London, 6 February 2025 – MediCinema, the British charity that enhances hospital patients’ experiences through the power of film, will be honoured with the prestigious Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award at the 2025 EE BAFTA Film Awards. The award ceremony, hosted by David Tennant, will take place at the Southbank Centre’s Royal Festival Hall on Sunday, 16 February, and will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer.
MediCinema was founded in 1999 by Christine Hill and has since built and operated state-of-the-art cinemas within hospitals, allowing patients and their families to enjoy the magic of the big screen in a medically supported environment. Patients can attend screenings even while in their hospital beds, offering them a much-needed escape from their treatment routines. The charity collaborates with the film industry to provide the latest movie releases free of charge, helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. In 2024 alone, over 17,500 patients benefitted from MediCinema screenings.
BAFTA CEO Jane Millichip praised the charity’s impact, stating: “It is a real privilege to recognise the incredible work of MediCinema. Their unique cinema experience provides meaningful benefits to hospital patients and their families, alleviating anxiety and isolation through the immersive experience of film.”
MediCinema’s CEO Colin Lawrence will accept the award on behalf of the charity, expressing gratitude for the recognition: “Many in hospital are going through very difficult times, and we see every day how being immersed in the power of the big screen can benefit their psychological wellbeing. We are so grateful to BAFTA for recognising the contribution and impact we have made over the past 25 years.”
MediCinema operates within hospitals across the UK, including Guy’s Hospital, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, and Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children/Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Each screening includes medical equipment and nursing staff to ensure a safe experience for all attendees.
The BAFTA Special Awards celebrate individuals and organisations that make outstanding contributions to film and television. Past recipients of the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema Award include Andy Serkis, Stephen Woolley and Elizabeth Karlsen, the National Film and Television School, Curzon, Angels Costumes, and BBC Films.
The 2025 EE BAFTA Film Awards will celebrate the best in cinema, airing live on BBC One and iPlayer in the UK and streaming on BritBox International in North America, the Nordics, and Australia. Join the conversation using #EEBAFTAs.