Did you attend last night's Secret Unlimited Screening? If so, you were among the lucky people who got to see British comedy-drama Blinded by the Light, the new movie from Bend it Like Beckham director Gurinder Chadha, a month in advance of its release date.
This spirited and winning story focuses on angsty British teen Javed (Viveik Kalra), who finds himself at odds with the traditional ethos of his loving Pakistani family. Growing up in Luton in 1987, Javed harbours creative aspirations and escapes his humdrum life through poetry – but his moment of true awakening comes when he's introduced to the music of Bruce Springsteen. With a little help from 'The Boss' himself, Javed learns what it truly means to express oneself.
So what did Unlimited audiences make of it? Here's Avantika who praises the movie's uplifting message and tone.
LOVED #blindedbythelight what an amazing film. Poignant, funny & so relatable. Even though I didn't grow up in this country, growing up Asian - some stuff was so on the nose. @sarfrazmanzoor glad you got to meet your hero #SecretUnlimitedScreening #CineworldUnlimited @BBTLmovie
— Avantika (@maryjanesdesk) July 9, 2019
Taobi Film says it compares favourably with a recent movie built around a musical theme...
Just got back from @cineworld after seeing tonight’s #SecretUnlimitedScreening which turned out to be Blinded By The Light! What a beautiful, uplifting & inspiring film, loved every moment & think it’s even better than Yesterday! Great secret screening choice! #BlindedByTheLight
— Taobi Film (@taobifilm) July 9, 2019
Ian Williamson also praises the film's level of heart.
#CineworldUnlimited #SecretUnlimitedScreening #BlindedByTheLightMovie Truly amazing emotional film. Great acting and speaks from the heart. GO WATCH IT.
— Ian Williamson (@Banim46) July 9, 2019
Victoria says the choice of Blinded by the Light embodies the fun and joy of secret screenings.
Absolutely loved @BBTLmovie @cineworld last night. Highly recommend. Another great reason to have #CineworldUnlimited as I probably wouldn’t have seen otherwise. #SecretUnlimitedScreening
— Victoria (@Tori79) July 10, 2019
And Chelsea Lou says the movie had an impact on her in more ways than one.
Thanks to last nights #CineworldSecertScreening I’ve got the urge to listen to Bruce Springsteen. Wouldn’t normally of gone to see this film but I enjoyed it ☺️ @HarlowCineworld @cineworld
— Chelsea Lou (@LilMissChelsiii) July 10, 2019
On the other hand, there was a somewhat mixed response from The Gaming Bear, although they do still find a great amount to praise.
After a so-so start, #BlindedByTheLight begins to find its feet, much like likeable main character, Javid. The implementation of music is good though the “musical” numbers don’t quite hit home. Still it’s a heartwarming story & a pleasant surprise for #SecretUnlimitedScreening
— The Gaming Bear (@The1GamingBear) July 9, 2019
Anyone else who was at last night's screening can tweet us their reactions @Cineworld and using #CineworldUnlimited. Blinded by the Light is released on 9th August, so if you didn't get to attend last night, be sure to check out the trailer.
And there's barely time to catch your breath as Secret Screening 12 gets underway in Cineworld on Monday 29th July. Of course, we can't tell you what it is – so there's only one thing for you do to. Click here to book your tickets for Unlimited Secret Screening 12 and tweet us your thoughts as to the possible movie.
Are you yet to join Cineworld Unlimited? Secret screenings such as this, and many more benefits, can be yours to enjoy for a set monthly price. Click here to join Cineworld Unlimited.