A Cinematic Milestone at 44 Stanley
The Bioscope at 44 Stanley
This June, The Bioscope Independent Cinema celebrates 15 years of film, community, and culture in Johannesburg — and five of those years have been at its new home right here at 44 Stanley.
Founded in 2010 by Russell Grant and Darryl Els, The Bioscope began as a bold idea in a university thesis: could an independent cinema thrive in Johannesburg? What followed was a leap of faith, test screenings in lecture halls, and an early home in Maboneng that quickly became a cultural landmark.
From the very beginning, The Bioscope carved out a unique place in the city’s creative life — offering an alternative to the mainstream, with a programme shaped by curiosity, global perspective, and deep local relevance. Think Nosferatu, Poor Things, George Bizos in the front row, or M.I.A. slipping into a screening. You never knew who might walk in, or what you might discover.
A NEW CHAPTER AT 44 STANLEY
In 2020, The Bioscope relocated to 44 Stanley — seeking a quieter, more focused atmosphere that better matched its evolving identity. Despite its precarious timing (the cinema was scheduled to open in April 2020), here, it has found a home that complements its philosophy: thoughtful, unpretentious, and intimate. From the car seat chairs to the indie playlists, everything about the cinema feels intentional and personal.
Inside the Bioscope
“Russell and I started chatting at 44 Stanley when he had a brief pop-up of his Limited Edish brand at the end of 2019. He mentioned how he felt an ease the moment he walked into the precinct — and, as is typical of me, I threw out an idea: why don’t you move The Bioscope here?
Of course, I had no idea where it could actually go — the size and height requirements were obvious challenges — but I knew, culturally, it could be a significant shift for the precinct. Like the bookshops, galleries and record stores, The Bioscope would add something rare and essential. A ticketed venue also plays a vital role in driving people to a centre.
I’m grateful that, with some clever thinking from the directors and a bit of good timing, the move happened just before lockdown. I honestly don’t know if The Bioscope would have survived in Maboneng after March 2020.
Since relocating, The Bioscope has added enormous value and character to 44 Stanley — deepening our cultural offering and creating a home for film lovers that feels both intimate and iconic.”
More Than a Cinema
Today, The Bioscope isn’t just about what’s on screen — it’s about the people behind it. Owen, Silin, Bongi, Portia, Polite, and Swenkie have become familiar faces, forming the heart of the cinema. In celebration of the milestone, The Bioscope has launched a Birthday Staff Fundraiser. When booking a ticket in May, June, or July, guests can opt to add a donation that goes directly to the team.
“It’s a marathon. If you’re not winning this week, focus on making next week all it can be. That’s how we’ve survived.”
Looking Ahead
Fifteen years in, The Bioscope continues to evolve — hosting film screenings, comedy nights, private events, and experimental formats. But its ethos remains unchanged: only curate what you believe in. Only share what you love.
“I’ve always wished for The Bioscope to be a heritage site. I want it to live on long after me.”
Happy 15th, Bioscope.
From all of us at 44 Stanley — thank you for the films, the friendships, and the fearless programming. Here’s to the next act.
While their official 15th birthday is June 8th, special programming will be running 6-8 June as well as throughout the month — check their website to book tickets to screenings or to participate in their birthday staff fundraiser running May, June and July.
