Cinefest Film Theatre at Georgia State University
Has a NEW Website
The Cinefest Film Theatre is a student-run movie theater at Georgia State, featuring independent, classic, foreign & cult films.
For a number of years, this was their website.
Content is from their archived pages as well as other sources.
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The current website for the Cinefest Film Theatre at the Georgia State University where you will find all the latest information for events is found at http://spotlight.gsu.edu/cinefest.
Address: 66 Courtland St SE
Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
Phone: +1 404-413-1798
Regular Hours
Concessions open 30 minutes open
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday: 1-9 p.m.
Food and Beverages
Outside food or beverages are not permitted inside the theater. Popcorn, beverages, candy and snack items will be offered for purchase (cash only) from the theater concession stand prior to and during movie operations.
As a graduate of Georgia State University and now the volunteer art director for the Cinefest Film Theatre, I feel incredibly fortunate to remain connected to a place that played such an important role in my student years. Cinefest has always been much more than a movie theater on campus—it’s a creative hub where students discover independent, classic, foreign, and cult films that you simply won’t find in a typical multiplex. That spirit of curiosity and exploration is exactly what makes the theatre such a special part of the Georgia State community.
In my current role helping with visual design and communications, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to updates that celebrate both the theatre’s history and the people who keep it running. One of the things I’m most proud of is the new staff directory we recently launched. Instead of simply listing names and roles, we turned it into a visually engaging section of the site that reflects the creative culture of Cinefest, complete with thoughtful graphic design and beautiful portrait photography.
Those portraits were taken by my former classmate, the incredibly talented photographer Rue Sakayama, who later graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design. Rue has a remarkable ability to capture personality and atmosphere in her images, and her portraits bring a cinematic quality that feels perfectly aligned with the spirit of the theatre. Seeing our staff represented through her work has elevated the entire presentation and given the directory a sense of warmth and personality that visitors immediately notice.
What I love most about Cinefest is that it continues to operate with the same student-driven energy that inspired me when I was an undergraduate. The theatre remains a place where students can encounter films that challenge, inspire, and broaden their perspectives. Being able to give back now—as both an alum and a volunteer—is incredibly meaningful to me. Cinefest remains one of those rare campus institutions that nurtures creativity, community, and a lifelong appreciation for great cinema. Don Duncan
A Nostalgic Look Back to the 2011 & 2012 Films
Sponsors
We are very lucky to announce the acquisition via the alumni association of one very well known sponsor. In addition to a cash donation, The North Face will donate a number of jackets as door prizes to be awarded via sweepstakes held during the first hour of every night of the festival. The Osito jackets are for both men and women and are both fashionable and serviceable - they are incredibly warm and lightweight. Thank you North Face!
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Thursday, October 8th - Italian Film Series |
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Written and directed by Lina Wertmüller Swept Away tells the story of a rich woman, Raffaella,who with some friends has rented a yacht to sail the Mediterranean Sea during summer. The woman verbally abuses Gennarino, a long-suffering crew member, regularly insulting his communist views. The sailor obviously does not like this woman, but has to put up with her arrogantly bad behavior. One day Raffaella, wakes up late in the afternoon and asks to be taken to the land where everyone had gone earlier. During the trip the boat breaks down leaving the pair stranded at sea. They end up on a deserted island and Raffaela is no longer the one in control. The role reversal leads to a predictable but contentious love affair. 2022 UPDATE: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: |
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Monday, October 3rd - Sunday, October 9th |
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A problem with Miguel Angel Vivas’ lengthy and dreary home invasion picture is that he sends out mixed messages and can never be sure where he wants to lead the audience. There will be no screening on Thursday, October 8th at 7pm 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Saturday, October 8th - One Night Only! Rare 35mm Print! |
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DEEP RED is a mystery / thriller / horror film. A classic Argento film. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Monday, October 10th - Sunday, October 16th |
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For approximately 12 months through 2009/10 Rossi shadows journalists on the newly created Media Desk, a department started to tract the transformation of the media landscape and map how new digital advances are going to shape the future of the industry. This unprecedented access to the New York Times newsroom and the lives and daily tasks of three writers yields a complex view of the transformation of a media landscape fraught with both peril and opportunity. Directed by Andrew Rossi. • There will be no 5pm or 7pm screening on Tuesday, October 11th. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Monday, October 17th - Monday, October 24th |
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Directed by Gustavo Hernández, The Silent House is a mystery/thriller/horror film. There will be no screening on Thursday, October 19th, at 7pm as well as no screenings after 3pm on Friday the 20th, through the rest of the weekend. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
![The Silent House - Official Trailer [HD]](images/silenthouse.png)
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Monday, August 27th - Sunday, September 2nd |
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Directed by Ridley Scott, Prometheus is supposedly a quasi-prequel to Alien. A team of explorers travel to to the darkest parts of the universe in search to the origins of mankind on Earth. There, the scientists & their shipmates must fight a terrifying battle to save the future of the human race. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Thursday, August 30th - Italian Film Series |
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Directed by Fausto Brizzi, Notte Prima Degli Esami (Night Before the Exams) takes place in Italy in the mid-1980s. High school student Luca brazenly insults his literature professor but fails to anticipate the teacher's participation in his oral exams. He thus makes a concerted effort to win the prof over, while pining for the class sex kitten whom he soon realizes, is the offended professor's daughter! Luca will try everything to win back Professor Martinelli's admiration and the two of them begin meeting after school under the excuse that he needs revising for the exams. They eventually start to meet because they have become, well almost, friends. 2022 UPDATE: |
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Thursday, August 30th - Monthly Event |
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The last Thursday of each month we will be showing the classic film Lady Terminator. Come on out and have fun with this Indonesian cheesy horror with more than the occasional nod to the eighties classic The Terminator. Lady Terminator, was a former sexy anthropologist on holiday becomes possessed by the spirit of an ancient and evil South Seas Queen after going for a swim in the sea. Lady Terminator, who is invincible to gunfire, can't wait to go on a murderous rampage to get revenge on those who have wronged her. as well as finding some male company for some sexy pleasures. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Tuesday, September 4th - Sunday, September 9th |
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There will be no 7:00pm screening on Wednesday nor 9:00pm screening on Thursday or Friday night due to special event Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is a romance/ comedy directed by Lorene Scafaria. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Wednesday, September 5th - Special Screening |
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The Healthcare Movie, a documentary film was produced by Canadian/American couple Laurie Simons and Terry Sterrenberg. The Healthcare Movie reveals the personal and emotional impact on Canadians who now have access to universal health care because of the heroism of people who took a stand nearly 50 years ago. It also examines the continuing struggle in the US between the fear of government intervention and the right to quality health care for all everyone. The documentary reveals the public relations campaigns over the past century that are designed to dissuade Americans from supporting national health care. |
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Thursday, September 6th - Sonic Nitrate Film Series |
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Instrument:Ten Years with the Band Fugazi is a documentary film directed by Jem Cohen. Cohen's relationship with band member Ian MacKaye extends back to the 1970s when the two met in high school in Washington, D.C. The film takes its title from the Fugazi song of the same name, from their 1993 album, In on the Kill Taker. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Friday, September 7th - VHS Nites Film Series |
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Directed by Shigehiro Ozawa, The Street Fighter is a martial arts caper. Terry Tsurugi is a tough, mercenary, master of martial arts and perhaps an assassin-for-hire. When an important business magnate dies, leaving billions to his daughter, Sarai, the Mafia and Yakuza try to hire Terry to kidnap the daughter. Unwilling to pay his exorbitant price, the Mafia and Yakuzathen try to kill him to conceal their secret plans. He promptly offers his services to protect her. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Monday, September 10th - Sunday, September 16th |
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Directed by Gareth Evans,The Raid: Redemption offers tremendous action and martial arts sequences, along with a lot of drama. An an elite team of commandos becomes trapped in a high-rise apartment block run by a ruthless and brutal crime lord called Tama and his army of killers and thugs. Rama, a rookie member of the commandos takes command and leads the remaining team on a violent charge through the building to not only complete the mission, but also to survive. Garett Evans' filmmaking and fight choreography are brilliant. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
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Thursday, September 20th - Special Screening |
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Soon after the Cuban revolution was won, Fidel Castro commissioned five new schools. They were to be the best art schools in all the world. 2022 UPDATE: CRITIC REVIEW: ~~~ CRITIC REVIEW: AUDIENCE REVIEWS: |
More Background On CineFestFilmTheatre.com
CineFestFilmTheatre.com served for many years as the online home of the Cinefest Film Theatre, a unique student-run cinema located at Georgia State University in downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Though the theatre itself continues to operate under the university’s programs and events infrastructure, the website remains an important digital artifact documenting the programming, philosophy, and cultural role of one of the most distinctive campus cinemas in the southeastern United States.
The Cinefest Film Theatre has long been known for showcasing films that fall outside the mainstream multiplex experience. Independent productions, international cinema, cult classics, documentaries, and special-event screenings have formed the backbone of its programming. Through CineFestFilmTheatre.com, the theatre communicated schedules, special series, film notes, and community events, helping build a devoted audience among students, faculty, Atlanta residents, and visiting cinephiles.
Understanding the significance of CineFestFilmTheatre.com requires looking at the broader context of the theatre itself, the history of campus cinemas in the United States, and the cultural environment of downtown Atlanta’s growing arts scene.
Location and Physical Setting
The Cinefest Film Theatre is located at 66 Courtland Street SE in Atlanta, Georgia, within the campus footprint of Georgia State University. The theatre sits in the heart of downtown Atlanta, only a short distance from major landmarks including the Georgia State University Library, Woodruff Park, and the historic Fairlie-Poplar district.
Its location is significant for several reasons. Georgia State University is one of the largest urban universities in the United States, with tens of thousands of students commuting or living in the downtown area. Unlike campuses located in suburban environments, Georgia State is integrated directly into the city’s commercial and cultural fabric. This urban placement allows Cinefest to draw not only student audiences but also local residents, film enthusiasts, and visitors interested in alternative cinema.
The theatre’s proximity to Atlanta’s larger cultural institutions—including the Fox Theatre, the High Museum of Art, and the Atlanta Film Festival venues—places it within a broader ecosystem of film culture and artistic programming. While these venues often host larger productions or festival premieres, Cinefest has traditionally specialized in curated screenings that emphasize cinematic exploration and discovery.
Origins and Early Development
The Cinefest Film Theatre traces its origins to Georgia State University’s student activities programs, which have historically encouraged student-run initiatives that foster creativity, leadership, and community engagement. Campus cinemas became popular at American universities during the mid-20th century, when film societies and student film clubs began screening classic and foreign films not typically shown in commercial theaters.
At Georgia State, this tradition eventually developed into Cinefest, a fully functioning campus theatre managed largely by students with oversight from university staff. Over time, the program evolved from occasional film screenings into a consistent schedule of programming that included daily showtimes, themed series, and special event screenings.
The website CineFestFilmTheatre.com was created as a dedicated digital platform to promote the theatre’s activities and share information about upcoming films, showtimes, and special events. The site also served as a historical archive documenting past screenings, film series, and community partnerships.
Programming Philosophy
What set Cinefest apart from conventional movie theaters was its carefully curated programming. Rather than focusing solely on blockbuster releases, Cinefest emphasized films that expanded the cultural and intellectual horizons of its audience.
Programming categories commonly included:
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Independent cinema
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International and foreign-language films
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Documentary features
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Classic and repertory cinema
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Cult and genre films
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Special event screenings and film series
This programming strategy mirrored the mission of many university cinemas, which often aim to treat film as an art form rather than purely commercial entertainment.
A typical Cinefest schedule might include modern independent releases during the week, classic genre films on special nights, and curated thematic series highlighting particular directors, movements, or cultural traditions.
For example, the theatre occasionally hosted film series devoted to Italian cinema, cult horror films, or documentary storytelling. These series provided educational value while also attracting enthusiastic audiences eager to explore films rarely screened elsewhere.
Film Series and Special Events
One of the most distinctive features of Cinefest programming was its use of themed film series. These series often introduced audiences to cinematic traditions they might not otherwise encounter.
Examples of past programming themes included:
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Italian film retrospectives
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Sonic Nitrate series focusing on music documentaries
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VHS Nights celebrating retro genre cinema
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Documentary spotlights examining social and political issues
The inclusion of documentaries and international cinema helped reinforce Cinefest’s reputation as a venue for intellectually engaging programming.
Occasional one-night screenings or limited engagements were also common, particularly when rare prints or special guest presentations were available. In some cases, screenings featured 35mm film prints rather than digital projection, appealing to film purists who value traditional cinematic formats.
These events helped transform Cinefest from a simple campus theater into a hub for film culture within the university community.
Audience and Community
The Cinefest audience has historically consisted of a diverse mix of viewers, including:
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Georgia State University students
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Faculty and academic staff
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Local Atlanta residents
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Film scholars and enthusiasts
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Independent filmmakers
Because many screenings were either free or low-cost, Cinefest offered accessible cultural programming to students who might otherwise have limited opportunities to see specialized films in a theatrical setting.
The theatre also fostered an environment where audiences could discover new directors, explore world cinema, and participate in discussions about film history and culture.
For many students, Cinefest represented their first exposure to independent and international filmmaking. These experiences often shaped their appreciation for cinema long after graduation.
The Role of Student Leadership
A defining characteristic of the Cinefest Film Theatre is its status as a student-run operation. Students play major roles in programming decisions, theater operations, marketing, and event coordination.
This structure provides valuable real-world experience for students interested in careers in film, media production, event management, and arts administration.
Student staff members gain experience in areas such as:
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Film programming and curation
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Theater management
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Audience engagement and marketing
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Technical projection and audiovisual systems
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Event planning and logistics
Through these responsibilities, the theatre functions not only as an entertainment venue but also as a training ground for future professionals in the film and media industries.
Concessions and Theater Experience
Although Cinefest is not a commercial multiplex, it still offers the traditional moviegoing experience. Concession stands typically open before screenings and offer classic cinema snacks such as popcorn, candy, and beverages.
This familiar theatre environment helps create an authentic cinematic atmosphere while maintaining the theatre’s academic and artistic mission.
Unlike many commercial theaters, Cinefest historically emphasized affordability and accessibility rather than profit. The goal has always been to encourage students and community members to attend screenings regularly and engage with film culture.
Partnerships and Sponsorship
Like many university programs, Cinefest has benefited from support from sponsors and alumni organizations.
At various points in its history, sponsors have contributed funding or promotional support for events and film festivals associated with the theatre. Alumni involvement has also helped sustain programming initiatives and special events.
Such partnerships demonstrate how university arts programs often rely on a combination of institutional support, alumni engagement, and community partnerships to thrive.
Digital Presence and the Role of CineFestFilmTheatre.com
The CineFestFilmTheatre.com website served as a central hub for information about the theatre’s programming and activities. It featured film descriptions, showtimes, event announcements, and background information about the theatre’s mission.
The site functioned as both a promotional tool and a historical archive, preserving records of past screenings and film series.
In the early 2010s—when the site was particularly active—many independent cinemas relied heavily on websites to reach audiences. Social media had not yet fully replaced traditional web platforms as the primary method of event promotion.
As Georgia State University expanded its centralized event platforms, much of Cinefest’s current information eventually migrated to university-hosted pages and event calendars. Nevertheless, CineFestFilmTheatre.com remains a valuable snapshot of the theatre’s earlier digital presence.
Cultural and Educational Impact
The Cinefest Film Theatre represents more than a campus entertainment venue. It plays a meaningful role in the cultural and intellectual life of Georgia State University.
Film screenings can serve as catalysts for discussion about topics such as:
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politics and social justice
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artistic expression
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global cultures and perspectives
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media literacy and storytelling
By presenting films that challenge conventional narratives, Cinefest encourages audiences to engage critically with media and storytelling.
In this sense, the theatre aligns with broader academic goals of fostering curiosity, dialogue, and cross-cultural understanding.
Cinefest Within Atlanta’s Film Culture
Atlanta has become one of the most important film production hubs in the United States, with major studios and television productions operating throughout the metropolitan area.
Within this context, Cinefest plays a complementary role by focusing on film exhibition and education rather than production. Its programming connects audiences with cinematic traditions from around the world.
The theatre also contributes to Atlanta’s reputation as a city that supports independent and alternative cinema.
Other local institutions, including film festivals and repertory theaters, share similar goals. Together they form a network that strengthens the city’s cultural landscape.
Press Coverage and Reputation
While Cinefest may not receive the same national press attention as major film festivals or commercial theaters, it has earned recognition within university circles and local arts communities.
Students and faculty frequently describe the theatre as one of Georgia State University’s hidden gems. Its intimate setting and thoughtful programming create an environment that encourages exploration and conversation.
For alumni, Cinefest often becomes a cherished memory associated with their time at the university. Many graduates recall discovering favorite films or directors during screenings at the theatre.
This enduring affection demonstrates how campus cultural institutions can leave lasting impressions on students’ lives.
Evolution and the Future
As digital streaming platforms continue to transform how audiences consume media, university cinemas face new challenges in maintaining relevance. However, Cinefest’s emphasis on community viewing and curated programming offers something streaming services cannot replicate.
The shared experience of watching films in a theater—especially with an engaged audience—remains a powerful aspect of cinema culture.
Cinefest continues to evolve as part of Georgia State University’s arts programming, adapting to new technologies while preserving its mission of promoting cinematic discovery.
The legacy of CineFestFilmTheatre.com reflects this evolution. Even as the theatre’s digital presence has shifted to new platforms, the original site remains a testament to the passion and creativity of the students and organizers who built Cinefest into a vibrant cultural institution.
CineFestFilmTheatre.com represents an important chapter in the history of the Cinefest Film Theatre at Georgia State University. Through its programming, community engagement, and student leadership, the theatre has provided generations of viewers with opportunities to explore cinema beyond mainstream entertainment.
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Cinefest bridges the gap between academic life and the broader cultural world. It introduces students to global film traditions, supports independent cinema, and fosters conversations about art, culture, and storytelling.
Although the digital landscape has evolved since the website’s creation, the spirit behind Cinefest remains unchanged. The theatre continues to embody the idea that cinema can inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection within a community.
For students, alumni, and film lovers alike, Cinefest stands as a reminder that great cinema is not defined by budget or box office success, but by its ability to challenge perspectives and bring people together.