#WeAreQFT: Alisha Ratcliffe

You are stuck at home and your favourite cinema is closed. What five films do you watch? 

The Devil Wears Prada (2006): You’ll catch me staring at Miranda Priestly’s cheekbones for the whole film and laughing at her sick burns as if it’s not the 117th time I’ve heard them.

Singin’ in the Rain (1952): I love a musical and I used to watch this all the time as a kid when I was ill. It always lifts my spirits.

Little Women. Any version.

Misery (1990): I would rewatch this over and over again for Kathy Bates’ performance.

Legally Blonde (2001): I always wanted to be Elle Woods. Still do.

What three words would you use to describe QFT?

Unique. Friendly. Inclusive.

What is your earliest cinema-going memory?

The first film I remember seeing I think is the first Narnia film (2005). I remember Aslan “dying” (spoiler alert, sorry) and looking up at my dad with sad eyes, only to realise he was crying. Then I started laughing.

What film do you dislike that everyone else loves?

Oh god. I’m scared of saying this but The Matrix (1999). I just didn’t get it. I think it was too much information for my head to wrap around. I also watched it in two sittings because I fell asleep during the first one so it all seemed disjointed – I should probably watch it again, but I can’t really be bothered.

What is your guilty pleasure film?

Shrek (2001). Anyone who knows me will roll their eyes at this answer because it’s so predictable of me. I just find it so funny and I love the soundtrack, but I do cringe at how many times I’ve seen it.

What film character would you love to meet?

Edna Mode from The Incredibles (2004). I feel like she’d really put me in my place and sort my life out, which I need.

What is the best thing about going to the cinema?

Personally, I’m one of those really annoying people who finds it hard to concentrate on a film when I’m at home. I find myself browsing my phone or fidgeting a lot, so being at the cinema really forces me to surrender myself to the film and I find myself completely immersed. Also, the snacks.

Do you have a special place in the cinema where you always sit?

In QFT I do pick a specific seat and for Screen One it’s on the left, second row from the front. There’s a lot of leg room there and I’m really tall, so I can fully stretch my daddy long legs out and be completely comfortable.

Who is your favourite film villain?

I think Cruella DeVil. I used to be so terrified of her when I was younger to the point where I had really vivid nightmares about her.

What film do you think justifies a remake?

The Parent Trap (1998)!

What is your favourite movie quote?

Airplane! (1980): "Surely you can't be serious." "I am serious. And don't call me Shirley."

I found this so funny the first time and even though I don’t tend to quote it, it still makes me chuckle.