The Bioscope Independent Cinema
When you think of independent film houses in Joburg,
The Bioscope should immediately come to mind. Situated within the uber-trendy
Maboneng Precinct, The Bioscope prides themselves on being one of the most successful independent cinema's in the city. They host everything from classic film nights, rooftop movie nights, ugly cry nights, film festivals and kiddies holiday movies. If you are just venturing into the world of indie film, head straight to The Bioscope. They will have you well acquainted with artsy cinema from around the globe within no time. As a bonus, their adjoining restaurant,
The Chalkboard Cafè, provides drinks, snacks and even gourmet meals for you to enjoy during the movie of your choice.
Click here to see
upcoming events at The Bioscope Independent Cinema.
Details: 011 039 7306 | 286 Fox Street, Maboneng, Johannesburg |
[email protected]
First Wednesday Film Club - Atlas Studios
The
First Wednesday Film Club started out in 2004. It was initially an initiative aiming to encourage young filmmakers to share their work, be exposed to films of different genres, network and be creatively inspired. While it was pioneered as an event targeted at film and television industry professionals, it soon expanded to include student filmmakers and general movie enthusiasts. The First Wednesday Film Club is hosted on the first Wednesday evening of every month at
Atlas Studios in
Milpark. Audiences are treated to refreshments and an informative Q & A session following the screening. If you are an aspiring filmmaker, this is the event for you as it provides great networking opportunities.
To find out about upcoming screenings, join their
Facebook group.
Details: 011 482 7111 | Cnr. Frost Ave. & Owl Street, Braamfontein Werf, Milpark, Johannesburg |
[email protected]
Keleketla! Library
Keleketla! Library is an interdisciplinary, independent library and
media arts project based in Troyeville, Johannesburg. While they are predominantly concerned with the literary arts, they do occasionally host screenings of
cutting edge documentaries. Their lending and reference library also houses audio and video archives, as well as other unconventional library materials. This venue is a great space for young artists and students interested in South African media including art, publishing and audio-visual technology.
Check out their
Facebook page to keep up to date with their upcoming events.
Details: 011 402 0141 | 6 Verwey St, Troyeville, Johannesburg |
[email protected]
Drive-In.Co
Drive In SA have brought back old-school cinema in a big way. While many of us aren't old enough to remember good old drive-ins, we have all heard stories about the magic of the experience. Packing up your car, filled to the brim with snacks and comfy blankets, finding the perfect place to park off and watching a movie on a giant screen while listening to the audio through your car radio. Sounds like a cool way to appreciate film, right?
Drive In SA host at least three yearly drive in events at venues
all around Joburg. The best part of it all is that you get to choose the movies you want to see. Voting takes place
over Facebook, with only one rule in place - one of the films has to be
kid-friendly. If you happen to forget your snacks, don't break out in a sweat - Drive In SA offer hotdogs, burgers, popcorn and soft drinks.
Check out their
Facebook page for event details.
Details: 076 892 2535 |
[email protected]
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Drive In SA[/caption]
Pretoria: Petit Alhambra @ The Orient Hotel
The Orient is a boutique hotel situated in
Elandsfontein, Pretoria. While you may have to venture out of Joburg for this one, it is well worth the effort (and petrol expense). Think
Casablanca, Breakfast at Tiffany's and Gone With the Wind, in one of the most opulent private cinemas in Gauteng. The Petit Alhambra seats just 20 people, and features rich burgundy carpets, velvet curtain hung walls and plush upholstered seating. This venue frequently hosts a film club gatherings and screenings of both the classics and latest releases. Hire out the theatre for a private event or conference. We think this would make an ideal
birthday party venue for a classic film lover with an eye for opulence.
Click here for venue booking details.
Details: 012 371 2902/3/4 | The Orient, Francolin Conservancy, Crocodile River Valley, Pretoria |
[email protected]
By Tarryn Jameson
Do you know of any other independent cinema venues in Joburg? Let us know about them!