London’s newest film space, The Underground Cinema at 180 Studios, is launching with an immersive experience centered around the work of acclaimed filmmaker Kahlil Joseph. Beginning Friday, February 27, 2026, the venue will host a month-long residency of Joseph’s feature-length work, BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions, adapted from his celebrated video art installation, BLKNWS. The project offers a unique cinematic journey that blends fictional narratives with historical elements, exploring themes of Black consciousness through a carefully curated sonic and visual landscape.
BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions isn’t conceived as a traditional film, but rather, as Joseph describes it, “with the fluidity and creativity of an album.” This approach allows the work to incorporate a diverse range of voices and imagery, from historical figures like W.E.B. Du Bois and Marcus Garvey to contemporary artists, musicians, the filmmaker’s own family, and even snippets from Twitter conversations. The film’s structure mirrors that of a mixtape, weaving together these disparate elements into a cohesive and thought-provoking experience.
A Decade of Collaboration and a Fresh Space for Film
The launch of The Underground Cinema marks a significant moment for 180 Studios, which has been collaborating with Kahlil Joseph for a decade. Previous projects together include features in The Infinite Mix (2016) and Reverb (2024), as well as the commissioned film Fly Paper in 2018. The new space itself is designed to celebrate the art of filmmaking in all its forms, from feature-length movies and music documentaries to artist commissions and collaborations.
Joseph’s career spans multiple mediums, including installation art, music videos, and film. He has directed videos for prominent artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Sampha, Flying Lotus, and Beyoncé, demonstrating a versatility that informs his approach to BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions. He emphasizes that the film is the result of a collaborative process, incorporating the contributions of poets, writers, editors, designers, musicians, and scholars.
The Soundtrack as a Character
Central to the impact of BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions is its carefully curated soundtrack. The film features original music by Klein, alongside tracks from a diverse range of artists including Robert Hood, Aphex Twin, Sampha, Kelsey Lu, and Flying Lotus. This sonic landscape is integral to the film’s immersive quality, enhancing the emotional resonance of the visuals and narratives.
Kahlil Joseph, born in 1981, is known for creating “intellectually and emotionally dense short films” that center on the experience of African Americans in the United States, according to Wikipedia. His work often explores complex themes of identity, history, and social justice.
Tickets for BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions at The Underground Cinema are available via the 180 Studios website. The residency runs from February 27th to March 27th, 2026, offering audiences a limited opportunity to experience this unique and immersive work on the big screen.
The Underground Cinema’s inaugural program with Joseph sets a high bar for future events, signaling 180 Studios’ commitment to showcasing innovative and challenging cinematic experiences. As the venue looks ahead, it promises to be a vital space for filmmakers and audiences alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of film.
Following the conclusion of the residency on March 27, 2026, 180 Studios has not yet announced future programming for The Underground Cinema. Updates will be available on their website.
