One day in the not too distant future we would love to have a pop up here, a pop up there, perhaps we’ll finally have something roundabout and just around the corner, our own Independent Cinema underneath a grand railway arch.

We believe in the cultural importance of Independent Cinema – Everybody has a story.

If you’re interested in supporting our ideas or collaborating in the future, please use our Contact page or message David @vinemauk

David Thompson is the founder of pop-up screen Vinema, curating wine & film to inspire, provoke and challenge in a cultural celebration of world cinema. Details below…

A Creative Start in Film

David’s career began in the heart of Soho, fresh out of Film School. Starting as a production runner, he quickly worked his way up, gaining experience as a studio assistant and offline editor for the BAFTA Award-winning Grand Slamm Children’s Films. His creative journey took another exciting turn when he decided to pursue an acting career. Graduating from drama school in 2004, David (AKA – Alderman) spent the next 20 years performing across film, television, and theatre, honing his storytelling skills along the way. His time in front of the camera deepened his understanding of narrative and performance—skills that would play a vital role in his later ventures.

Discovering Wine: A New Passion with Deep Roots

Alongside this David ventured into the world of wine, bringing the same passion and dedication that had fueled his acting career. His journey began in 2006 with an Australian Masterclass at the Toast Festival in Fulham Park. David trained with the WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust), solidifying his technical expertise and ability to communicate wine’s rich history and complexity. Over the years, he’s represented top wine brands like McGuigan’s, Yalumba, Brown Brother’s, and Cockburn’s Port at major consumer and trade events, and facilitated masterclasses at industry-leading festivals such as Imbibe and The Restaurant Show.

David’s expertise goes beyond just tasting and sharing wine. He’s an event manager, brand ambassador, and passionate advocate for wine education. He’s hosted gin tours at Jensen’s Distillery and played the role of a beekeeper for a quirky Jim Beam Honey launch, David’s hands-on approach and infectious enthusiasm have made him a memorable presence in the wine world.

Vinema: Where Wine and Cinema come together

David’s most recent and exciting venture is Vinema, a pop-up cinema and wine event that brings together his two greatest loves—film and wine. With a curated selection of world cinema paired with hand-picked wines, Vinema isn’t just an event; it’s an experience designed to provoke thought, spark conversation, and celebrate culture. Drawing on his expertise in both film and wine, David crafts events that feel both personal and immersive, making each Vinema experience something truly special.

Education and Further Expertise

David’s pursuit of excellence in both fields is backed by solid educational credentials. In addition to his WSET qualifications, he further developed his understanding of cinema exhibition with the Independent Cinema Exhibition Course from the Independent Cinema Office. This education has enhanced his ability to curate Vinema events with an authentic, informed approach, blending the best of both the wine and film industries to create an engaging cultural celebration.

Looking Ahead to the Future

David’s career is a testament to his ability to adapt, innovate, and merge his passions in unexpected ways. With 19 years of experience in the food and beverage industry and over two decades in film and theatre, David offers a rare skill set that combines leadership, creativity, and cultural awareness. Whether he’s curating world-class wine and cinema experiences or engaging with wine lovers at trade events, David’s blend of expertise and enthusiasm makes him an ideal fit for any role that requires fresh thinking and a passion for both creative and business success.

Credit – @rorymurphyphotography