IT’S amazingly been 40 years since the hit sci-fi film ET hit our screens and a special anniversary screening of the Steven Spielberg classic is the latest offering this weekend of a brand new Powys cinema club.

Sunday at the Cinema is a new community group that began showing wide-ranging, classic films at Builth Wells’ Wyeside Arts Centre a few months ago. The club’s premiere was in December, and even though they haven’t had to wait quite as long to launch in comparison to the four decades ET has been captivating audiences – not to mention how long it would have taken him to phone home – Sunday at the Cinema’s silver screen debut was grounded by Covid.

“We had planned to start before Covid but then everything obviously had to be put on hold, so the structure of the club had to be rethought in view of going back,” said club member Wendy Evans.

“So, it’s been a tricky time getting established. But, we contacted a company called Film Bank who have a vast number of films you can watch on blue ray or DVD and we finally started in December.”

Wendy said the idea for the club – which is a venture between Llandrindod Wells and Rhayader as well as Builth and surrounding villages – first originated in 2019.

“We held an open meeting in 2019 to see if anyone else thought a film club would be a good idea,” she said.

“Loads of people attended and gave wonderful suggestions. We’ve also been fortunate to receive two private donations, a grant from Builth Wells Town Council and masses of practical help from Wyeside.

“Fuelled with all this support, we launched the film club with ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ last December.

“We’ve screened five films with two more planned this season. Attendance is good and increasing. One visitor said they love it because of the friendly atmosphere.

“Sunday at the Cinema brings together our tri-town community (Rhayader, Llandrindod, Builth and surrounding villages) to share moments of laughter and joy over fantastic films each month. Everyone is welcome.”

ET: the extra terrestrial is being screened this Sunday, May 8, at 5pm, with Wendy adding: “This is a rare opportunity.

“Only a few cinemas across the country are able to show ET during its 40th anniversary year. Sunday at the Cinema’s planning team had to get special permission from the Spielberg Foundation before it would grant a licence.

“Celebrate the 40th anniversary of this Oscar-winning film on Sunday, May 8, at 5pm.”

June’s film is ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’, being screened on Sunday, June 19. After each film, people are invited to grab a drink at the bar and stay for a chat and to catch up with friends new and old. Doors open this Sunday at 4.30pm, with tickets £6. For more information on the club email SundayCinema.builth@gmail.com