Cate Blanchett has expressed her support for the reopening of the Metropolitan Cinema in Beirut, Lebanon, on Saturday.
“This is a fantastic achievement and I congratulate everyone involved in the opening of the Metropolis Cinema in downtown Beirut,” Blanchett said in a message read at the official opening ceremony in the city’s Mar Mihael district.
“Not only will it be a space where Lebanese cinema can flourish and new voices emerge, but in these tragic, heartbreaking and confusing times, this venue in Mar Mihael is a testament to resilience and cultural renaissance – bringing stories to life Bringing it to life and uniting the community,” she added.
The 18-year-old cinema had to cease operations during Lebanon’s economic crisis in 2019.
On December 21, the Metropolis Cinema opened in Beirut, Lebanon.
Photo by Ammar Abd Rabbo/Metropolis Cinema
Most recently, the year-long war between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah forces has further delayed the official reopening of the Met’s cinemas from early October to this weekend. Featuring two indoor cinemas, an outdoor cinema and a green area with a café, the new venue in Mar Mikhael can host film professionals, artists and film lovers and is part of Beirut’s important cultural hub.
Capernaum Director Nadine Labaki, who is Lebanese and Canadian, added in a statement read out at the official opening: “We all know that, given the current situation, we need spaces like this more than ever. . What is happening is proof that Lebanon has not lost its spirit and this hall is not just a cinema, it is also a refuge for many dreams, wishes and ideas. It is wonderful to see that despite all this, there are still people who dare to sow beauty, art and culture. .
Metropolis Cinema in Beirut, Lebanon opens on December 21, 2024.
