Thinking about cinematography of Northern Europe brings to mind indie alternative movies, gritty crime dramas and the popularity of documentaries. It comes as no surprise that Stockholm’s independent cinemas deliver just that. Screenings of classics and art films is expected, while discussing sensitive topics in movies and society is something only the best independent cinemas offer. We present some of those in the following list.
1. Zita Folkets Bio
Building, Cinema, Movie Theater
Zita Folkets Bio, or People’s Cinema, is one of the few non-profit cinemas in Stockholm. Opened in 1913, this art nouveau building used to host a p*rnography cinema. Today, Zita is a small art house cinema, showing quality independent films from classics, documentaries and short films to contemporary international features. Stop by daily after 6pm to catch one of the free screenings of short movies. As well as film screenings, Zita hosts different festivals, seminars and themed event too. One of the upcoming themes is Refugees and Society, shown through four movies in one evening.
2. Bio Rio
Bar, Bistro
Bio Rio
Bio Rio is a cinema dating back to 1940s. The warm and cozy interior create a relaxed atmosphere, where locals love to hang out to see a combination of contemporary and alternative films, or join in on different discussions. One of their most popular events is Salong 4, with sofas and beanbags replacing the usual rows of chairs. The hall also comes with its own bar service. Bio Rio is also known for their Filmfrukost or film breakfast, where you can enjoy a tasty brunch while seeing one of the movies.
Bio Rio, Hornstulls strand 3, Stockholm, Sweden, +46 8 669 95 00
Bio Rio I © Hannu Makarainen/Flickr
3. Tellus
Cinema, Movie Theater
Tellus combines a café and movie theatre, run by locals through a non-profit organization. Stop by to see a random movie, be it an old classic or one of summer blockbusters, in a movie theatre from 1920s. If you’re hungry, you can grab a bite at the café, with everything prepared by local volunteers. The interior is an eclectic mix of old and modern décor, with vintage sofas and foldable chairs. Besides film screenings, Tellus hosts literary gatherings, concerts, knitting courses and jazz nights too.
4. Kulturhuset Stadsteatern
Cinema, Theater
Kulturhuset is a great place to wander around, visit an art exhibition, listen to a concert, or indeed see a movie. Kulturhuset is one of the largest cultural institutions in Northern Europe, revolving around and combining different displays of culture. The cinema showcases alternative movies from the region, promoting culture of the Nordic countries. The program also includes documentaries, biographies and screenings of ongoing theater performances around the world. Different themed weeks are organized to promote the cinematography of selected countries.
5. Cosmonova
Cinema, Museum, Art Gallery
Cosmonova is a modern cinema, part of the Swedish Museum of Natural History. The cinema screens different nature related movies. Currently the program includes Galapagos introduction, Journey to the South Pacific and Titans of the Ice Age. Cosmonova art house is distinctive by its dome shaped screen and viewing experience. The movies are in Swedish language, however the cinema offers earphones for translation. While the admission to the museum is free, a small entry fee is requested for the cinema.
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