Colchester Odeon backtracks in a Blur over film snub (From Gazette)

Colchester Odeon backtracks in a Blur over film snub

6:00pm Wednesday 6th January 2010

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CINEMA bosses have done a U-turn on their decision not to show the movie about Colchester band Blur’s 2009 reunion.

The Odeon, in Head Street, Colchester, has decided to screen the film, No Distance Left to Run, after all. The change of heart is in response to the pleas of hundreds of fans who demanded a chance to see the movie.

The film will be released to scores of cinemas across the country on January 19.

Management at the Colchester cinema had said it wouldn’t be showing the film, because of “prior commitments”.

Now it has agreed arrange a one-off showing after talking to Blur fans and members of Keep Colchester Cool, a group set up to promote music and arts in the town.

Ben Howard, founder of Keep Colchester Cool, said: “Organisations make cold-hearted decisions and take away the opportunity to celebrate what’s great about our heritage – whether it’s recognising influential bands, or protecting Colchester’s Roman Circus.”

“I’m pleased, but not surprised Colchester Odeon has reconsidered.

“However, with only one showing, it might not be meeting demand, considering Colchester is Blur’s home town.”

A group, set up on the Facebook social networking website, by Keep Colchester Cool to press the cinema to change its mind, has more than 200 members.

The Odeon admits it was inundated with complaints and requests to show the film and will now be screening it at 8pm on January 19.

For tickets, visit the Odeon box office or go to www.odeon.co.uk

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