Summer of cinema: pay as you feel screenings return to Leigh Film Factory
The acclaimed Leigh Film Factory is reintroducing its Pay As You Feel family screenings this summer to help those struggling to make ends meet still have school holiday fun
Leigh Film Factory is bringing back its popular Pay As You Feel family screenings this summer, offering audiences a chance to enjoy a full programme of films throughout the school holidays at a price that suits them.
Running every Tuesday afternoon, the season is designed to make cinema more accessible while creating shared, affordable cultural experiences for local families.
Supported by a range of local partners including Structures Group, PAB Architects, Headsup Therapies, Rotary Club of Astley, Hayes & Co Accountants and Astley Hire, the programme spans animation favourites, modern adventures and cult comedy, combining big screen entertainment with community-focused values.
Looney Tunes chaos and Disney royalty
The season begins on Tuesday July 21 with The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, a new big-screen outing for Daffy Duck and Porky Pig.
Drawing on decades of classic cartoon heritage, the film brings slapstick humour and fast-paced animation to a new generation, making it an ideal family introduction to cinema.
The following week sees one of the most iconic animated films of all time: Disney’s The Lion King (1994).
With its unforgettable music, timeless story and multi-generational appeal, it remains a landmark release that continues to resonate with audiences who grew up with Simba’s journey from cub to king.
Adventure, animation and cult comedy favourites
The programme continues on Tuesday August 4 with How To Train Your Dragon (2025), the latest chapter in the much-loved dragon-riding saga.
Known for its sweeping adventure storytelling and emotional core, the series has become a modern family favourite, appealing to both younger audiences and long-time fans of the franchise.
On Tuesday August 11 comes The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists, from the celebrated Aardman studio behind Wallace and Gromit. Bursting with eccentric characters, visual gags and stop-motion charm, it’s a brilliantly silly seaside adventure the whole family can enjoy together.
The season then continues on Tuesday August 18 with Bill (2015).
From the team behind Horrible Histories and Ghosts, this is a wildly funny, family-friendly take on the life of William Shakespeare as you’ve never seen it before — packed with chaos, jokes, and the kind of clever humour that works for kids and adults alike.
It’s history, but definitely not as you remember it.
A magical finale to the summer
The programme concludes on Tuesday August 25 with Wicked: For Good, continuing the story set in the world of Oz.
Building on the cultural impact of Wicked, it offers a modern musical fantasy experience designed for both dedicated theatre fans and new audiences discovering the story on screen.
Cinema for everyone this summer
All screenings are part of the Pay As You Feel initiative, allowing audiences to choose what they pay for their tickets.
The aim is simple: to keep cinema accessible during the school holidays, while encouraging families, friends and local residents to experience films together on the big screen.
With support from local businesses and organisations, Leigh Film Factory’s summer programme continues to grow as a community-focused alternative to traditional pricing models, ensuring that cinema remains open to everyone.
Full listings and tickets are available at www.leighfilmfactory.com