Peter Howden: A Life Dedicated to Independent Cinema Programming
The independent film community in London is mourning the loss of Peter Howden, who passed away recently at the age of 80. Howden served as the chief programmer at the iconic Rio cinema in Dalston, north London, from 1999 right up until his death, cementing his legacy as one of the capital's most influential cinematic curators.
From Electric Beginnings to Rio Leadership
Howden's remarkable career in cinema programming began in the late 1960s at the Electric cinema in Notting Hill, west London. His innovative approach to film curation at this venue helped establish trends that would influence other prominent London repertory cinemas, including the Ritzy in south London and the Scala in north London, both of which took inspiration from his pioneering work.
His most significant tenure came at the Everyman cinema in Hampstead, where he worked from 1981 to 1998. During this period, Howden perfected the art of creating compelling double and triple bills, frequently organising midnight screenings and engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers and enthusiasts. He lived in a flat above the auditorium with his cats, taking on multiple roles including projectionist, accountant, and manager alongside his primary programming duties.
The Rio Cinema Era and Lasting Impact
After a brief year-long break, Howden joined the Rio cinema in Dalston in 1999 as both chief programmer and chief projectionist. Colleagues remember him as exceptionally generous with his knowledge, offering training opportunities even to those who hadn't secured formal positions. His encyclopaedic understanding of cinema history made him a walking treasure trove of film expertise.
Born in York where his father worked at the local Rowntrees factory, Howden developed his passion for cinema while studying history at Sussex University, where he became a leading figure in the student film society. His professional journey began at Contemporary Films, an independent distributor specialising in foreign arthouse movies, while he supplemented his income by working as a freelance projectionist, even screening horse races in private apartments for wealthy gamblers.
Recognition and Personal Passions
Under Howden's programming leadership, the Rio cinema achieved significant recognition, being named Independent Cinema of the Year in the 2009 Screen awards and winning the Marketing Initiative of the Year category for successfully attracting younger audiences back to cinema-going. Characteristically modest, Howden preferred to work behind the scenes without seeking personal acclaim for these achievements.
His love for cinema permeated every aspect of his life. Although he had quit smoking Rothmans cigarettes years earlier, he maintained a fondness for the aroma of cigarette smoke because it reminded him of traditional cinema experiences and evoked the golden age of Hollywood. He once confessed to a colleague that he could happily listen to fellow Yorkshireman James Mason reading the phone book all day, yet remained an intensely private person who rarely discussed personal preferences.
Peter Howden is survived by his long-term partner, Wallace Kwong. The Rio cinema honoured his memory by using its distinctive signage to mark his passing, a fitting tribute to a man whose programming helped define independent cinema culture in London for over four decades.
