Simply Red 40th Anniversary Concert Film: Where To Watch Holding Back the Years in UK Cinemas

There’s something magical about watching a live concert on a massive screen, especially when it’s celebrating 40 years of one of Britain’s most iconic soul-pop bands. If you’ve ever hummed along to “Holding Back the Years” or danced in your kitchen to “Stars”, then this one’s for you.

Simply Red are bringing their biggest hits—and a few surprises—to cinemas all over the world with Holding Back the Years: 40 Years of Simply Red, Live in Santiago, showing from 15 May 2025. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re a long-time fan or just curious about what makes this Manchester-born group so timeless.

Why fans are buzzing about this concert film

Forty years is a long time for any band to stay relevant. But Simply Red, fronted by the unmistakable voice of Mick Hucknall, have done it. From their breakout in the 80s with “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)” to 1991’s “Stars”—which, fun fact, was the UK’s best-selling album two years in a row—they’ve been a mainstay of British music.

But this new film isn’t just about the past. It’s a celebration of how far they’ve come, captured during their live shows in Santiago, Chile back in March 2025. That’s right, it’s not just a clip show—it’s a proper full-on gig, shot in 4K, packed with lights, sweat, soul and some very heartfelt moments.

What makes Live in Santiago worth seeing in cinemas?

Honestly? It’s the next best thing to being there. Think massive screens, booming sound, and a room full of fans singing along to classics. It's a shared experience—without needing earplugs or standing in the cold.

The movie’s got:

• All the hits you’d expect—“Stars”, “Something Got Me Started”, “For Your Babies”, and of course “Holding Back the Years”
• Behind-the-scenes interviews with Mick Hucknall, offering a rare look at life on tour and the band’s journey
• Jaw-dropping cinematography that captures both the intimacy and the spectacle of the live show
• A running time of 120 minutes, which means two full hours of nostalgia and new memories

You also get little touches that aren’t possible in a traditional gig—close-ups of Mick’s expressions, backstage moments, crowd reactions—it’s like flicking through a photo album that’s come to life.

Where can you watch it in the UK?

If you're in the North East, you’ve got loads of options. Here’s a quick list of venues screening the film from 15 May:

• Cineworlds in Barnsley, Boldon, Bradford, Hull, Leeds, Newcastle, Sheffield, Wakefield and York
• Everyman cinemas in Harrogate, Leeds and Newcastle
• Vue cinemas in Hull, Leeds Light, Newcastle UL and Sheffield
• Odeons in Huddersfield and Metrocentre
• Other spots like Wetherby Cinema, Tyneside Cinema, Ilkley Cinema, Phoenix Theatre Blyth, Savoy Catterick and more

Honestly, if you’re anywhere near a screen, you’re likely covered.

Who’s behind this release?

This cinematic event is a proper team effort from three key players:

• Source Entertainment, a UK-based distribution company launched in 2024, is handling the rollout. They specialise in event-style cinema, meaning they know how to make these things feel like a big deal.
• Rippla, who stream music events to fans around the world, are making sure that this concert reaches as many people as possible. They’ve also worked with bands like Mumford and Sons and The National.
• Electric Light Studios, led by director Dan Massie, were in charge of capturing the whole Santiago show. They’re known for creating music films that actually feel personal—not just a load of flashy edits.

A few words from Mick Hucknall himself

“We had a wonderful time performing in Santiago at the Movistar Arena, celebrating 40 years of Simply Red with all the fans who came out to see us. It was a truly special few shows and we’re very excited to have the opportunity now to share it with our fans globally. We hope you enjoy re-living the experience of Simply Red live on the big screen!”

Honestly, if Mick’s excited, that’s good enough for us.

Quickfire facts

• Title: Holding Back the Years: 40 Years of Simply Red, Live in Santiago
• Release date: 15 May 2025
• Certificate: PG (TBC)
• Runtime: 120 minutes
• Booking link: simplyred.com/cinema

Final thoughts

If you’ve ever had a Simply Red song stuck in your head—or just want a feel-good evening out—this film’s going to hit the spot. It’s nostalgic, joyful and made with love for fans who’ve been there since the start... and for new ones who just love a good tune. You don’t need to be a mega fan to appreciate it. Just bring your ears, maybe a tissue (some songs hit deep), and enjoy.

You planning to see it with mates or going solo for the full immersive experience?