Watch Micropubs: The New Local

As the pandemic deems the traditional bar experience less appealing, Micropubs: The New Local from 2020 explores the emergence of a new type of establishment that caters to a desire for community and personal connections. The documentary, directed by Sharon Bamborough, follows several individuals who have opened up their own micropubs, including Ignazio Cabras and Dean Cartwright. These entrepreneurs have all noticed a shift in consumer behavior, with people seeking out more intimate, relaxed spaces to enjoy a pint or two with friends.

Micropubs, as the name suggests, are incredibly small establishments - often starting as converted living rooms or sheds. They fly in the face of traditional pubs that can be overcrowded, impersonal or rowdy, and instead offer a more personal approach, with staff only pouring cask ale or craft beer and engaging in conversation with customers.

The film explores various examples of micropubs from around the UK, including one converted from a former funeral home and another from an old post office. Each has its own unique charm, often featuring quirky decorations and a sense of character that could never be replicated in a chain pub.

However, while the documentary is focused on micropubs, it also touches on broader themes around the changing nature of the British high street. The rise of e-commerce and out-of-town shopping centers has hurt many small businesses, but micropubs demonstrate a way in which entrepreneurs can create a thriving local business that bucks the trend.

The documentary features interviews with various experts, including brewers, pub inspectors and sociologists, all of whom provide insight into the trend and what it represents. One of the key observations made is that micropubs demonstrate a return to the old pub culture, where the establishment was as much a community hub as it was a drinking den.

Overall, Micropubs: The New Local from 2020 is a fascinating exploration of a growing trend in the UK. While it may not be a new concept in and of itself, the documentary captures the zeitgeist of the current era, where people are seeking out small, intimate spaces to socialize in. With high production values and fascinating insights, it's a must-see for anyone interested in the bar industry, small business or British culture more broadly.

Micropubs: The New Local is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes. It has received poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 9.1.