Prague has another “functionalist” cinema. The Vltava will also have its shows here
What exactly is a boutique cinema? “It is a space where there is no classic seating in the rows, but there are couches and armchairs, you sit at tables, and you are served by bartenders. The bar is located directly in the hall, “explains the director of the cinema, Lada Žabenská.
As he says, such a space is made for visiting even films that the audience already knows. “At a time when they are not yet used to our concept, they may come to a film that they may recreate, and at the same time get to know the concept of a boutique cinema first hand,” he explains. As he adds, the architecture of the 1930s is interconnected with modern projection technologies, projected in 4K format and sound in line 7.1 configuration. Of course, time has its requirements, the point is to sensitively combine them with history. And the creators of the Přítomnost cinema succeeded. The new furniture fits here perfectly, and the daylight that the space has in the basement of the house also plays a lot. “A lot of filmmakers who work in different conditions envy us. Daylight allows us to organize non-film events as well. We intend to cooperate with the creators of the psychologie.cz website and other organizations, there will be conferences and other meetings, “adds Žabenská.
According to the director, the changes in the hall were not large, she characterizes them as cosmetic, mostly of a design nature. In addition to the mentioned furniture, live flowers have been added, which is what the daylight is all about. The original architectural elements were dusted and repaired.
So far, the screenings will be shown twice a day, and the audience will be admitted half an hour in advance. They will be able to absorb the atmosphere of the space and, of course, order something good to drink. According to people, the number of projections may change in the future. The Spectaculare festival would also like to use the space of the Přítomnost cinema as much as possible. Probably from February or March next year. According to its founder Jakub Grosman, it will help to restore the festival space, including planning other events. “We will be able to invite artists on a regular basis, and not, as before, ad hoc.”
In short: next to the Edison cinema opened last year (right next to St. Henry’s Church), Prague has another magnificent functionalist space dedicated to culture.
Important note: on a monthly or bimonthly basis, Czech Radio Vltava is also preparing for Presence with its listening evenings. “Having a drink and listening to a play or a podcast in this environment, it will definitely be worth it,” attracts listeners Lada Žabenská.