The purpose of Manchester Film Co-operative is to provide public non-commercial screenings of films followed by discussions. The co-operative will show a broad range of films, but all those screened and the discussions that follow will challenge current economic, cultural, political and social arrangements and/or offer a progressive alternative. The co-operative will screen films rarely available in the mainstream. Discussions will be informal. Where possible they will be led by experts and activists, focussing on the film and its wider implications.

Overall, Manchester Film Co-operative aims to provide a lively and friendly forum to promote progressive alternatives to capitalist society. It aims to help link together different politically engaged people and groups, and to educate and inspire as many people as possible through film and discussion.