LONDON — The Scala, a notorious London cinema known for its subversive programming and rowdy audiences, is the subject of a new documentary that takes viewers inside the walls of the long-shuttered theater. Directed by former Scala programmer Jane Giles and co-director Ali Catterall, the film captures the unique atmosphere of the venue, which was affectionately nicknamed the “Sodom Odeon.”
Described as a “country club for criminals and lunatics and people that were high,” the Scala was a temple to the perverse, attracting a diverse crowd of reprobates, King’s Cross squat party-goers, vagrants, and movie fanatics. Its influential presence left a lasting impact on the tastes of those who experienced it.
The documentary features interviews with former staff and attendees, including Adam Buxton, Mary Harron, Stewart Lee, and Ben Wheatley. These interviews, along with the film’s punk-inspired aesthetic and entertaining storytelling style, offer a glimpse into the Scala’s wild legacy.
One particularly amusing anecdote recounted in the film involves an audience member who fell into a comatose state while attending a screening, with a prosthetic limb eventually becoming involved in the chaotic scene. Such incidents were part and parcel of a typical night at the Scala, according to the matter-of-fact delivery of the film’s narrative.
The Scala was known for its anarchic creativity, sticky carpets, and frequently X-rated screenings. The building itself would shake from the passing trains of the Northern line, which served King’s Cross station. The Scala remains an influential and memorable part of London’s film history, shaping the tastes and experiences of countless moviegoers.
In summary, the documentary brings to life the unique and subversive spirit of the Scala, London’s infamous cinema. By delving into the venue’s history, the film offers a captivating look at a bygone era of rebellious film programming and uninhibited audiences.