David Stratton is at the movies in Lawson

The former ABC and SBS cinema critic will present a surprise movie on Saturday, December 12, to raise funds so the Friends of the Mechanics Institute, Lawson (FOTMIL) can buy sound equipment.

While the title of the movie remains a mystery, Stratton has revealed that it has a PG rating, ensuring a great evening’s entertainment for all ages.

FOTMIL vice-president Leila Wedd said the friends group was thrilled to have Stratton take part in their fundraiser.

“David is renowned in Australia and beyond for his passion for and knowledge of cinema,” she said.

“It’s truly an honour to have someone of his calibre generously supporting our movie night.”

After the movie, he will share his cinema insights and experience when he discusses the film with the audience.

Stratton, who lives in Leura, was made a member of the Order of Australia this year for his contribution to the film industry for more than 50 years as well as his efforts as an ambassador for Australian cinema.

Mr Stratton's association with movies began as a teenager when he set up a film society in his native England.

A few years later he moved to Australia and, at just 26, was appointed director of the Sydney Film Festival.

"I'm very honoured and surprised and gratified," he told the Gazette at the time.

He is best known for hosting At the Movies on ABC and The Movie Show on SBS with Margaret Pomeranz.

He has also been a director of the Sydney Film Festival and served on critics’ juries at film festivals in Venice, Berlin, Montreal and Cannes. And he is a commander of the French Order of Arts and Letters.

David Stratton’s surprise movie will screen at the Mechanics Institute, Lawson, (also known as Lawson Community Hall), 284 Great Western Highway, at 7.30pm on Saturday, December 12. Dinner will be available from 6pm.

Phone 0420 470 824 for bookings and information. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Adults $10, children under 15 $6, families $25.