The length of films is a hot-button issue in the movie industry, and it's time to address it head-on. Picturehouse Cinemas' creative director, Clare Binns, has sparked a debate with her recent comments, and we're diving into the heart of this controversy.
Binns, a recipient of this year's Bafta award for her outstanding contribution to British cinema, has a bold message for directors: make your films shorter if you want them to be shown in cinemas. With recent blockbusters like Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" and Brady Corbet's "The Brutalist" pushing past the three-hour mark, Binns argues that directors need to prioritize the comfort of their audiences.
"I talk to producers and emphasize that films are made for the audience, not just the directors. While there are exceptions, I often think a film could be trimmed by 20 minutes. There's no need for such lengthy runtimes," she says.
But here's where it gets controversial: Binns believes that extended runtimes limit the flexibility of cinemas. With longer films, cinemas can only offer one evening show, which may deter audiences from committing to such a lengthy viewing experience.
And this is the part most people miss: Binns' career spans over four decades, and she has worked with renowned directors like Danny Boyle and Steve McQueen. She started as an usher at the Ritzy cinema in Brixton and has since become a champion of diverse and independent filmmaking.
Picturehouse has faced its fair share of challenges, from Covid closures to the recent Hollywood strikes. Leonardo DiCaprio's critically acclaimed film "One Battle After Another" failed to draw audiences, raising questions about the future of cinema.
Binns remains optimistic, stating that cinemas are in a better place now. She believes that the industry is adapting, with streamers collaborating to bring audiences back to the big screen.
"We're seeing young audiences rediscovering the magic of Hitchcock and Agnès Varda on the big screen," she says, highlighting the success of repertory programming.
However, concerns remain about industry consolidation, with Netflix's bid to buy Warner Bros Discovery. Binns acknowledges the uncertainty but remains confident in the resilience of cinemas.
"Originality and commitment are key to the sustainability of cinemas," she emphasizes. "When filmmakers engage with audiences through Q&As and collaborate with cinemas, the response is incredible."
Binns has also focused on embedding cinemas within their local communities, partnering with initiatives like the Brixton Soup Kitchen and Poetic Unity. She warns that the closure of local cinemas is a real threat and advocates for VAT reductions to support these community hubs.
"Local cinemas are vital resources that bring people together. If they disappear, it's a tragedy," she says.
Binns will receive her well-deserved Bafta award on February 22nd, and her impact on the British film industry is undeniable. Her unwavering support for independent filmmakers and her belief in the power of cinema have inspired many.
What do you think? Should filmmakers prioritize shorter runtimes to ensure the survival of cinemas? Or is there a place for longer, more epic films in today's movie landscape? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
