Cinema Paradiso Hollywood’s Kick-Off Party
Thursday, February 28 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Face
2022 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL 33020

The Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is proud to support the  Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF) in launching its $100,000 Capital Campaign for Cinema Paradiso Hollywood – a new movie theater in the heart of Downtown at 2008 Hollywood Boulevard.  Receiving unanimous support from the City of Hollywood on January 9 with a vote to inject $30,000 toward promoting audience outreach, this pledge will play a pivotal role in spearheading the Cinema Paradiso funding drive.  Under the helm of FLIFF Chairman Alan Koslow, the Capital Campaign has been set in rapid motion to raise monies for building renovations in preparation of a summer opening.

Cinema Paradiso Hollywood’s Kick-Off Party aims to rally business owners, elected officials and film aficionados to help FLIFF reach its goal; admission contribution is $20, which includes a welcome cocktail and complimentary hors d’oeuvres.  Leading by example, Janet Leavy Schwartz, long-time FLIFF patron, active board member and volunteer coordinator today became the very first private donor of Cinema Paradiso Hollywood, naming the sidewalk café in honor of her parents (Lillian & Kal Lustig).

"Downtown Hollywood is on the precipice of greatness,” said Koslow.  “Cinema Paradiso is the missing ingredient to the current mix of restaurants, retail stores and cultural events. We’re thrilled that the Hollywood community is already embracing FLIFF’s initiative to offer new and interesting films at the historic location. This is just the beginning of FLIFF’s mark on the ‘reel Hollywood.’"
 
Gregory Von Hausch, FLIFF President and CEO, envisions a compelling program of independent and foreign films, ranging from award-winning to undiscovered gems, and select first-run commercial pictures.  “I am so enthused with the prospect of Cinema Paradiso Hollywood,” said Gregory Von Hausch, President and CEO of FLIFF.  “The residents of Hollywood represent our prime demographic: articulate and aware, knowledgeable about cinema, literature, art and current events, and they enjoy going out.  Put that together with the city’s exciting arts revival and you have a strong foundation for economic and cultural growth.”  In addition to programming, the venue will be made available for rental, festivals and special projects. 
 
Redesigned by Broward-based architect Joseph Kaller, the former pottery store will be transformed into one 110-seat theater replete with wheelchair access and a full bar.  Though enhanced by the latest in cinematic technology and a digital marquee, Kaller’s vision respects the property’s “Old Hollywood” charm with a Deco Moderne line and decorative façade. 
 
“Cinema Paradiso Hollywood will be an amenity that will attract visitors and residents of Hollywood,” said Jorge Camejo, Executive Director of Hollywood CRA.
 
The Hollywood CRA’s commitment to the arts includes the Downtown Hollywood Mural Project and ArtsPark Live!, designed to boost and encourage a thriving social, cultural and economic landscape.  For more information about Cinema Paradiso in Downtown Hollywood or to make a donation, please email info@fliff.com .