Hollywood Offers Assistance During Cinema Closure Crisis in Rome - Hollywood's esteemed movie actor lends a helping hand to Rome
In the heart of world cinema, Rome, the charm of movie theaters is fading away as they're replaced by supermarkets, shopping centers, and luxury hotels. Over 45 cinemas have closed down in recent years, leading to a growing resistance, albeit unsuccessful, against this trend. The competition from the internet and streaming services, along with the losses during the pandemic, make ideal conditions for this shift. Even in iconic film locations like Cinecittà, cheaper productions are now being shot.
Stirring hope in these turbulent times is a powerful force hailing from far across the Atlantic - Hollywood. A faction with an Italian heritage, including celebrated filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola ("The Godfather", "Apocalypse Now") and Martin Scorsese ("Taxi Driver"), have stepped up to support Rome's cinemas. Other initial advocates include director Wes Anderson and filmmaker Jane Campion, with prominent industry figures like Steven Spielberg, George Lucas, and Edward Berger joining later.
In a heartfelt letter to President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the group stated that converting cinemas into shopping centers is a "heavy sin", not only damaging Rome's history but also depriving future generations of valuable cultural heritage.
Behind this stirring call to action is an upcoming law in the Latium region that makes it easier to transform shuttered theaters into commercial spaces, while banning alterations for existing cinemas. Famed architect Renzo Piano, known for his creations like the Centre Pompidou in Paris, was among the first to voice his disapproval, stating that even barbarians who once invaded Rome wouldn't dare to rebuild it but preserved it instead.
In a stark contrast, the Troisi cinema in Rome's Trastevere neighborhood offers optimism. The modern auditorium with 300 seats, events foyer, terrace, and coworking spaces has received support from cultural promotion and has proven successful without closing its doors 365 days a year. Films like the current Oscar favorite "The Brutalist" share the screen with classics like "Jaws", providing a true cinematic experience for all ages, proving that new ideas can breathe life into these historic theaters.
The challenge now lies with the lawmakers as they reflect upon the impact of these cinemas on Rome's cinematic history and culture.
despite the closure of numerous cinemas in Rome, cinematic icons like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese have shown their support for the city's film theaters. nearly half of the city's cinemas have shut down due to the rise of supermarkets, shopping centers, and luxury hotels, creating a strong desire to preserve the city's cinema and heritage. the Troisi cinema in Trastevere, with its modern facilities and varied film selection, serves as a shining example of how historic theaters can thrive in the modern age, offering a true cinematic experience for all.
