The Hangout: A cinematic dream that keeps on giving

I remember walking into The Bioscope when it first opened its doors in Johannesburg’s Maboneng Precinct and feeling a rush of hope. This wasn’t just another venue. It was a bold, brilliant idea in a city that desperately needed more spaces for creativity, community and good old-fashioned cinema magic. I also remember thinking, who in their right mind opens an independent cinema in this day and age? Especially when so many are shutting down not just in Joburg, but around the world.

We live in a time where people are more glued to their couches than ever before. Let’s be honest — going to the movies isn’t cheap anymore. Your ticket and a snack combo, you’re easily looking at R250 for a night out. And with a universe of streaming platforms at our fingertips, you can have popcorn popped in the microwave and be deep into the latest blockbuster in less time than it takes to find your car keys. I totally get the appeal. I love a cosy night in as much as the next person. But where’s the magic in that?

For me, the real magic of cinema is still alive. It’s in the hush that falls when the lights dim. It’s in the surround sound that almost rattles your seat. It’s the escape from your phone, from emails and all the endless scrolling. It’s that beautiful two-hour pause from the world. And The Bioscope brings all of that to life in the most enchanting way.

This little miracle of a cinema was dreamed up by two brave (and maybe a little crazy) varsity friends, Russell Grant and Darryl Els. What started as a thesis question- could an independent cinema survive in Johannesburg? - quickly turned into a mission. “I was intrigued,” says Grant. “I was fascinated and excited about the city. I wanted to explore it. So I saw this as something we should actually do.”

That spark became a flame with a few test screenings at Wits University’s Film and TV Department. They were small, but they mattered. The idea took hold and the dream began to take shape. In June 2010, The Bioscope officially opened its doors, becoming a cornerstone of the flourishing Maboneng Precinct.

It all began with outdoor screenings at Arts on Main, until a permanent ground-floor space opened up in a nearby building. “It was all very organic,” Grant recalls. “We’d meet in the parking lot to talk budgets and plans. That period felt like just six months- it happened fast.”

Since then, The Bioscope has relocated to 44 Stanley in Milpark. It has grown, evolved and survived- even through a pandemic, and it continues to thrive because it’s truly one-of-a-kind. It’s not just about the blockbusters. This is a place where indie films shine. It’s a cinema that hosts everything from special themed nights to the delightfully quirky “knit-in” evenings, where you can sip hot chocolate, watch a great film, and knit with your bestie. You can even donate your knitted goodies to The Baby Box Project after!

Russell, who also happens to be a musician with the incredible band Shortstraw, has turned The Bioscope into more than just a movie theatre. It’s a safe, welcoming haven for artists to showcase their work, launch albums, host intimate listening sessions and sell their merchandise. He does it all with a big heart and a deep understanding of how hard it is for creatives to get their work seen without big money backing them. Honestly, hooray for kindness.

The Bioscope’s history is dotted with unforgettable screenings and special moments. From sold-out shows of films like Orania, Unearthed, Nosferatu, Poor Things and most recently Sinners, to larger projects like The Home Movie Factory and The Universe on Stage. One particularly moving night for Grant was a screening of a documentary about human rights lawyer George Bizos- with Bizos himself in attendance, joined by Justice Edwin Cameron and Nobel Laureate Nadine Gordimer.

And the guest list doesn’t stop there. The cinema has welcomed global stars including musician M.I.A, Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman Anthony Kiedis and Oscar-winner Frances McDormand. Pretty unbelievable for a little indie cinema in downtown Joburg.

It’s an incredible achievement. And one that deserves to be celebrated. Here’s hoping these dreamers and doers can take The Bioscope nationwide one day. Until then, may we all do our bit to support the spaces that keep local art, music and film alive. One gig, one screening, one magical night at a time.

Website: www.thebioscope.co.za