Micropubs: The New Local

Micropubs: The New Local is a refreshing and insightful documentary from 2020, starring Sharon Bamborough, Ignazio Cabras, and Dean Cartwright. Directed by James Kibbey, this fascinating UK-based film explores a significant ongoing trend in the UK public house industry - the rise and popularity of micropubs.

The movie begins by giving us a brief overview of the decline in the number of traditional pubs in the UK. The story is nestled within a culture of beer, friendship, and the quintessential communal living which these traditional pubs once fostered. As the changing dynamics of the society and rising real estate prices takes a toll on these classic institutions, the film ventures into the exploration of micropubs, these new and innovative versions of the ‘local’ catering to the same community spirit and social culture but in a smaller and more intimate setting.

Sharon Bamborough, a known face in documentary filmmaking, leads the narrative with her charismatic screen presence and audience-engaging oratory style. She takes us on an exploratory journey into this new world, where beer still flows freely and the echoes of camaraderie are still loud but in a space akin to living rooms - smaller, cozier, and far more personal.

The film also expertly navigates the business aspects of micropubs, with in-depth discussion and analysis provided by Ignazio Cabras, an industry expert. Cabras explains the economic vitality of micropubs and how they have provided an alternative and sustainable model for the local pub industry. He offers insights into how these establishments operate with fewer overheads and often serve a niche, locale-centric customer base, thereby creating a 'new local' for modern communities.

Bringing emotion into the hard facts is Dean Cartwright, a micropub owner, whose passion for his craftsmanship and business is raw, inspiring, and heartfelt. Through his personal journey and experiences, viewers get a realistic and humane picture of the challenges, rewards, and the sheer joy of running a micropub. His personal anecdotes beautifully illustrate the community bonds and friendships these tiny locales are fostering, all while serving some fantastic beers.

One of the striking aspects of Micropubs: The New Local is its narrative style. Effortlessly shifting from facts to emotion, from interviews to travels, and from micro to macro perspectives, it takes us on a socio-economic-cultural journey that is as informative as it is visually appealing. The cinematography is stunning, with a noteworthy palette chosen to underline the look and feel of the traditional pubs and their modern successors.

This film is not just about the transformation of the British pub culture, but it paints a broader picture of societal shifts and how communities adapt to modern realities, manifesting an innovative solution to keep traditions alive. It's a testament to the human spirit of resilience, ingenuity, and the timeless pursuit of good times.

For beer lovers, this documentary provides a sneak peek into the wide variety of handcrafted beers and ales served in these micropubs. It highlights how these small establishments are not just maintaining but enhancing the tradition of local brewing and enhancing the quality, variety, and individuality of their offerings.

Equally, Micropubs: The New Local will deeply resonate with those interested in community culture and social history, as well as those with an interest in business models and entrepreneurship. The film strikes a perfect balance between these different aspects, making for a well-rounded documentary that is as thoughtfully engaging as it is entertaining.

To sum it up, Micropubs: The New Local is a heartening journey into the evolution of a cherished British institution. It's a tale of renewal, a tale of community spirit, and most of all, it's a tribute to the warm, welcoming space that a local pub, or a micropub, lends to its patrons from all walks of life. An ode to the old and a toast to the new, this film embodies the changing face of the UK's beloved public house culture. This is a testament to the fact that while times change, some essential things — like a penchant for good beer and good company in a 'local' — remain constant.