EastEnders Actress Participates in Reopening of Historic Cinema

Actress Michelle Collins, known for her role in EastEnders, participated in the reopening of a cinema that had been rescued from permanent closure. The Reel Cinema in Borehamwood faced potential closure last year, a situation that was prevented by the intervention of the local town and borough councils. This locality historically housed six significant film studios and currently remains the site of Elstree Studios, Sky Studios Elstree, and the BBC Elstree Centre, which is the filming location for EastEnders. Jeremy Newmark, the leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, stated that, considering Borehamwood’s ties to the film industry, “it was almost unthinkable that Borehamwood should be left without a cinema” given its industry connections. The cinema underwent refurbishment and has been rebranded as Reel Studio 70, a name chosen to honor the original Studio 70 cinema, which operated on Shenley Road from its opening in 1936 until its demolition in 1981, as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service. As part of the agreement to preserve the venue, its screens are anticipated to be made accessible for community use on an occasional basis. An exhibition detailing the 110-year history of film and television in Elstree has been organized to commemorate the cinema’s reopening. Featured exhibits include MGM lettering from the tower at their studios, the Tower Bridge model utilized in the 2014 film Paddington in Peru, photographs from King Charles’ 1999 visit to Elstree Studios, and a director’s jacket worn by Scooter during the 1976 production of The Muppets. Deputy town mayor Dan Ozarow commented that numerous individuals had “come together to keep Hollywood in Borehamwood,” encompassing current and former film industry professionals, students, television personalities, local council members, and residents. Mr. Ozarow further stated that the “spectacular exhibition” would “encapsulate both the historic heritage and current vibrancy of our film and television sector.” Mr. Newmark described the relaunch as “fantastic for the town and the wider area.” He additionally remarked, “With such a proud film and television heritage, it was almost unthinkable that Borehamwood should be left without a cinema for our residents at the heart of the community.” Information regarding news from Beds, Herts, and Bucks can be accessed via BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Further details on our external linking policy are available.