116 - Nigel Smith - Cinema Historian and Tour Guide

The Filmumentaries Podcast

In this episode of The Filmumentaries Podcast, I sit down with cinema historian and walking tour guide, Nigel Smith. Nigel is the creator of Memory Palaces, a website project dedicated to exploring and preserving the stories of London’s cinemas—both those still standing and those long forgotten. Join me and Nigel as we discuss:

• Nigel’s early love of cinema, sparked by watching Superman II as a child.
• The evolution of his passion from movies to the buildings that housed them.
• The rich history of London’s cinema culture, including iconic locations like the West End’s movie palaces and quirky cinemas like the Prince Charles.
• Fascinating discoveries from Nigel’s research, such as a Camden cinema run by a medium who let spirits dictate the programming.
• The enduring importance of community in cinema-going, from bustling matinees of the past to modern film clubs like Tufnell Park Film Club.

Nigel also shares anecdotes from his popular walking tours, where participants bring their own memories to add to the tapestry of London’s cinematic past. Whether it’s the glamour of West End premieres or the humble beginnings of Victorian-era musicals, Nigel’s storytelling brings the history of cinema to life in a truly unique way.For more on Nigel’s work and how to join one of his walking tours, visit Memory Palaces.
Links and Recommendations:

• Learn about Nigel’s walking tours: Memory Palaces
• Visit the Cinema Museum in London: cinemamuseum.org.uk
• Explore the Kent Museum of the Moving Image: kentmomi.org

Listen in for a fascinating conversation about the intersections of cinema, architecture, and community.
All my links