FILM fans are invited to take part in a socially isolated screening of a cult film to help raise £2,500 to fight domestic violence during lockdown.

More than a hundred cinemagoers were set to gather at the Electric Cinema in Birmingham to watch cult British movie hit Withnail and I but the screening was cancelled because of the COVID-19 crisis.

Now fans are planning to stage a mass simultaneous watch of the film in their own homes at 2pm tomorrow (Saturday) May 23.

Money is also being raised for domestic violence refuges in the Black Country and Birmingham and people are urged to donate at https://bit.ly/WithnailBrum.

The mass home screening has even been backed by film star Richard E Grant who rose to fame by co-starring in the 1985 black comedy.

Hugh Evans, one of the WithnailBrum organisers, said: "We were disappointed when we couldn't go ahead with our regular screening but we understand why.

"Instead of missing out, we thought it would be handy karma for people to all watch the film at home instead and we'd give a running commentary on Twitter. It's time we came together a little and for a cause that we really believe in.

"One of our group is hugely knowledgeable about the film and will be giving some insights into it. It should be fun."

People have been urged to watch a copy of the film at home and synchronise pressing play at the 2pm appointed start time. They can then follow along with the commentary using the #WithnailBrum hashtag via the group's @withnailbrum Twitter account.

Hugh added: "Domestic violence is huge real issue during lockdown so we set-up a Virgin Money Giving page where people can contribute.

"But aside from that, we thought we'd come together to watch Withnail and I even though we can't be at the cinema. Everyone is welcome.

"It's great to have Richard E Grant's support too. He tweeted his support for the screening."

Halesowen News:

Withnail and I is set in the late 1960s and tells the story of two jobless actors who escape London and head to the Lake District for the weekend.

Starring Grant (pictured above), Paul McGann and Richard Griffiths the film bombed on release but thanks to word of mouth became one of the most revered British comedy films of all time.

Money raised by the event will be donated to CHADD in Dixons Green Road, Dudley, which supports victims of domestic violence across Birmingham and the Black Country.

The WithnailBrum group has raised more than £5,000 for charity since it started annual screenings in 2014.