Cunard agrees partnership with British Film Institute to bring silver screen to Queen Anne

Cunard President Katie McAlister described the line as ‘absolutely thrilled’ to be partnering with the BFI – the UK’s lead organisation for film, TV and the moving image – with its ‘shared dedication to providing immersive experiences aligning perfectly.’ 

Hosted Hollywood names 

She explained, ‘We’re hugely proud of our long-standing affiliation with the silver screen, with some of Hollywood’s biggest names having sailed in style with Cunard – from Charlie Chaplin to Meryl Streep. 

‘As the first cruise line to host an on board film premiere with the launch of The Greatest Showman on Queen Mary 2 in 2017, we are incredibly passionate about the power of timeless storytelling. 

‘We have dedicated spaces for film enthusiasts across the fleet, and our new ship Queen Anne will boast even more big screen experiences for guests. 

‘Together with the BFI, we’ll strive to create unparalleled and unforgettable moments for film lovers.’

The 113,000t, 3,000-passenger ship is scheduled to launch in May 2024. 

The Pavilion 

The BFI will be showing 10 films every month on the cinematic LED screen inside The Pavilion. These specially selected films will also be shown in passengers’ staterooms.

Designed by David Collins Studio, The Pavilion is an open-air multi-purpose space located on Queen Anne’s top deck, housing a specially designed glass dome roof that retracts in warmer climes and is inspired by glasshouses. 

Architect Martin Francis – who supported with engineering the Louvre Pyramid in Paris – led a redesign of the glass dome, which will now feature a refined arched steel frame to maximise height and light in the space as it stretches up and aft to create the new Wellness Studio.

A sponsor of the 67th BFI London Film Festival

Cunard will be a main sponsor of the 67th BFI London Film Festival, in partnership with American Express, which runs at venues across London, and in nine UK-wide partner cinemas from October 4 – 15, as well as in 2024 and 2025. 

On October 11, the Cunard Gala will support the European premiere of The Holdovers at the BFI London Film Festival in association with Universal Pictures and Focus Features at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall. 

Francesca Vinti, BFI executive director of fundraising and enterprise, commented, ‘We are thrilled to be working alongside Cunard on this partnership and are incredibly thankful for their support of the BFI and the BFI London Film Festival. We are excited to be able to reach audiences in new inventive ways with amazing films and look forward to collaborating with Cunard over the next three years.’