A New Kind of Night Out in London
In the world of modern cinema, few figures are as restless or as multi-faceted as Steven Soderbergh. Whether he’s reinventing the heist genre, shooting entire feature films on iPhones, or winning an Oscar for a complex drug-war epic, Soderbergh has never been one to sit still. Now, the director is turning his attention to the London film scene, but not with a new blockbuster. Instead, he’s curating an experience that blends his love for the silver screen with his passion for high-end spirits.
Soderbergh has officially teamed up with the premier British arthouse chain Everyman Cinemas and his own Bolivian spirit brand, Singani 63, for a special screening series titled “A Man Under the Influence.” This exclusive collaboration, first reported by Variety, promises to offer Londoners a rare glimpse into the cinematic mind of one of Hollywood’s most influential creators while sipping on a drink he spent years bringing to the global market.
For those following the intersection of lifestyle and film, this partnership feels like a natural evolution. You can explore more about how the industry is shifting in our Entertainment section, where the lines between creator and curator continue to blur.
The Spirit Behind the Screen
To understand the series, you first have to understand Singani 63. This isn’t your typical celebrity-backed vanity project. Soderbergh discovered Singani—a clear, floral brandy distilled from Muscat of Alexandria grapes—while filming Che in Bolivia back in 2007. He became so enamored with the 500-year-old tradition that he spent years navigating international trade laws to ensure the spirit was recognized as its own distinct category in the United States.
The “A Man Under the Influence” series brings this personal journey full circle. By partnering with Everyman, a chain known for its plush velvet sofas and premium food-and-drink service, Soderbergh is creating an environment where the movie-watching experience is elevated. Each screening will feature bespoke cocktails crafted with Singani 63, allowing the audience to literally taste the director's inspiration while watching films that have, in some way, shaped his perspective.
Curating the Influences
While the title of the series is a clear nod to John Cassavetes’ 1974 masterpiece, the selection of films is curated specifically by Soderbergh himself. This isn't just a "greatest hits" of his own filmography; rather, it's a deep dive into the movies that move him. The series is expected to feature a mix of cult classics, overlooked gems, and perhaps a few of Soderbergh’s own works, providing a narrative thread that explains how he views the craft of storytelling.
Everyman’s boutique approach to cinema makes them the perfect partner for such a venture. Unlike the cavernous, impersonal auditoriums of major multiplexes, Everyman theaters feel like private screening rooms. This intimacy is essential for a series that feels more like a personal recommendation from a friend than a corporate marketing campaign. It’s an acknowledgment that, in an era of endless streaming options, people are still craving a curated, communal experience that offers something they can’t find on a couch at home.
The Soderbergh Philosophy
Soderbergh’s career has always been defined by a certain DIY ethos, despite his high-profile success. He famously acts as his own cinematographer (under the pseudonym Peter Andrews) and editor (as Mary Ann Bernard). This hands-on approach extends to his business ventures. By overseeing the distribution of Singani 63 and now the curation of this London series, he is maintaining a level of creative control that is rare for someone of his stature.
This partnership also signals a growing trend in the film industry: the rise of the "event" screening. As theatrical windows shrink and competition for eyeballs intensifies, exhibitors are looking for ways to turn a trip to the movies into a full-evening event. Combining a world-class director’s film picks with a premium cocktail experience is a sophisticated way to lure audiences back to the big screen.
What to Expect at Everyman
Attendees can expect more than just a movie and a drink. The series is designed to be immersive, often featuring introductions or context provided by the director or guest speakers. For fans of Soderbergh, it’s a chance to see the world through his eyes. For fans of fine spirits, it’s an introduction to a unique Bolivian tradition that has been a secret of the Andes for centuries.
- Bespoke Cocktails: Each screening will feature a menu of Singani 63 drinks designed to complement the film's tone.
- Intimate Venues: Screenings will take place across select London Everyman locations, known for their high-end comfort.
- Cinephile Deep-Dives: The film selection highlights Soderbergh’s eclectic and sophisticated taste.
As the series rolls out across London, it serves as a reminder that the magic of the movies isn't just about what's on the screen—it's about the atmosphere, the conversation, and, occasionally, the perfect drink in your hand. Soderbergh has once again proven that he is not just a filmmaker, but a curator of culture.
