Rialto Cinema continues to flourish in the Bay Area while many independent theaters have succumbed to rising rents and fierce competition from streaming services. With three locations—the Elmwood Theater in Berkeley, Cerrito Theater in El Cerrito, and Rialto Cinemas Sebastopol—the theater group has crafted a unique experience for film lovers. According to Ky J. Boyd, the theater director, the careful selection of films plays a key role in attracting audiences.
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.” His passion for film dates back to his childhood in Montana, where he first watched the 1970 Disney animated classic, “The Aristocats.”
In 2000, Boyd realized his dream of opening an arthouse theater in Santa Rosa named Rialto Cinemas Lakeside. Despite initial skepticism about the theater’s potential, it thrived for over a decade before closing due to lease expiration. During that time, the Rialto Cinema expanded by acquiring the Elmwood Theater in 2007 and the Cerrito Theater in 2009. The Sebastopol location opened in 2012, solidifying the group’s presence in the region.
The theaters are known for their curated film selections, which include popular titles like 2023’s hit film “Barbie” and documentaries such as “The Last Class,” featuring former U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Boyd noted that sold-out screenings with Reich included engaging question-and-answer sessions, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the cinematic experience.
The architectural charm of the theaters further enhances their appeal. The Cerrito Theater, built in 1937, showcases Art Deco murals, original woodwork, and ornate chandeliers. Patrons can enjoy a diverse menu that includes gourmet nachos, burgers, and pizzas, all designed to be easily consumed in a dark setting.
Creating enjoyable viewing spaces is essential for Boyd, who believes that cinema should encompass more than just mainstream films. “Even if it’s not a sold-out showing, people showing up matters,” said Victoria Carton, a concession clerk at the Elmwood Theater. She added, “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 Rialto Cinemas provide a more intimate experience compared to larger chains. Paola Jimenez, co-general manager of Cerrito Theater, expressed pride in the team’s contributions to customer experiences. “The space is special to me,” she said, having grown up attending films there.
The theaters serve as important cultural hubs, promoting storytelling in a communal environment. “Being in the dark with strangers, all experiencing the same thing, hearing those laughs or gasps, you feel connected to something larger,” said Philippe Matheus, co-general manager of the Elmwood Theater.
Despite the challenges faced in recent years, including the closure of other local theaters like the Albany Twin in 2023 and the last downtown theater in Berkeley, the Rialto Cinemas have managed to endure. Boyd acknowledges the necessity for housing development but raises concerns about the potential loss of cherished cultural spaces.
Proposals to increase housing in Berkeley raise alarms for Boyd, who fears that rising land values could lead to increased rents and the displacement of small businesses. He emphasized, “The Elmwood District and College Avenue are special. It’s walkable and has a personality that the community has spent a long time developing. You can’t just knock down buildings and build taller. We’ll lose the soul and what makes it special.”
The Rialto Cinema group has weathered numerous challenges, including a devastating fire in the 1980s, a flood in the 1990s, and even a vehicle collision in 2023. Throughout the global pandemic, which crippled many businesses, community support remained a vital lifeline for the theaters.
Boyd remains hopeful as he reflects on the future. “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.” The Rialto Cinemas continue to thrive, showcasing the enduring appeal of cinema in an evolving entertainment landscape.
