Independent Rialto Cinema Thrives Amid Industry Challenges

Rialto Cinema continues to flourish in the competitive landscape of the Bay Area, even as many independent theaters have closed due to rising rents and the increasing popularity of streaming services. The cinema group, which operates three locations—the Elmwood Theater in Berkeley, the Cerrito Theater in El Cerrito, and Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol—has built a loyal audience by carefully curating its film selections.

According to Ky J. Boyd, the director of Rialto Cinema, the success of their theaters stems from their commitment to showcasing films that resonate with their diverse patrons. Boyd stated, “You open your doors and hope people come and like what you have to show. The world has changed and there are new ways of viewing movies, but I live in hope that people understand the art form that is cinema and the value of watching in the cinema.”

Boyd’s passion for film began in childhood, inspired by the 1970 Disney classic The Aristocats. His journey in the film industry culminated in 2000 when he opened the Rialto Cinemas Lakeside in Santa Rosa. Despite initial skepticism about the viability of an arthouse theater in the area, the Lakeside thrived for over a decade before closing due to lease expiration.

The growth of Rialto Cinema occurred during this time as Boyd acquired the Elmwood Theater in 2007 and the Cerrito Theater in 2009. The Sebastopol location followed in 2012, establishing a small but impactful presence in the local cinema landscape.

In a world where larger chains dominate, the unique charm of Rialto Cinema lies in its intimate settings and personalized offerings. At the Cerrito Theater, moviegoers can enjoy popular films like Barbie (2023) alongside the Elmwood’s independent and foreign selections, such as The Last Class, a documentary featuring former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich.

The historic architecture of both theaters adds to their allure. The Cerrito Theater, built in 1937, features art deco murals and ornate decor, while patrons at the Elmwood Theater, established in 1919, can savor a warm meal delivered to their seats, transforming the cinema experience into something more communal.

Maintaining a vibrant space for film enthusiasts is a priority for Boyd. He emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where viewers can appreciate a range of films beyond mainstream Hollywood. Staff members share this vision; many identify as film aficionados, eager to foster a culture of cinematic appreciation.

“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. We have to make art. That’s how you get your cult classics.”

The reliance on community support has proven to be a lifeline for Rialto Cinema, especially as several local theaters have shuttered in recent years. The Albany Twin closed in 2023, marking the end of an era for cinema in Albany. Landmark Theatres, the parent company, also closed two theaters in Berkeley, contributing to a growing concern over the survival of independent cinemas.

In 2023, the historic United Artists Theater in downtown Berkeley also closed its doors permanently. As these theaters fell victim to a series of closures, Boyd expressed concerns about the future of small businesses in neighborhoods that have long been cultural hubs.

“Rents are going up, and landlords are likely to push out mom-and-pop shops,” Boyd noted. He also highlighted the need to balance housing development with the preservation of cherished community spaces. Recent proposals to increase housing in areas like North Shattuck and College Avenue further fuel his apprehensions.

Despite the challenges, Rialto Cinema remains committed to its mission. The company owns the Cerrito Theater building, having purchased it from the El Cerrito Development Agency, while the Elmwood Theater Foundation has protected the Berkeley site from demolition since the 1980s. This unique arrangement helps safeguard the theaters against potential threats, though Boyd acknowledges that circumstances can change.

Over the years, the Elmwood Theater has weathered various challenges, including a fire and a flood, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic—an event that altered the landscape of the film industry and forced many small businesses to close.

Rialto Cinema’s resilience is a testament to the passion of its staff and the loyalty of its audience. Boyd encapsulated this sentiment by stating, “It’s always a gamble. Believe me, there are parts I don’t love, but at the end of the day, the positives outweigh the negatives.”

As the film industry continues to evolve, Rialto Cinema stands as a beacon for those who cherish the shared experience of cinema, proving that independent theaters can still thrive in a changing world.