Oxford’s home of independent cinema
The Ultimate Picture Palace is Oxford’s oldest independent cinema. Founded in 1911 and community-owned since 2022, we show a mix of independent, international, and classic films all in our cosy single-screen auditorium. Find us on the Cowley Road in East Oxford.
What's on
Tomorrow (Monday 25th May)
13:45
Kokuho 15
2h 55m | Japanese w/ English subtitles
17:30
The Magic Faraway Tree U
1h 50m
20:00
The Stranger 15
2h 2m | French w/ English subtitlesTuesday 26th May
17:45
Wild Foxes 15
20:00
Coming soon
UPP 30th Anniversary: Blade Runner
Thursday 4th June
In celebration of our 30th birthday, we’re re-screening the first film ever shown at the newly opened Ultimate Picture Palace back in 1996 – Blade Runner, a favourite of then manager Saied Marham. Come along and wish us a happy birthday!
Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair
19th to 25th June
Bleak Week: Cinema of Despair is an annual film festival showcasing some of the greatest works of cinema from across the globe that venture into the darkest sides of humanity and the bleakest points in human history. Our selections include Oldboy, Gummo, The Ascent and more.
Director’s Cuts: Lucile Hadžihalilović
30th May to 17th June
Our second Director’s Cuts series features French filmmaker Lucile Hadzihalilovic curating a season of her favourites, alongside a screening of her own Neo-noir horror Earwig, including a Q&A with Hadzihalilovic and screenwriter Geoff Cox.
Become a member
Our community of UPP members get exclusive discounts including 2 free tickets, a free drink at our cosy bar and £2 off the price of tickets.
UPP News
Find out the latest news and updates from the UPP and our community
The Magnificent Ambersons: Welles’ butchered sophomore effort
The Magnificent Amberson's is showing as part of our 35mm Films on Film season on Saturday 9th May at 3pm. Citizen Kane screens on ... Read more
Ruskin School of Art students’ short films at UPP
The Ultimate Picture Palace are delighted to partner with Ruskin School of Art, to exhibit a selection of their students’ short films. ... Read more
Director’s Cuts: New series begins with Peter Strickland
We're delighted to announce a new regular series we're calling Director’s Cuts. Inviting filmmakers we admire to curate a screening ... Read more
Hire the cinema
Our unique art-deco venue is the perfect place for private screenings, children and adult birthday parties, fundraisers, premieres, presentations, community events, film festivals and more.