Why I’m Watching a Film I Can’t Stand at Aberdeen’s Most Beloved Cinema Event

At POST, we love sharing perspectives on Aberdeen’s cultural life—even when they’re a bit unexpected. In this piece, Chris Sansbury takes a swing at the Christmas classic It’s a Wonderful Life, all while preparing to attend the annual Cowdray Hall screening. Whether you adore it or endure it, there’s something about this event that captures the spirit of Aberdeen’s cinema community.

Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m not a fan of It’s a Wonderful Life. However, that won’t stop me from wrapping up warm and excitedly heading to Cowdray Hall on 21st December for the Belmont Cinema screening.

I missed last year’s showing, and despite my mixed feelings about the film, I couldn’t shake the sense that I’d missed something special. Strangely enough, Christmas doesn’t quite feel like Christmas without watching this so-called classic with a community of film fans.

The film is overly sentimental, portraying an idealised and distorted version of 1940s America. But its warmth mirrors how I feel about the Belmont Cinema community. A sense of pride in their efforts and the hope that this vital cultural hub will throw open its doors again soon.

The nightmare of Pottersville seems much more exciting and vibrant than the achingly boring Bedford Falls. It’s got music, a bowling alley and even a cocktail lounge. Oh my! Bedford Falls, on the other hand, leans uncomfortably hard on the white side for a black-and-white movie.

But isn’t that interplay between the two what makes interesting cinema great? For too long, Aberdeen’s cinematic choice has been very Bedford Falls. Clean-pressed, overly-long offerings straight out of the Disney princess and superhero factory.

Don’t get me wrong. The Marvel Cinematic Universe can offer a fantastic night out, and Disney has delivered some outstanding films in recent years. But I also want to experience the more subversive side of movie-making. Movies that challenge my expectations and tell stories that I would never experience elsewhere.

The team at Belmont Community Cinema want to explore both sides of that coin when the venue is relaunched. They want to help you fall in love with cinema again, delivering a programme of films that both excites and inspires audiences. Not just art-house and international offerings but top-quality blockbusters too.

So who's joining me at Cowdray Hall on 21st December for their showing of It’s a Wonderful Life? I’ll be there with a big daft smile on my face. For me, it’s not about watching a Christmas classic. It’s a celebration of Aberdeen's vibrant cinema-loving community.

It’s a free screening, with a chance to support The Belmont’s reopening with a donation. As always, it sold out very quickly, but check their Facebook page for cancellations and extra seats. You can also read all about the Belmont Community Cinema's work here.

Aberdeen’s cultural scene is shaped by the people who live and create here, and we’d love to hear your thoughts. What do you think defines the city’s identity when it comes to arts, music, and film? Are there hidden gems, standout events, or areas where you’d like to see more? If you have an idea for an opinion piece, get in touch. We're excited for you to share your opinions and insights.