Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there a gap between the trailers and the film?

Our projection system requires us to include a slight pause between the trailers and the film so that we can separate out the adverts and trailers in order to use them for our next screening - they wind onto a separate reel to the main film print, and the projectionist needs a minute to switch the reels over before starting the film.

The lights are raised during this pause to allow anyone who wishes to leave the auditorium and use the facilities. We apologise for any disturbance this may cause.

Why is the cinema too hot / too cold?

Unfortunately, YSC does not regulate the temperature of the auditorium - it is controlled centrally as part of the Physics building.
We typically find the rear of the auditorium to be warmer than the front, and advise audience members to consider this when choosing their seats.

Why is food and drink not allowed in the cinema?

During the day time, the auditorium is used as a lecture theatre and conference venue. As is the case with all lecture theatres on campus, food and drink is not permitted. Should YSC staff see any, we must ask for it to be put away or left outside.

Why do we show advertisements before films?

Although we cover the bulk of our costs through ticket sales, our advertising contract brings in some revenue, which helps us keep ticket prices low.

For Societies

I'm from [a society/events team]. Can we borrow a film/DVD from your collection?

Unfortunately not - we don't show DVDs, and we don't have a collection! YSC hires individual 35mm film prints that require specialist equipment to show. The prints are hired for specific days, and are sent back to the distributor after each showing.

Can YSC screen a film for [me/my society]?

If you can cover the print hire costs for the showing (typically around £180) YSC will organise print sourcing and hire, cover our publicity and print transport costs, review the film and staff the showing for you.

Those wishing to be included in our schedules and Exposure magazine must also be arranged before our print deadline, typically several weeks before the end of the preceding term. We may also be able to arrange off-schedule showings during the term, although the society would be responsible for publicity in these cases. Please contact us as early as possible if you are considering this.

If you are interested, email us at ysc@yorkstudentcinema.org for details.

Can I show an advertisement before screenings?

Yes, YSC has space to incorporate a limited number of static notices in our pre-film slides. Societies or events wishing to advertise should submit a request to ysc@yorkstudentcinema.org, with the poster as an attachment in 1024x768 jpeg format, a brief description of the event and details of the preferred screening period. Requests will be allocated on a first come, first served basis, though YSC reserves the right to decide screening runs for any poster (for instance, shortening excessively long run requests).