The BFI IMAX is set to spotlight the power of cinema in addressing the climate crisis with a specially curated programme for London Climate Action Week (21–29 June). The initiative underscores the BFI’s commitment to sustainability, both on-screen and behind the scenes, with a series of screenings and events designed to inform, inspire, and engage audiences on the UK’s largest screen.
A highlight of the week is a free “In Conversation” event on 23 June featuring Toxic Town creators Jack Thorne and Annabel Jones, hosted by BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra’s Swarzy. The discussion will explore how storytelling can drive environmental awareness. The event includes a screening of There Will Come Soft Rains, a poignant short film by Elham Ehsas examining climate change and personal loss.
Other programme highlights include a screening of Fungi: Web of Life, narrated by Björk and featuring biologist Dr. Merlin Sheldrake, who will join a post-screening Q&A chaired by the BFI’s Keir Oldfield-Lewis. The week concludes with a special 40th anniversary screening of My Neighbour Totoro, introduced by animation experts Michael Leader, Jake Cunningham, and Arunee Sarasetsiri, who will reflect on the film’s environmental themes.
Since resuming operations in 2022, BFI IMAX has become a leader in sustainable cinema, cutting electricity use by 50% since the early 2000s. The venue was an early adopter of heat pump technology and now dynamically adjusts ventilation based on audience size to reduce energy use.
“BFI IMAX is the UK’s largest screen and a cultural beacon,” said Madeleine Mullett, BFI IMAX Programme Manager. “It’s our responsibility to use this platform to spotlight the climate crisis and inspire change.”
With over 20,000 annual admissions and a reputation for hosting major premieres and global IMAX hits, BFI IMAX continues to blend blockbuster spectacle with cultural purpose.
Tickets are now on sale via the BFI IMAX website.
