Rialto Cinema Defies Odds, Thrives Amid Industry Challenges

Rialto Cinema has carved a niche in the competitive film industry, thriving despite the closure of many independent theaters. The company operates three locations: the Elmwood Theater in Berkeley, the Cerrito Theater in El Cerrito, and Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol. This independent theater group has successfully navigated challenges such as rising rents and the growing popularity of streaming services.

According to Ky J. Boyd, Director of Rialto Cinema, the key to their survival lies in curating unique film offerings that resonate with local audiences. “You open your doors and hope people come and like what you have to show,” Boyd stated. “The world has changed, but I live in hope that people understand the artform that is cinema and the value of watching in the cinema.”

Boyd’s passion for film began in his childhood when he saw the Disney animated classic The Aristocats. Over the years, he cultivated a deep appreciation for independent films and documentaries. In 2000, he realized his dream by opening the Rialto Cinemas Lakeside in Santa Rosa. Despite skepticism from some locals, the theater thrived for over a decade before closing due to lease expiration.

The success of Rialto Cinema continued with the acquisition of the Elmwood Theater in 2007 and the Cerrito Theater in 2009. The Sebastopol location followed in 2012, solidifying the company’s presence in the Bay Area.

Both the Elmwood and Cerrito theaters boast stunning architecture and a commitment to providing diverse programming. The Cerrito Theater, built in 1937, features Art Deco murals and offers a menu that includes warm meals served directly to patrons. The Elmwood, established in 1919, often showcases independent and foreign films, such as the documentary The Last Class, which has drawn sold-out crowds.

The intimate settings of these theaters contribute to their appeal. Paola Jimenez, co-General Manager of the Cerrito Theater, emphasized the pride her team takes in creating memorable experiences for moviegoers. “Even if it’s not a sold-out showing, people showing up matters,” said Victoria Carton, a concession clerk at the Elmwood Theater. “Cinema nerds want to make movies and cinema nerds want to watch movies.”

The community plays a vital role in Rialto Cinema’s ongoing success. Moviegoers like April Hamilton frequent the theaters due to their local charm and consistently engaging film offerings. Hamilton noted the closure of the Albany Twin in 2023, leaving Rialto Cinema as one of the few remaining options for film enthusiasts in the area.

Despite the theater’s resilience, the broader landscape poses challenges. The shuttering of other local venues, including the historic United Artists Theater in 2023, highlights the precarious situation for independent cinemas. Boyd expressed concerns over rising rents and the potential displacement of cherished community spaces. “Yes, we need housing, but at what cost?” he questioned.

Rialto Cinema’s commitment to preserving its unique identity is reflected in its ownership of the Cerrito Theater and the ongoing relationship with the Elmwood Theater Foundation, which saved the Berkeley site from demolition in the 1980s. Boyd recognizes the importance of maintaining these spaces not only for film lovers but also for the cultural fabric of the community.

Rialto Cinema has weathered numerous challenges, including a devastating fire in the 1980s and a flood in the 1990s. The pandemic also tested the resilience of independent theaters worldwide, yet community support and a dedicated audience have propelled Rialto Cinema forward. Boyd summed up the experience, stating, “It’s always a gamble… but at the end of the day, the positives outweigh the negatives.”

As Rialto Cinema continues to thrive, it remains a beacon for cinephiles and a testament to the enduring allure of the big screen, proving that passion and community can prevail even in the face of adversity.