The Old Town accountancy firm has become the latest sponsor of the not-for-profit film society, which has been bringing international cinema to audiences at the Arts Centre in Devizes Road for almost eight decades.
Swindon Film is one of the UK’s oldest film societies and is run entirely by a team of nine volunteers.
Each season, it screens 14 films on Wednesday evenings between September and March, showcasing award-winning productions from around the world that are often unavailable in mainstream cinemas.
Chair Robert Elrick said the society’s programme is built around stories that resonate with audiences regardless of where they come from.
“We strongly believe that most people in the world, wherever they are from, have an awful lot in common,” he said.
“The films we choose reflect the drama, tragedy and comedy that life holds for most of us, and reinforces that despite superficial differences we all have shared experiences that bind us together, rather than keep us apart.
“Swindon Film is a not-for-profit organisation, so to have some financial support from yet another supporter of Old Town activity will help us make our 80th year really special.”
The sponsorship continues Haines Watts Swindon’s backing of community organisations and events in Old Town, where both organisations have long been based.
Emma Skinner, director at Haines Watts Swindon, said:
“We are huge supporters of Old Town generally, and Swindon Film is a gem.
“As a company with so many clients based nearby, as well as many who enjoy coming into Old Town to eat and drink and socialise here, it makes absolute sense to help celebrate something that really puts Swindon on the national film map.
“We’re really looking forward to another exciting season of Swindon Film, and are delighted to help make it the celebration it should be.”
The committee hopes the anniversary celebrations in 2027 will encourage more people to discover international cinema in the heart of Old Town.
For generations, the society has built a reputation for screening acclaimed independent and foreign-language films, offering audiences a chance to experience stories from across the world.
