Celebrating the Diversity of Cinema in Nicosia
Starting next week, Nicosia will host a unique film club devoted to celebrating the broad spectrum of cinema. Known as Styx Film Encounters, this venture aims to foster a community for classic film enthusiasts. “My name is Theo, and I am an old-movie fanatic,” admits Theo, a self-proclaimed cinephile who has long awaited a platform to share his love for classic films. Now, with Styx Film Encounters, he and others finally have a space dedicated to their passion for cinema.
Introducing Styx Film Encounters: A Hub for Film Buffs
Styx Film Encounters isn’t just another film club; it’s an inclusive space for everyone who loves movies. Starting on Wednesday, November 6, Styx will present weekly screenings of timeless films, kicking off with some true classics. The November lineup features legendary titles like Vertigo (1958), Breathless (1960), L’Avventura (1960), In the Mood for Love (2000), and The Wizard of Oz (1939) – all introduced by local film experts to give viewers richer context and insights.
Why Styx Film Encounters is a Game-Changer for Movie Lovers
Styx brings more than just screenings to Nicosia; it creates a welcoming community for cinephiles. Here’s what makes this club stand out:
- Bilingual Experience: Films will be shown with both English and Greek subtitles to make the screenings accessible to a wider audience.
- Free Entry: For its initial phase, Styx will offer free admission, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of cinema.
- Convenient Schedule: While the inaugural screening of Vertigo is set for a Wednesday at 8:30 pm, all subsequent showings will be held on Saturdays at 5:30 pm at the Pantheon Cinema in central Nicosia – a perfect time to start your Saturday evening.
- Youthful Leadership: Led by millennials in their 20s and 30s, the project exudes a sense of idealism and enthusiasm unique to Cyprus.
- True Love for Cinema: Styx isn’t about drawing large audiences or turning a profit. It’s a labor of love driven by a genuine passion for film, as co-founder Christina Pari explains, “I want us to be a home for people who want to watch films. I’m not concerned with numbers.”
Meet the Heart of Styx: Christina Pari
Christina Pari, a neuroscientist and lifelong movie lover, is the driving force behind Styx Film Encounters. Her love for cinema began in her early teens, frequenting DVD clubs with her father. “One of my first films was Amélie, and Pan’s Labyrinth,” she fondly remembers, explaining how she initially experienced these films alone. Today, her goal is to cultivate a shared viewing experience, aiming to revive the magic of the big screen while building a community.
“What we care about is making cinema accessible again,” says Christina. She envisions Styx as a platform for all types of audiences, from dedicated film enthusiasts to casual viewers seeking a night out. Her hope is that the power of movies will captivate everyone who attends.
Breaking Down Boundaries in Cinema
Though Cyprus already has film societies and festivals, they often carry an air of exclusivity or cater to niche audiences. Styx aims to break these barriers by offering something more inclusive – a club that celebrates the broad diversity of cinema. The vision is to bridge the gap between traditional film clubs and mainstream cinemas, uniting fans of both classic and contemporary movies under one roof. Christina also hopes to attract younger people who may not traditionally flock to classic films.
Challenges of Building a Cinema Community
In a time where streaming and digital platforms dominate, the idea of pulling an audience for classic films may seem daunting. Yet Christina and her team remain undeterred. They are funding the project themselves, covering the costs of film rights and Pantheon Cinema rental out of pocket. Despite the challenges, Christina views this as a long-term investment, saying, “It’s going to take years.” With aspirations of expanding to include lectures, filmmaker interviews, and even podcasts, Styx aims to create a comprehensive cultural hub for cinema lovers.
A Breath of Fresh Air in Cyprus’ Film Scene
Styx is more than a film club; it’s an inspiring initiative that demonstrates boundless optimism and the power of a shared passion. The club arrives at an opportune moment, offering an inviting option for a cozy Saturday afternoon screening during the colder months.
Perhaps most exciting of all, Styx reflects a growing subculture of young, devoted cinephiles in Cyprus. Much like the resurgence of vinyl, classic films are making a comeback among a younger audience eager to engage with these films on social media, discussing them on platforms like Facebook. As Christina so aptly puts it, “It’s not just about watching films, but engaging with them, thinking about them.”
For those who share this passion for cinema, Styx Film Encounters feels like the support group they’ve been seeking for years. A warm, community-focused space that champions the magic of movies – old and new – has finally arrived in Cyprus.
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