São Paulo movie-goers received great news this week, with the return of yet another street cinema in SP. But while we’re waiting for Cine Copan to return, we’ve put together an itinerary of the best independent cinemas in the city!
After all, street cinemas offer options for everyone, as well as keeping alive a tradition that began eighty years ago in São Paulo. So how about swapping the cinemas in the malls for a session full of history?
Street cinema in SP: 8 venues that are still going strong in the capital
Multiplex Marabá
The old Cine Marabá, in the city center, is the oldest cinema still in operation. It opened in 1945, and since then the building has retained the glamorous characteristics of the time.
📍 Avenida Ipiranga, 757 – República
Petrobras Cinema Space
With more than twenty years of history, in the spot formerly occupied by Cine Majestic and Espaço Itaú, this street cinema on Rua Augusta is a meeting point for movie buffs in SP.
📍 Rua Augusta, 1475 – Consolação
Spcine Olido
Cine Olido opened on Avenida São João on December 13, 1957. It’s the cheapest movie theater in São Paulo, with tickets starting at just R$2.00!
📍 Avenida São João, 473 – Historic Center
CineSala
The space has been operating as a street cinema since 1962, when Cine Fiammetta was born. The name changed after more than 30 years, but fortunately, the cinema is still standing! With the most comfortable cinema room in São Paulo, by the way: there are sofas for those who want to watch the movie lying down!
📍 Rua Fradique Coutinho, 361 – Pinheiros
Reserva Cultural
The Reserva Cultural movie theater opened in June 2005. Located in the historic building of the Cásper Líbero Foundation, it has established itself as one of the cult circuit’s favorite cinemas.
📍 Avenida Paulista, 900 – Bela Vista
CineSesc
Founded in 1979, CineSesc is one of the most traditional street cinemas in the city of São Paulo. In addition to the screenings, the space also offers free courses on audiovisuals and Brazilian cinema.
📍 Rua Augusta, 2075 – Cerqueira César
REAG Belas Artes
The venue has been showing movies since 1956, when it was just Cine Belas Artes. A great option for a street movie in central SP!
📍 Rua da Consolação, 2423 – Consolação
Cinemateca Brasileira
The institution plays a fundamental role in preserving national cinema, bringing together the largest audiovisual collection in South America. It shows Brazilian and foreign films, for children and adults, in a variety of genres. In other words, there are options for all audiences!
📍 Largo Senador Raul Cardoso, 207 – Vila Clementino
