!” NZ Listener.

Comedy, Drama | 1hr 33mins | PG | Violence, coarse language, some scenes may disturb young children | Country of Origin: New Zealand.

The Bélier Family
Saturday 14 May, 8pm and Sunday 15 May, 4.30pm.

In the Bélier family, everyone is deaf, except dutiful sixteen-year-old Paula. She acts as an indispensable interpreter for her parents and younger brother, especially in the running of the family dairy farm.
But when Paula joins the choir, uncovering a previously-hidden and exceptional musical talent, her close family bonds are challenged.

“A touching ending to an impressively handled if conventional comedy-drama.” 4/5 stars. NZ Herald.

Comedy | 1hr 45mins | M | Offensive language | Country of Origin: France | Language: French with English subtitles.

Licensed bar and delicious homemade snacks on sale.  Adults $14, Concession $12, Children $6. Phone 825 0023 to reserve seats, or email info@raglanartscentre.co.nz