Published: 10/03/2010 10:32 - Updated: 10/03/2010 10:36

ASTRO Boy is the latest film to be show by a popular Ashbourne project that aims to bring the big screen to our small town.

The science fiction series set in a futuristic world where robots co-exist with humans will be screened at the Empire Ballroom in King Edward Street on Saturday, March 20 at 11am.

Astro Boy is a powerful robot created by Minister for Science, Doctor Temna, to replace his son Tobia who died in a car accident. Eventually he realises the robot cannot replace his son and sells him to a cruel circus owner, Hamegg.

A new Minister for Science notices Astro Boy performing in the circus and persuades Hamegg to give him the robot.

He soon realises how gifted the robot is and sets him on the task of defeating evil forces. Will he be able to do that and at what cost? The Empire Cinema Group will be drafting in the services of mobile cinema firm Reels on Wheels to bring the film to the town and this month there will be no Friday film due to prior engagements.

Organiser Andrea Cooke said: “The future of the cinema club is dependent on people attending in sufficient numbers to pay for the films and not be subsidised by funds which will be depleted too quickly, which affects the future of the cinema group.

“We show the latest films and now have new, comfortable chairs funded by The Grassroots Foundation so please come along and support your local cinema - it’s cheaper and more convenient than travelling out of town.” Doors will be open from 10.30am and tickets can be either bought on the door or purchased from Margaret Ford on 01335 300140 at a cost of just £3.50.