News Summary
Columbia welcomes a fresh cinematic experience with the opening of The Babylon Kino, a cozy underground film screening venue located at 631 Harden St. With a capacity of 40 in an intimate setting, this venue aims to revive local indie film culture and host unique genres, including small festivals. Set to debut on February 7, 2025, it promises to be a community hub for filmmakers and cinephiles alike, offering screenings along with popcorn, beer, and wine. Follow their social media to stay updated on ticket sales for a chance to rekindle your love for cinema.
Exciting New Film Screening Venue “The Babylon Kino” Opens in Columbia!
Columbia, get ready to grab your popcorn and settle into a cozy seat—there’s a new kid on the block, and it’s bringing a fresh wave of cinematic experience to Five Points! Say hello to the Babylon Kino, a charming underground film screening venue that’s set to make its grand debut at 631 Harden St. Just across from the beloved New Brookland Tavern, this cute space is nestled on the neglected second story of an office building, and it is ready to transform into a haven for film lovers.
A Unique Cinema Experience Awaits!
With a cozy capacity of around 40 people in a snug one-screen room, the Babylon Kino spans a cozy 1,000 square feet. This intimate setting is perfect for those seeking an alternative to the mainstream rush of larger theaters. The doors will swing open for the first screenings in February 2025, so mark your calendars and prepare for an experience that’s sure to excite both die-hard cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike!
Bringing Back the Lowbrow Cinema Explosion
Remember the First Friday Lowbrow Cinema Explosion? It was all the rage in the 2010s when obscure films delighted audiences at the Nickelodeon theater. Well, the Babylon Kino is bringing it back! This venue is on a mission to revive that exciting atmosphere and create a space where you can discover those quirky films that spark conversation and curiosity.
A Hub for Local Filmmakers
The vision behind this project is none other than a passionate local filmmaker and journalist who has been in the thick of Columbia’s film scene. The Babylon Kino aims to fill the creative void left by the pandemic’s toll on Columbia’s indie film culture, especially after the Indie Grits film festival was canceled due to COVID-19. Local filmmakers have been feeling the pinch, as opportunities at the Nickelodeon have decreased since its shift towards more mainstream offerings. Now, this new venue is stepping in to provide fresh opportunities!
Not only will the Babylon Kino showcase indie films, but it will also host small film festivals focusing on niche genres like vampire or zombie movies. It’s a chance for local filmmakers to premiere their latest projects and build a real community of cinema enthusiasts who can come together, enjoy films, and discuss their passions. It’s cinema as it should be—fun, accessible, and community-driven.
More Than Just Movies
But wait, there’s more! The Babylon Kino isn’t just about screening films. It will serve as a workspace for local creatives and double as storage for their projects. Imagine the buzz of creative energy as filmmakers collaborate in this vibrant environment! Speaking of energy, don’t worry about going hungry or thirsty during screenings. The venue will provide popcorn, beer, and wine, ensuring a delightful experience as you immerse yourself in the world of film.
Get Your Tickets the Social Media Way!
In a twist on traditional movie ticketing, the Babylon Kino will share screening information and sell tickets primarily through social media and good old word of mouth. Make sure to follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram (@thebabylonkino) so you don’t miss out! Get ready to be a part of Columbia’s movie renaissance.
Don’t Miss the Grand Opening!
Are you as excited as we are? The countdown to the Babylon Kino’s first event is on! Join fellow film enthusiasts on February 7, 2025, for an unforgettable evening that promises to rekindle your love for cinema. This isn’t just another cinema—this is a place where creativity, community, and quirky films come to life! So gather your friends, bring your best movie buddy, and get ready for an exhilarating ride through the world of independent cinema.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Los Angeles Gears Up for Exciting Festivals, Business Innovations, and Sustainable Changes
Early Bird Sale for 2025 Beaufort International Film Festival Tickets
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Film Festival
- The Phoblographer
- Google Search: Independent Film Community
- Roger Ebert
- Google Scholar: Cinematic Experience
- DW
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Film Cinema
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
