The CTC Awards 2018

Hosted by film-critic Mark Kermode, the “last projectionist standing”,
 Dave Norris, and actor Jason Isaacs, the CTC 2018 awards recognised those that drive excellence in movie-going. Photos by Julie Edwards

 

Despite the expectations of many  and the perceived threat of VOD, the past year was an astonishing one for cinema in terms of box office admissions and revenue and, despite industry-wide consolidation, the movie business continues to innovate, aiming for an immersive experience with technology at its heart,” explained Richard Mitchell, the president of CTC (Cinema Technology Community), at the independent not-for-profit trade organisation’s annual awards, hostd at Universal’s London headquarters last December. “Our awards recognise organisations and individuals that create outstanding experiences which put movie-goers to the fore,” added Richard, “and on behalf of our directors, governors, advisory council and members, we congratulate our award recipients.”

 

Technology of the Year 

Barco/Cinionic Light Steering Projection

Technology continues to flow in to the cinema space and over the past two years, we have seen the slow but steady adoption and to some degree, acceptance from within of LED screen technology. Some were very quick to proclaim the death of projection, however, in 2018 one technology made the industry stop and think about whether there may well be a new take on one of the most magical elements of the movie experience — the projected image. Despite not yet being available commercially, Cinionic’s Light Steering Projection has already gained much recognition including recently receiving the Advanced Imaging Society’s prestigious Lumière award. Cinionic’s prototype light steering projection technology works by taking light from darker areas on the screen and repurposing the light to brighter areas increasing contrast and thus creating a form of HDR. This exciting new technology is one to watch in 2019.

 

Screen of the Year 

Nordisk Colosseum Oslo

CTC’s 2018 screen of the year has brought the magic of the movies to filmgoers in Norway for almost 100 years. Inside a 40m diameter dome with a 28m-high roof, is Scandinavia’s largest single auditorium. The Colosseum has evolved since it opened in 1921 and in 2016  owners Nordisk refurbished the entire space, from wall coverings and seats to Barco Flagship RGB Laser Projection and a RealD Ultimate screen, it is one of the most eye-catching cinemas in the world. And Nordisk know how to wow audiences: a unique pre-show sees 12 phosphor laser projectors displaying a three-minute light and sound show on to the domed roof.

 

Cinema Team of the Year 

 Watershed Bristol

The recipients of the CTC’s 2018 team of the year is dedicated to providing an incredible experience from the moment the movie-goer enters. A welcoming destination for cultural, creative, social and business visitors alike, the Watershed team has worked tirelessly to create engaging, vibrant and welcoming spaces that are accessible to all and a cinema space where technical excellence in movie presentation is shown at all times.

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

David Hodgkinson (Universal Pictures International)

The CTC presented its 2018 lifetime achievement award to one of the industry’s unsung heroes: David Hodgkinson. Dave started in the film world in 1980 as a runner for Edit 142 and, nearly 30 years later, had risen to the role of head of international tech ops, at Universal Pictures International, a position he still holds as senior VP for theatrical operations. He is also the man behind the annual Universal golf day which raises thousands for children’s charities. Known for his no-nonsense approach, this attitude has won the respect of the many directors, producers, editors and post-production teams he has worked with.

 

Outstanding Achievement Award

David Williams

In cinema circles, the words ‘dynasty’ and ‘Williams’ go hand in hand. Before David was born, his father and grandfather, with the Chapman family, bought the Capitol Theatre St Austell in 1945. Some 20 years later, in 1966, David joined WTW Cinemas straight from school, as a trainee projectionist. He rose to managing director. When he  joined, WTW had cinemas in St Austell and Padstow, with The Regal in Wadebridge coming soon after. Under his management, the company acquired sites around the south-west. David’s knowledge of the area and understanding of what his customers want led to long-term success, with many ‘firsts’ for Cornwall including the first triple screen in 1981 and the first five-screen in 1991. The current portfolio includes The Lighthouse in Newquay, the Plaza in Truro, The White River in St Austell and The Regal in Wadebridge.  WTW acquired the closed Plaza in Truro in 1997 from the receivers and rebuilt it as a four-screen. David’s sons Mark and Robert both play major roles in the business which employs more than 120 people. In the 2013 New Years Honours list David was awarded an MBE for his services to cinema-going in Cornwall.