FILMS about the First World War will be shown in York tonight to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the conflict.

York Explore, York Picture House and York Alternative History Group have organised the showings, which look at different perspectives of The Great War.

The compilation of short films, entitled A Night at the Cinema 1914, start at 6.15pm at City Screen, York Picture House.

The films will look at the context of the time, and what 1914 felt like in the UK, with a display of maps and photographs and a brief lecture.

A spokesman for the group said: “How should we remember the First World War? Was it a just war against the militarism of Germany and its allies? A war between imperial powers fighting to extend their economic reach? An accident from which no combatant country was able to extricate itself?

“How do we remember the courage of those many who refused to participate? YAH hopes to raise some of these questions through its events.

“This is an opportunity to challenge common perceptions and some myths, and discuss and debate other perspectives than those of government.”

Later this year, the group will also hold events to look at how best to remember the war. To find out more, email yorkalternativehistory@gmail.com

At most of the films, there will be a display of material including maps and photographs from York libraries illustrating the impact that the war had on York residents.