Imagine this: You’re diving into a vast world of independent cinematic craftsmanship that’s barely been touched, let alone been viewed, by a Worcester audience. You’re lounging in an informal, public space, surrounded by couches and tables, with other people from the community. With all of its differences, the audience is able to sample and discuss numerous cultures and viewpoints, all over some local beer or wine.

Luckily for the community, Andy Grigorov, of Barre and founder of Cinema-Worcester, has imagined that, too!

Having had an interest in independent cinema since his college days at Worcester’s own Clark University – and after taking an international film course – Grigorov realized that independent and foreign films resonated with him more than mainstream movies, although he enjoys both.

“There’s this whole universe of movies that don’t have a lot of exposure, I think,” Grigorov said. “I think they’re just so much more interesting, and there’s so much more that’s shared culturally with these different forms of expression from different countries and different viewpoints.”

Currently, there isn’t a non-profit, independent, full-time, community cinema for Worcester; Cinema-Worcester plans to fill that gap in the continuously expanding arts and culture scene in the city.

Although not a non-profit organization at the moment, Grigorov’s hopes Cinema-Worcester will gain the notoriety and support to build a steady, entertaining, inspiring and educational community theater through foreign films, cult classics, family fare and more.

It’s not just strictly sitting down to watch a film, however. Past events at various locations include a guitar swap-sell-trade, live music and a film screening (all in one night); even a showing of Best F(r)iends that included a Q&A session with Greg Sestero (most famously known for his role as Mark in the cult-classic The Room).
“Wherever we can bring a food vendor in or an appearance by someone who was involved or affected by the film gives it something a little extra besides just sitting down to watch a movie – it’s a more memorable experience,” Grigorov said.

Drawing inspiration from organizations such as Worcester’s late Bijou Cinema, Amherst Cinema and The Luna Theater in Lowell, Grigorov is in search of a permanent location for Cinema-Worcester to settle in and call home.

“I’d be happy with any renovated factory space… as long as it’s got high ceilings and can seat one to two-hundred people in it comfortably. I’d be willing to give it a try… it’s been a challenge currently because we have to jump around from place to place… I think it would give us a lot more opportunities to show films more regularly, obviously, if we had a regular space that you could just go to,” Grigorov said.

Grigorov says he’s been learning a lot about the ins and outs of running a not-for-profit organization and is loving it. With advice and guidance from different independent cinemas, such as Cinema 320 at Clark University, he’s certainly on the right track. With non-profit status on the horizon, Grigorov hopes Cinema-Worcester will gather enough steam to become a full-time operation, maybe even a full-time job for himself.

Currently, Grigorov is looking for volunteers and people connected to the Worcester arts scene that have experience in cinema operations and film in general and people who have experience with non-profit management to create a board.

Like any new project or organization, a following is needed for it to be sustainable. Gridorov encourages the community to come out to an event. Unlike your traditional cinema experience, you’ll be able to engage in discussion before and after the screening. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite film.

“I think Worcester could use another kind of entertainment option. With all of the new restaurants and things, hopefully people will come out,” Grigorov said.

Upcoming Events:

• Enjoy a special night of silent film with live music. View The Passion of Joan of Arc, directed by Carl Th. Dreyer in 1928, with a live score, string quartet and electronics. 8-10 p.m., Sept. 15; The Sprinkler Factory, 38 Harlow St., Worcester; $20.
• Rodents of Unusual Size, presented by the director in person, will have you questioning who’ll be victorious – the plague of giant swamp rats in Louisiana or the folks who live there. 7-9 p.m., Sept. 21; The Park View Room, 230 Park Ave., Worcester; $10.

Visit cinema-worcester.com for more information and like it on Facebook; reach out and suggest a film for a future showing!

Savanah Hippert