After almost two years of halted operations due to the pandemic, Cinema 76 Film Society has finally reopened its Anonas branch in Quezon City.
To mark its opening week, blockbuster titles like Shang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Rings, and Princess Diana’s biopic Spencer are made available for cinemagoers while Marvel Studios’ Eternals unspools tomorrow. This year’s Metro Manila Film Festival entries will also be screened come Christmas time.
The microcinema, known as a populist venue to watch films not usually released in major theaters, was no stranger to the economic effects of the lockdown imposed in March 2020. Cinema 76 had to let go of some of its staff despite all hopes that movie theaters would reopen last year.
Last September, Cinema ‘76 posted an announcement on the permanent closure of its San Juan branch, which prompted thousands of Cinema ‘76 patrons and movie fans to share their cherished memories of the beloved microcinema’s original location.
To pivot during these challenging times, the company opened its movie-themed Cinema 76 Cafe in June, attracting cinephiles who missed the experience of being inside a cinema. Some of the microcinema’s staff underwent training to serve as baristas at Cinema 76 Cafe.
Despite being a newcomer in the F&B industry, the cafe enjoyed raves from the public. Now, Cinema ‘76 is primed for imminent recovery. Following the eased restrictions on film exhibitions, Cinema ‘76 opened its doors once again on Nov. 17.
“A lot of people have been requesting for us to reopen soon and we are delighted to finally welcome everyone back to Cinema ‘76,” said Daphne Chi, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Cinema 76.
Chi added that Cinema ‘76 made sure film buffs will have a safe theater experience by following safety protocols mandated by the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (ATF) and Quezon City COVID-19 guidelines.
This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of the cinema before and after the screening and presentation of full vaccination cards, including minors. Moviegoers are also encouraged to come earlier than their screening time to allow for health checks and to fill out digital contact tracing forms upon entry. Food and drinks are also not allowed inside the cinema but patrons enjoy drinks and meals at the open-air Cafe just below Cinema ‘76.
Chiu also shared that Cinema ‘76 is open for private screenings “especially for those who would feel more comfortable sharing the cinema with their loved ones.
Cinema ‘76 is located on the third floor of Anonas LRT City Center along Aurora Boulevard. It can also be accessed via a bridgeway from the Anonas LRT-2 Station.
For booking inquiries, email cinema76filmsociety@amail.com or 0977-705-4276. Join the conversation online using the hashtag #kitakitsSaCinema76 and follow Cinema 76 on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.