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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Ran

Akira Kurosawa's Ran is one of the director's most ambitious and visually incredible projects. Regarded to be his last true epic – and widely-regarded as one of the greatest films of all time – taking inspiration from Shakespeare's King Lear, it was Japan's most expensive film at the time of release in 1985.

Not the first time Kurosawa took inspiration from the works of Shakespeare – 1957's Throne of Blood is a reworking of Macbeth, and 1960's The Bad Sleep Well inspired by Hamlet – Ran takes place in 16th century Japan, as an elderly warlord retires and divides his empire between his three sons.

However, he underestimates how power will corrupt them, and cause them to turn on each other... and him.

A breath-taking experience, see this film re-released back on the big screen for its 40th anniversary.

Read a retrospective feature from Reel Steel.

Book now:
The Light / Showroom

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Showroom

Converted from a 1930s art deco car showroom, the Showroom is one of the biggest independent cinemas in Europe – and we'd reckon one of the best. Between the screens and the bar, it's easy to while away whole days here.

WTF: The Green Knight

Thu. 17 December 2026

Showroom

A loose adaptation of the 14th-century poem Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, notable for its striking imagery and performances. Screening as part of the Showroom's monthly screening strand celebrating films that make you say "What The F...ilm"!?

Sheffield Cablevision

Thu. 2 July 2026 — Tue. 28 July 2026

Memory Dance

An exhibition about local TV station Sheffield Cablevision, on air from 1973 to 76. With rare archive footage, photos and objects from its programming of kids shows, sports, politics, music, comedy and more.

Festival of the Mind

A biennial festival of new ideas. Bringing together the city's creative community and its academic minds through exhibitions, talks, screenings, performances and more. Stay tuned for dates and details for the next Festival of the Mind in autumn 2026.