Street cinemas are part of Rio de Janeiro’s history and culture. For many years, movie theaters in different parts of the city were leisure options for cariocas, showing a variety of national and international titles. Over time, Rio de Janeiro’s street cinemas have lost ground, but they are still going strong!
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Estação NET
The Estação Group has cinemas in the South Zone of Rio and is one of the street cinemas that has resisted the crisis. With units in Botafogo and Gávea, Estação NET has a very varied program, with famous titles and those from the independent circuit .
In addition, the group’s cinemas also host themed events and alternative times, such as early morning and late night screenings.
📌Rua Voluntários da Pátria, 35 | Voluntários da Pátria, 88 – Botafogo
📌Rua Marques de São Vicente, 52 – Gávea
Cinesystem Botafogo
Facing Botafogo beach, going to Cinesystem, the former Espaço Itaú, is a great outing.
In addition to the privileged view, the street cinema has a modern atmosphere, very close to bus and subway lines. The program is also very varied, with titles for all tastes, including children.
📌Praia de Botafogo, 316 – Botafogo
Cine Santa Teresa
Considered Rio’s most attractive neighborhood, it’s clear that Santa Teresa also has a street cinema to call its own.
Located in Largo do Guimarães, next to the cable car stop, it shows international films (including Oscar nominees) and even has a Cine Santa Friends Club for residents and friends of the neighborhood.
📌Rua Paschoal Carlos Magno, 136 – Santa Teresa
Kinoplex São Luiz
The old Cine São Luiz opened in the 1930s and became a real sensation among the street cinemas because of its architecture and luxury items.
It was also the first of the old cinemas in the center to receive film releases. Over the years and after a major refurbishment, it became part of the Kinoplex chain and has 4 screens. However, it is an option for those looking for a quieter movie theater, outside the malls.
Rua do Catete, 311 – loja 203/204 – Catete
Cinema Nosso
Cinema Nosso is an organization that works with innovation, with the aim of bringing new narratives to Brazilian audiovisuals. It offers free courses in cinema, series, games and everything related to digital culture.
But the space also holds events, festivals and film screenings for those who love immersing themselves in this universe. It’s worth keeping an eye on the program!
📌Rua do Rezende, 80 – Centro
Afro Carioca Film Center
For those who want to delve deeper into Afro-Brazilian culture and identity, the Centro Afro Carioca de Cinema is a must. This is because, with productions by black filmmakers and artists, the space promotes screenings of national and international films.
In addition, there are always debates, exhibitions, book launches and many cultural activities, with the aim of valuing and honoring ancestry. Free and not to be missed!
📌Rua Joaquim Silva, 40 – Centro
CineCarioca Méier
There was a time when Rio’s North Zone was a benchmark for street cinemas. Unfortunately, many of these spaces have been closed down and there are only a few left.
Among them is CineCarioca Méier, which is located inside another iconic place in Rio de Janeiro: Imperator. It has three theaters and is open every day of the week, showing different films that appeal to everyone. Go there!
📌Rua Dias da Cruz, 170 – Méier
