Considered the cornerstone of Lebanese independent cinema, the Metropolis Cinema, founded in 2006, has reopened its doors in Beirut after 4 years without a home.
Created in 2006 by the Metropolis Association and based in the Hamra Cinema, it became a key venue for Lebanese film-lovers. Over the years the association worked with film-makers and festivals around the world to promote independent cinema for everyone. In 2008, as its success grew, the association moved into the Empire-Sofil Cinema. Then in 2020, during the economic crisis, that cinema was sold and the association found itself homeless. But while searching for a new base the association continued its work in Lebanese schools and cultural venues.
On December 21st 2024 the association celebrated the opening of their new venue. Purpose-built to their specifications, the Metropolis Cinema has two theatres seating a total of 300 spectators, a library archiving films and documents on Lebanese cinema, a garden for open-air screenings and a café.
To achieve this project, the association has benefited from the support of many patrons and international institutions, including the Swiss Cooperation, the Norwegian Embassy, the Italian company Cinesuite and the French CNC (Centre national du cinéma et de l’image animée).
Sources: L’Orient Le Jour, Broadcast Pro, Metropolis Cinema
