Eclipse Cinema brings indie films to converted factory venue in Collingwood.
A former Sherrin football factory in Collingwood transforms into Eclipse Cinema next month.
The 64-seat single-screen theatre opens with local and international indie films and Mark Walker, co-founder of Geelong’s Pivotonian Cinema, leads the project.
Eclipse Cinema takes its name from an early 20th-century silent cinema. That original venue once operated at 20 Smith Street, Collingwood.
The venue targets films that Walker reckons need big screen treatment. Films focus on local, international, indie and avant-garde cinema. Second runs of recent festival favourites feature prominently. We can’t wait.
Eclipse Cinema – Collingwood
- Where: 32 Wellington Street, Collingwood
- Opening: August 2025
- Capacity: 64 seats
- Focus: Local, international, indie and avant-garde films
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Early programming includes Miguel Gomes’s Grand Tour and Matthew Rankin’s Universal Language.
Walker also plans weekly Almodovar Wednesdays featuring Pedro Almodovar films, in honour of his favourite director.
Screenings include The Room Next Door and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. These sessions aim to build regular audiences.
Street-facing windows displayed movie posters for months before the announcement. Poor Things, Bottoms and See How They Run posters grew local curiosity (and ours too).
Support the endeavour
Walker launched a Pozible crowdfunding campaign seeking $25,000 for start-up cash-flow. The campaign offers various backer rewards. A $100 pledge provides discounted memberships plus on-screen credit before every screening.
Additionally, higher pledge levels unlock more benefits. A $500 contribution reduces private screening rates. Advertiser packages receive discounts for larger pledges.
Walker’s Pivotonian Cinema experience informs the Melbourne venture. Geelong’s venue established a template for community-focused programming. Eclipse Cinema applies similar principles to inner-city audiences.
The Collingwood location targets film enthusiasts seeking alternative programming. Mainstream multiplexes dominate Melbourne’s cinema landscape. Eclipse Cinema fills a gap for arthouse and experimental films.
The venue supports local filmmakers alongside international titles. Australian cinema receives dedicated programming slots. Emerging directors gain screening opportunities.
Eclipse Cinema represents Melbourne’s evolving cinema culture. Independent venues challenge multiplex dominance. Community-supported cinemas create unique viewing experiences.
For more information, head here.
