Christmas Programme  - THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL (1928) & PLAY SAFE (1927)

THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL (1928)

The enchanting 1928 French silent film adaptation of Han Christian Andersen's timeless festive tale. A magical and poignant Christmas treat on the big screen.

A Visual Poem Based on the classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen, this 1928 adaptation is not a standard narrative film, but rather a work of "visual poetry." Jean Renoir, who would later become one of the most influential directors in cinema history, used this film to experiment with light, shadow, and surreal imagery, creating an atmosphere that is both haunting and beautiful.

The Story The film tells the tragic yet ethereal story of a young, impoverished girl struggling to sell matches on a cold, snowy New Year's Eve. As she strikes her matches to keep warm, she experiences vivid, dreamlike visions of warmth, comfort, and joy. The film captures the stark contrast between the harsh reality of her surroundings and the magical, imaginative world she enters as she drifts away.

PLAY SAFE (1927)

Monty Banks stars in this riotous 1927 action-comedy. Full of breathtaking train chases, spectacular wrecks and nonstop slapstick mayhem. Shown in its complete original version for maximum chaotic fun.

High-Stakes Comedy Directed by Herman C. Raymaker and starring the daredevil comedian Monty Banks, Play Safe is a fast-paced, action-oriented comedy that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Unlike the character-driven humor of Harold Lloyd, Monty Banks was known for his relentless energy and elaborate, dangerous-looking stunts that were often performed for real.

The Plot The story follows a young man who, in an attempt to impress his sweetheart’s wealthy father, finds himself in a series of increasingly chaotic and perilous situations. The film is famous for its climactic sequences involving a runaway train and a series of breathtaking stunts that showcase the ingenuity of silent-era physical comedy. It is a film designed to elicit gasps and laughter in equal measure.

Event Details

• Date: Sunday, 13 December 2026
• Time: 2:30 PM start.
• Location: Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum
• Ticket Price: £15 Adult, £8 Child 
  

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The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum

The Kew Bridge Kinema at The Musical Museum is truly unique. It is the UK's only repertory series featuring live Wurlitzer organ accompaniment to silent classic film in the UK.

A Century of Cinematic Tradition In January 1925, the first Wurlitzer organ was opened in a British cinema. These remarkable instruments were originally designed to accompany moving pictures. More than a century later, we are keeping this art alive at the Museum, allowing new generations to experience the thrill of the golden age of silent cinema. We select a compelling mix of beloved classics together with lesser-known titles, chosen to captivate modern audiences.

Artistry in Residence We are delighted that Donald MacKenzie is our Silent Film Artist in Residence. He curates each programme, introduces the films and performs an exciting and enthralling improvised score and provides a live, improvised score on the Museum's "Mighty Wurlitzer". The premiere renowned artist in his field, he is excited to be part of this project. 

Visitor Information Advance booking is recommended for all the programmes. Our licensed café is open before each film serving snacks and drinks. Most screenings include an interval, providing guests an additional opportunity to enjoy our facilities and refreshments.