UPDATE: As independent theaters across the Bay Area close their doors, Rialto Cinema is thriving, with three locations attracting cinephiles and art film enthusiasts. The Elmwood Theater in Berkeley, Cerrito Theater in El Cerrito, and Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol are proving resilient against the tide of rising rents and competitive streaming services.
Rialto Cinema Director Ky J. Boyd emphasizes the importance of curating a unique movie experience at each venue. “You open your doors and hope people come and like what you have to show,” Boyd stated. This dedication to the art of cinema is reflected in their diverse programming, which caters to community tastes and preferences.
Founded in the early 2000s, the Rialto Cinema has stood the test of time, even after the closure of local competitors like the Albany Twin in 2023. Boyd’s journey began with a love for film sparked by Disney’s 1970 animated classic, The Aristocats. Over the years, he transformed his passion into a business, opening the Rialto Cinemas Lakeside in Santa Rosa and successfully expanding to three locations.
Boyd credits community support for their ongoing success. The Elmwood often showcases independent and foreign films, such as the documentary The Last Class, which attracted sold-out crowds for its Q&A sessions with film star Robert Reich. Meanwhile, the Cerrito Theater features popular films like the 2023 hit Barbie.
This thriving independent theater group faces challenges as local real estate pressures threaten to eliminate beloved venues. Boyd voiced concerns over proposed housing developments that could push mom-and-pop businesses out of the market, stating, “The more valuable the land gets, the more likely it is that landlords will hike up rents.”
Despite these challenges, Boyd remains hopeful. “I am an extremely lucky and fortunate man. I get to earn a living doing what I love,” he said. The Rialto Cinema’s staff, many of whom share Boyd’s passion for film, strive to create a welcoming atmosphere. Victoria Carton, a concession clerk, noted the importance of community engagement, stating, “Even if it’s not a sold-out showing, people showing up matters.”
The historic architecture of Rialto’s venues adds to the charm, with Art Deco elements and comfortable seating enhancing the movie-going experience. Moviegoers can enjoy a meal delivered to their seat, further elevating the cinema experience.
As the number of theaters decreases in the region, Rialto Cinema stands out as a beacon for film lovers. The company’s commitment to showcasing unique films and fostering community connection resonates deeply with patrons like April Hamilton, who appreciates the local feel and quality programming. “It’s local, close and they always have something good showing,” she remarked.
Amidst the backdrop of closures, the Rialto Cinema remains a vital cultural hub, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in a shared space. Philippe Matheus, co-general manager at the Elmwood Theater, described the unique experience of watching films with an audience, highlighting the emotional connections formed during screenings.
With ongoing developments in the real estate market, the future of small theaters like Rialto remains uncertain. However, the community’s dedication and support continue to fuel optimism. As Boyd aptly put it, “It’s always a gamble. Believe me, there are parts I don’t love, but at the end of the day, the positives outweigh the negatives.”
The Rialto Cinema’s resilience in the face of adversity underscores the enduring power of cinema and community. As theaters close around them, Rialto Cinema proves that with passion, dedication, and a supportive audience, independent theaters can not only survive but thrive. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.
