Saved events

The Songbird's Secret (U*)

Family Film Club x The Old Ways

,Cinema 2
The Songbird's Secret

An enchanting feature-length animation made entirely from cut paper.

Cut paper animation has a long history but has become rarer with the preponderance of computer-aided animation; this is the first such feature-length film in more than 30 years. 

Lucie lives most of the year with her dad but moves for the summer to be with her archaeologist mum. While her mum works on a dig, she leaves Lucie to her own devices, to explore the countryside, make new friends – including a pair of songbirds – and, perhaps, uncover some hidden family secrets. 

Once the credits have rolled, we’ve got a fantastic short film all about how the film was made, the techniques involved and interviews with lots of different filmmakers who worked on this wonderful story.  

Before the screening, drop into the Cinema Café from 9.45am – when Yuriko Nakano from Barbican Library will be helping families create origami inspired by the film.  

Tagged with: Cinema The Old Ways family film club

Make a day of it and dop into Barbican Library’s Monster Art Club from 2-3.30pm the same day, where the session will be themed around the film. All materials provided.  

This film programme has been locally classified as U – but assessing suitability of any film is the responsibility of parent/guardian. Please see www.bbfc.co.uk and the film’s official website for more information on film ratings/content guidelines. 

Please note: This screening is for families to attend as a group. Adults (over 18s) can only enter auditorium if they are bringing a child. Children (under 18s) can only attend if accompanied by an adult. Babes in arms of 18 months and under can be brought in on adults’ laps, but children over 18 months need a seat purchased for them. 

Film information
  • Release year   2025
  • Country of origin   France
  • Director   Antoine Lanciaux
  • Runtime   1hr 17mins

You might also like

Cinema 2

Location
Barbican Cinema 2 & 3 are located on Beech Street, a short walk from the Barbican’s Silk Street entrance. From Silk Street, you’ll see a zebra crossing that will take you across the road to the venue. 

Address
Beech Street
London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.