Iconic London cinema loved by Hollywood stars under threat of closure
Iconic London cinema loved by Hollywood stars under threat of closure
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An iconic London cinema loved by Hollywood directors is being ‘bullied into closure’ over fears the billionaire landlord will redevelop the site. The Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square has said they have been ‘intimidated’ by landlord Zedwell LSQ in a row over their lease renewal.
![[Mandatory Credit: Photo by Vuk Valcic/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock (15114224a) The marquee at Prince Charles Cinema in West End displays a tribute to David Lynch. The iconic filmmaker died on January 15, aged 78. David Lynch tribute at Prince Charles Cinema, London, England, Uk - 23 Jan 2025]](https://metro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEI_237038086-10f9.jpg?quality=90&strip=all&w=646)
The cinema, which opened in 1962, claims the landlord wants an increase in rent above market rates in an attempt to shut the business and redevelop the property. This is despite the Prince Charles being one of the country’s best-loved cinemas, and attracts more than 250,000 each year.
Film makers have praised the venue, with Quentin Tarantino describing it as ‘Mecca for lovers of quality films’. John Waters, who directed 1980s hit Hairspray, called it ‘the most depraved and beautiful movie theatre in London’. Zedwell, which is controlled by billionaire property developer Asif Aziz, has reportedly demanded a new break clause which would require the cinema to vacate a six month’s notice if planning permission for redevelopment.
The cinema claims this reveals their ‘clear intention’ to repurpose the building. They said: ‘We are beyond disappointed that our landlords Zedwell LSQ Ltd and their ultimate parent company Criterion Capital, have demanded the inclusion of a break clause in our new lease.
‘This could leave us homeless with only 6 months’ notice should they receive planning permission to redevelop the cinema. ‘Losing The Prince Charles Cinema would mean losing not just an iconic cultural institution, but also an engine for the economy of the West End that brings people from all over London and the surrounding area to watch films, shop and eat and drink.
