TheMoviesClub is a new film distribution co-operative that puts its members – not Hollywood producers or wealthy shareholders – in charge of the films that it distributes.

Officially launched at this year’s Edinburgh Film Festival, TheMoviesClub will get as many members as possible – hundreds, maybe thousands – to invest £15 each. It will then use this capital to acquire and distribute independent films to cinemas across the country.

The films that TheMoviesClub supports will depend on its members – members will vote directly via the co-operative’s website for the films they’d like to support. Not only does this empower the audience in a way not seen before in traditional film and ditribution companies, but it also means that the films in question will have a ready-made fan base.

Members will then be given a choice – either to take their share of the profits made from the film or to re-invest the profits back into the business.

The co-operative, which was set up by Co-operativesUK, is a direct reaction to the costly business of movie distribution, which at the moment results in blockbusters being screened in cinemas across the world and smaller independent films struggling to get distributed or any exposure at all.

"It’s a radical approach, but the industry needs something fresh," says founder Andy Whittaker. "Like the music industry, the existing business models for distribution are becoming more direct to consumer. TheMoviesClub sets out to prove that social commerce can work. We believe that the time has come for a new collaborative approach to releasing movies, and intend to create a global community to deliver this.

“Movie releases have become too much about who can shout loudest, and for independent movies this studio model simply does not work. This initiative reflects current internet pull trends, listens to what the audience wants and empowers them. It also helps filmmakers whose films struggle to find distribution.

“Who says that a Hollywood studio mogul knows more than 50,000 cinema-goers?”

To find out more or to join TheMoviesClub visit www.themoviesclub.com