In the glittering, corporate heart of London's West End, where multiplexes dominate Leicester Square, one fiercely independent picture house has held its ground for decades. A new feature-length documentary, The Regulars, turns its lens on this very bastion of film culture, offering a riotously funny and deeply affectionate portrait of the Prince Charles Cinema and the unique community that keeps it alive.
Directed by David Soutar, the film is far less a traditional documentary and more a vibrant, character-driven comedy. It achieves what many modern films strive for: it makes you feel like part of the gang. The focus isn't on dry history or industry analysis but on the gloriously eccentric staff and the wildly devoted patrons whose lives revolve around the sticky-floored auditoriums.
The Unforgettable Characters of the Foyer
The film's true stars are the cinema's employees, presented with a warmth that avoids mockery. We meet the unflappable manager, a sage-like figure presiding over the chaos with a wry smile. Then there's the ticket tearer, whose deadpan delivery and encyclopedic knowledge of every patron's habits provide some of the film's biggest laughs. They are the gatekeepers of a world where sing-along Sound of Music marathons and all-night horror fests are part of the daily grind.
The Regulars excels in its fly-on-the-wall observations, capturing the tiny, surreal dramas that unfold daily. A customer's vehement complaint about a single missing subtitle is treated with the gravity of a major diplomatic incident. The intricate preparations for a themed event reveal a level of dedication that borders on performance art. These moments are woven together to create a tapestry of shared madness and mutual understanding.
More Than Just a Cinema: A Lifeline for Loneliness
Beneath the constant stream of laughs, the documentary touches on a profound and timely truth. For many of its most loyal customers, the Prince Charles is far more than a place to watch a movie; it is a vital social sanctuary. The film gently explores how this community provides a sense of belonging and identity, combating the modern epidemic of urban loneliness one double feature at a time.
It positions the cinema not just as a business, but as an essential piece of London's cultural and social fabric—a rare, unpolished, and authentic space where individuality is not just tolerated but celebrated.
A Triumphant Ode to a Cultural Icon
The Regulars is a resounding success. It is a hilarious, big-hearted, and brilliantly crafted love letter that perfectly captures the spirit of its subject. The film argues convincingly that venues like the Prince Charles are not mere luxuries; they are the soul of a city's cultural landscape, and their survival is paramount.
For anyone who has ever found solace, joy, or community in the dark of a cinema, this documentary is an unmissable celebration of that magic. It will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the irreplaceable role of independent arts venues and an urgent desire to book a ticket for whatever is playing next.
