I didn’t exactly weep when the George Street Odeon closed in January. Oxford has far more interesting cinematic choices, from branches of the smaller Picturehouse and Curzon chains to true independents cinemas, like the Ultimate Picture Palace. Now, a new independent go-to has joined the ranks.

Oxford Cinema and Café opened last week after building up strong anticipation on their Instagram. I went along to a special screening of 28 Days Later to see what Oxford Cinema will bring to the city’s film scene.

A cinema has existed on the Magdalen Street site for over 100 years, from The Super Cinema in 1924 to a branch of the Odeon that closed in 2023. The Odeon’s ghost can still be seen in scraps of navy wall, in the ‘premier’ seats now open to all (an adult ticket only costs £5.99). On their website, Oxford Cinema and Café calls their renovation of the building a “work in progress.” Personally, I think they’re underselling how well they’ve turned this former chain into a unique setting.

The new owners have taken inspiration from The Super Cinema days, decorating the foyer in Art Deco glam. The café section is a mix of candyfloss pink and emerald green, with scalloped sofas and velvet chairs. Like every Oxford establishment, there’s various board games scattered across the tables for your amusement. The rest of the décor is all stage curtain red and colonnades, perfectly complimenting the cavernous, theatre-like screens.

As of publication the café section will be open, selling Missing Bean coffee and Proof Social Bakehouse pastries. Your more typical cinema fare is also served, including Maize & Grace popcorn. I bought a substantial carton for less than a fiver. For anyone who’s ever choked down a kernel of cinema popcorn, you won’t be disappointed by Maize & Grace. Their sweet popcorn is less sickly and crunchier than the cardboard you might be used to. All the prices I saw were more reasonable compared to other cinemas. For once you won’t have to smuggle in your own food and drink.

Like other cinemas in Oxford, the Oxford Cinema and Café will be hosting exclusive events. They’ve already collaborated with the legendary Cinema Under the Stairs to screen Flash Gordon to over a hundred people. The 28 Days Later event was less well-attended, but no less fun. We all took part in a quiz on Danny Boyle films for a chance to win free cinema tickets, popcorn, and drinks. Before the film, we were treated to a sneak peek of the sequel 28 Years Later, a thrilling surprise.

Everyone working that evening was friendly, helpful, and generous, allowing curious passers-bys to take a peek inside the renovated screen. It’s clear that the owners want Oxford Cinema and Café to be a space for the community.

Whether you’re looking for a cult classic event or the latest release, Oxford Cinema and Café promises to be a wonderful new addition to Oxford culture.