Make The Bioscope your next choice for date night
We recently popped in at The Bioscope, based at Joburg’s famous 44 Stanley, to meet up with its owner, Russell Grant. Russell is a Jack of all trades. In fact, while he is the owner of The Bioscope and the bassist of the legendary South African band, Shortstraw, he is also the founder of the popular podcast, The Video Store.
After merely a year of being online, the podcast has just landed the number one spot on Apple’s TV and Film Podcast chart. In essence, it is a weekly chat amongst friends working at the local video store. Of course, they see many celebs come through the doors. In fact, some of the most recent guests on the podcast included JSomething, Peach van Pletzen, Stephanie Be, Nick Hamman and more.
Russell has been throwing much of his passion and energy for the local film industry into The Bioscope for over a decade. The independent cinema, which turns thirteen this month, is known for its exclusive selection of films. In fact, here you can watch films that you wouldn’t be able to watch anywhere else in South Africa. Apart from the 47-seater cinema, it also boasts a lovely little gift shop – Limited Edish – with limited runs of various local products. It’s not your usual curio shop. In fact, Russell explains that the merchandise include T-shirts, key holders and the likes, featuring the works of illustrator friends and artists whom he wants to support. Of course, these are perfect for tourists looking for last-minute souvenirs. Also, since The Bioscope is located in such a lovely Joburg setting, both tourists and locals pop in ever so often.
A peek inside The Bioscope
As you enter The Bioscope, you will find the intimate cinema with its one-of-a-kind car seat seating to your right and their in-house kitchen to the left. The cinema has been fitted out to the tee to make film fans as comfortable as possible. In addition, the space doubles up as the ideal recording studio for The Video Store podcasts.
The kitchen allows movie goers to buy from popcorn and soft drinks to delicious pizzas and wine. Yes, The Bioscope even has a liquor licence! In fact, your wining and dining requirements can be customised according to the occasion.
Make memories at The Bioscope
Speaking of occasions, this independent cinema is one of the most unique event venues in Joburg. The Bioscope often hosts cultural evenings in collaboration with embassies, showing films suited to the events. In addition to these cultural happenings, you can also rent The Bioscope for your exclusive event and enjoy entertaining your guests with something different. They host birthday parties, corporate events, year-end functions and even date nights. With The Bioscope’s new location (it was previously based in the historic Maboneng precinct) it now boasts a lovely courtyard where the party can continue long after the movie has ended.
The Bioscope plays host to the Encounters Film Festival this year, taking place between 22 June and 2 July.
