The iconic Metropolis Cinema has reopened in the heart of Beirut’s Mar Mikhael district, marking a powerful moment of cultural revival after years of economic, political, and social turmoil. The reopening ceremony on Saturday drew messages of support from global and local film icons, including Academy Award-winning actress Cate Blanchett and acclaimed Lebanese filmmaker Nadine Labaki.
Blanchett, in a message read during the event, praised the reopening as a milestone for Lebanese cinema and a beacon of hope in challenging times. “This is a remarkable achievement, and I extend my congratulations to everyone involved in the opening of the Metropolis Cinema in the heart of Beirut,” she said.
She added, “Not only will it be a space where Lebanese cinema can flourish and new voices can emerge, but in these deeply tragic, heartbreaking and bewildering times, this venue in Mar Mikhael stands as a testament to resilience and cultural revival — bringing stories to life and uniting the community.”
Established 18 years ago, Metropolis Cinema had been a cornerstone for independent cinema in Lebanon until it was forced to close during the economic crisis of 2019. The devastating Beirut port explosion in 2020, which caused widespread destruction across the city, further delayed its revival.
More recently, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which disrupted plans for an October reopening, pushed the launch to this weekend. Despite these setbacks, the new Metropolis Cinema now stands as a fully revamped cultural hub, featuring two indoor theaters, an outdoor cinema, and a green space with a café.
Celebrating the reopening, Lebanese-Canadian director Nadine Labaki shared her optimism in a heartfelt message, said, “We all know that we need a space like this more than ever given the current circumstances. What’s happening is proof that Lebanon doesn’t lose its spirit, and this hall isn’t just a movie theater, it’s also a refuge for many dreams, aspirations and ideas. It’s really wonderful to see that despite everything, there are still people who dare to sow beauty, art and culture.”
The new venue aims to serve as more than just a movie theater; it is envisioned as a gathering space for film professionals, artists, and cinephiles, symbolizing a shared commitment to artistic expression and community building.
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