Bellaria cinema: setbacks and hope when reopening!

Bellaria cinema: setbacks and hope when reopening!

The Bellaria cinema is a bit like good old wine that gets even better with time. After various setbacks during the construction work and an unrealized reopening of the film projector in 2023, the revitalization of this popular Viennese cinema is finally moving forward. The operators, Michael Stejskal and Moritz Baier from Café Favoriten, have put in a lot of effort and the audience is loyally behind them. KURIER reports that The renovation plans have been approved and the focus is currently on completing the ventilation system.

The challenges that have arisen since 2022 have shaken up the initial planning. There were repeated delays, but those responsible are now hoping that the work will be completed soon. Construction fences and hard-working construction workers continue to be harbingers of the impending revival of the cinema. Despite the difficulties, the support of crowdfunding participants remains unbroken. A total of 135,435 euros were collected from 1,453 supporters - a remarkable success that shows how loyal the Viennese are to their cinema. 1000Things reports that The city of Vienna is also contributing to the renovation with its initial donation of 100,000 euros, thereby clearly setting an example for culture.

A piece of Viennese film history

The Bellaria cinema has a long history. It has been providing entertainment in Vienna's cinema landscape since 1911 (it opened in 1912). Especially before its closure in 2019, there was a focus on local films from the 1930s to 1960s. But the future promises diversity. The new concept provides for a wide range of films: film classics, art house films and special themed series will shine in new splendor. Young Austrian filmmakers also find a platform here to present their works.

The gastronomy concept should also take an important place. The plan is to spoil the audience with homemade slow food and an inviting garden, which will not only be open in the evenings. The operators approach the matter with inspiring ideas and a lot of passion. After all, prominent supporters such as Brigitte Bierlein and Josef Hader gave the campaign a face and thus contributed to its financing.

Onto the home stretch!

The first improvements are visible in the construction and the feedback from supporters is consistently positive. The further steps in the construction process include the complete renewal of the cinema technology and the furnishing of the rooms. However, a firm opening date has not yet been set, which is not surprising given the previous setbacks. Moritz Maier, one of the building applicants, remains optimistic and makes it clear that all the homeowners' signatures have been received. Despite the rising revitalization costs caused by new plans, the spirit and support of the community remains undiminished.

The anticipation for the rebirth of the Bellaria cinema is increasing! The feeling of getting a piece of Viennese culture back brings the city's ancient living room back to the screen. ORF Vienna sums it up aptly: Another chapter in the history of the Bellaria cinema will soon be opened.