1

4th year research project

(Honours)

Topic:

“Problems at the Cinema Venues in Cape Town in the recent years”

Picture: THINKSTOCK

Supervisor : Mr. Leslie Lendis

Lecturer (Producing).
AFDA.

Student name :
Ashraf , Abul Fazul Mohammad.
Student no : 901061.
4th Year (Honours)
Discipline: Directing.
.e-mail: nayan.ashraf@gmail.com
ph:0027- 0845399919.

AFDA
(The South African school of motion picture medium and live performance.)
18, Scott Road, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa. 021-4487600
2013.
 2

Contents

Page

1. Introduction 3-4.
2. History of Cinema Venues: 5-7.
3. South African cinema venues business: 8.
4. Cape Town cinema venues business: 9-14
5. Death cinema venues: (Bijou) 15-18.
6. Cape Town public opinions about the topic: 19-36.
7. Conclusion: 37-38.
8. Recommendations 39.

REFERENCES : 40-41.

Thanks: 42.
 3

Introduction:

Cape Town is one the most beautiful cities in the world. South African people
call it the mother city. Cape Town is the cultural capital of the entire African
continent. The population of Cape Town is 3.7 million (S. C. C-2012). A
diverse group of people live in this metropolitan city. Majority are educated,
they love art and culture, and film as well. Ironically, majority of the audience
that watches films do not go to the cinemas anymore to watch them. They
rather rent or buy newly released DVDs from the nearest DVD/Video rental
shops when they desire to see new movies. As a result, the fact that there
were 25 cinema venues in cape town of which 7 have already been shut down,
becomes burning but incongruous truth.

Generally majority of the Cape Town people watch films by renting or buying
DVDs, via internet /Online, on TV and cable channels and often by visiting
Cinema halls or venues. South Africa was undoubtedly one of the first
countries in the world that started playing motion pictures. Lingards
Waxworks in Durban, who exhibited a number of mechanical novelties of the
penny-in-the-slot variety, first showed films here in August 1895. One of
those films was using a Kinetophone.

Compare to the rest of the African continent, South African cinema venues or
halls are larger in size. However, in worlds prospective these halls are not that
big. However, the whole culture of cinema halls is still growing. There are
nearly about 700 Cinema venues or hall in South Africa. South African
cinema business began early in the 20th century. Most of the halls were built
early in the 20th century. Later part of 20th century and 21st century had not
been good for cinema hall business in South Africa. Majority of the South
African audience are no longer watching the new movies at cinema halls
anymore. For this reason business of this sector is dying day by day.
Entrepreneurs in this sector are less interested in opening up new cinema
venues in Cape Town. Entertainment Industry in other sectors is growing lot
faster than cinema venues. Farther more, South African Government do not
provide subsidies or careful nurturing in this industry. However, it is needless
to say that business sector can create new jobs for the massive unemployed
people of South Africa.
 4

At present, the film & cinema venues business of the world are going through
crisis. Cinema halls have to compete with forever changing rapid
technological world. Hall owners do not control the life style of people, how
people choose to entertain themselves. In the Arabian countries and in many
other third world countries, film & cinema industry are in jeopardy.
Audiences in African, Arabian and Asian countries say, cinema hall or venues
facility is not good enough, film is not good, and most films do not come up
with good stories. Therefore, public in those countries loose their interest in
going to cinema halls to watch a new film. Audience and their mind must be
taken into consideration at all times during making of a film.

South African Film Industry has a heritage of 107 years. Yet, the quality of
productions will make it hard to believe they have been in the business over
hundred years. It seems it is still in the incubator stage. Therefore, the filming
industry in South Africa needs to be take care of so that it can contribute
eloquently in the filming world. It is important to note that venues or halls
are the heart of the film industry. It is predicted that South African film
industry will be one of the biggest film industries in the world (source).

Earlier in the essay it is mentioned that 7 out of 25 halls are not running their
cinema venues business: It is hard to imagine that every cinema hall will be a
successful business but when the ratio of failure is so great ( a staggering 28
%), one would point out this as a crisis matter which needs thoughtful
research and investigation why such a high failure rate.

This research will play a significant role not only for the Cape Town cinema
venues or halls business and South African film industry but also give a new
perspective to the world of cinema venues business and film industry.

What will be the working method? :

A survey will take place among the Cape Town mass people. Sample of this
survey will include people from all walks of life. This is a qualitative research.
Therefore, data collection will include series of interviewing and questionings.
I will be using both structured and semi structured interview techniques.

Aim of this Research

 5

Find the reasons why cinema hall business is declining and give meaningful
solutions that will sustain improved film makings, art & culture and improve
cinema venues business.

Chapter -1
History of Cinema Venues :
Cinema is largely a nineteenth- century technology, relying on the chemistry
of photography, is itself now over 100+ years old, in the last century.[1]
The history of film began in the late 1880s with the invention of the first
movie camera. Motion pictures were initially displayed at exhibitions as a
carnival novelty and were developed as one of the most important tools of
communication and mass media. Most films before 1930 were silent. Motion
picture films have substantially affected the arts, technology and politics.
The movie theatre was considered a cheaper and simpler way to entertain the
masses. Film became the most popular visual art form since the late Victorian
age. It became simple because of the fact that before the cinema, people had
to travel long distance to see dramas to entertain themselves. All of that
changed after the invention of cinema. During the first decade of the cinema’s
existence, inventors worked to improve the machines for making and showing
films.

……………………………………………….

1. Edward Buscome,Cinema Today,Pb(2003) Phaidon Press Limited, London

N19PF,UK. Pag-488.
 6

Early Innovation of Film business :

The first eleven years (1895-1906) of motion picture shows cinema moving
from a novelty to an established large scale entertainment industry. The first
commercial exhibition of film took place on April 14, 1894 at Edison’s
Kinetoscopeep – show parlor.[1] The Nickelodeon was the first successful
permanent theater showing films. It was opened in Pittsburgh in 1905. In
1907 there were about 4,000 small Nickelodeon cinemas in the United States.
The films were shown with the accompaniment of music provided by a
pianist, though there could be more musicians.
After start of the film industry in the United States, it spread out in the other
parts of the world like GB, France, Germany, and in Italy.

.....................................................

1. http://www.sahistory.org.za (A History of the South African Film

Industry timeline 1895-2003.)

 7

Modern film industry.

In 1895 the Lumiere brothers held the first exhibitions of films to paying
customers in the Indian Room at the Grand Café in Paris. Audiences
unprepared for the illusion of cinema, fled in panic as the screen was slowly
filled by a train trundling into a station. Arrival of the Train in the Ciotat
Station was baldly titled, but its locomotive was pulling behind it the infant
film industry.[1]
The major business centers of the film marking are in the United States, India
and in Hong Kong. In Europe France, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom and
Germany are the countries that lead movie production.

Current situation of the Cinema Venues around the world

At this moment the film & cinema venues business condition of the world is
collapsing. Every one is worried. They try to find out what is the problem? In
the Arabian countries and most of the third world countries, film & cinema
industry is in jeopardy. In Bangladesh, a South Asian third world country,
after gaining it’s independence in 1971[2] had 1400 cinema venues and had no
DVD shops, but now only 750 cinema venues are struggling to stay afloat and
in the meantime nearly 2500 DVD shops have opened in the country. Most of
the audience say the future cinema venues business will be vanish. On the
other hand DVD shop will be everywhere.
……………………………..

1. Robyn Karney(Editor).Joel W.Finler(Ass.Edit) Cinema Year by Year 1894-

2004 ,Pb(2004),Amber Books Limited,London N1 9PF,UK.
pag- 78.

2. History of Bangaldesh.
 8

Chapter-2

South African cinema venues business:

Before Africa stared to make films, Europeans had shot films about the
African continent. Most of the Africans saw in those films of another by
themselves. African Landscapes were used as settings. Those films were
based on European stories.[1]
South Africa was certainly one of the first countries in the world that started
making motion pictures. Lingards Waxworks in Durban, who exhibited a
number of mechanical novelties of the penny-in-the-slot variety, first showed
them in August 1895. One of these was a Kinetophone.[2]

When compared with the rest of the African continent it can be said South
African cinema venues business or industry is very large. However, it is small
compare to the rest of the world’s prospective even though it is expanding.
There are roughly about 700 Cinema venues or hall in South Africa. South
African cinema venues business started as early as the start of the 20th century.
Most of the cinema venues were built in the last 100 years. Ironically, 21th
century has not been good for cinema venues business in South Africa. The
South African audience are not going to the cinema halls as much as they used
to. For this reason business is dying day by day. New business man or
entrepreneurs are less interested in risk takings. Other sector of South Africa’s
entertainment industry is growing and cinema venues are just out performed.
In addition, South African government do not provide subsidies in this sector
and are reluctant to support. It is important to highlight that cinema halls can
create lot of jobs for unemployed which is a serious issue in this country.

…………………………………………

1. Josef Gugler, African Film(Re- Imagining a Continent) ,Pb(2003),James

CurreyLtd,OXford OX2 OBS. Pag-xv.

2. http://www.sahistory.org.za (A History of the South African Film

Industry timeline 1895-2003.)

 9

Chapter - 3
Cape Town cinema venues business:

Within Cape Town City, cinema venues or hall business is collapsing now.
17 cinema hall are actively operating out of the original 25. There are 3
major stake holders in cape town film business.[ 1] These are: Starkenikor, Nu
metro, and Cinema Nova. Apart from these 3 major industry, there are few
privately own cinema venues. Privately owned cinema venues can not
compete with the might of the mega film showing venues like starkenikor.
Therefore privately owned Cape Town Cinema hall industry is going through
lots of challenges.[2] One of the big problem is its audience and their need.
Films that are shown are sometimes are not up to the viewers interest or
standard . They have lots of objection about the Cape Town cinema venues as
well. It becomes very hard for small venues to survive and compete with
them. Starkenikor and Numetro are playing what we call in economics
monopolistic competition. They decide on price factors. It is not helping the
common people. Film watching in a venue became much more expensive.
Therefore, this business industry is dying day by day. Entrepreneurs are not
interested in investing money to open new cinema venues in Cape Town.

………………………………………….

1. Data from interview.

2. Khulekani Magubane,Uncertain future for independent Cape Town cinema

venue, 04 January 2013.(Journal)
 10

Top cinemas in Cape Town

It's movie time in Cape Town and surrounds

Movies are considered an important art form and a source of popular

entertainment in Cape Town. They've made us laugh and cry but their visual
element evokes a universal understanding. Cape Town is abundant with art
house classics, rip roaring comedies and the latest action adventure movies
shown at a broad spectrum of venues from exclusive to classic. It has selected
the cream of the big screen in Cape Town and Surrounds.

1. The Labia
Opened in 1949 by Princess Labia the cinema is the oldest independent art-
repertory cinema in the country and appeals to those who enjoy charm and
old-world ambience. Visitors are treated to four screens.[1]
68 Orange Street | Gardens / Lifestyle on Kloof | Kloof Street | Cape Town |
+27 (0)21 424 5927

2. Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa

Whisk your partner away for a specially created movie menu at the Azure
restaurant followed by an intimate viewing of a film at the hotels private 16-
seater cinema. Lists of movies including classics, comedy, adventure and
drama are scheduled for breakfast, lunch and dinner with state-of-the-art
Dolby surround sound and a lavish assortment of movie goodies.
Victoria Road | Camps Bay | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 437 9000

3. Pepper Club Luxury Hotel and Spa

Centrally located Pepper Club offers private monthly themed movie and
dinner evenings including a Midweek Movie and Dinner Night on the last
Wednesday and Thursday of each month which is perfect for a midweek date.
All guests dining at Salt & Pepper on Friday and Saturday Evenings may see a
movie at no extra cost.
Corner of Loop & Pepper Street | +27 (0)21 812 8839
 11

4. The Pink Flamingo at the Grand Daddy Hotel

Set in the world's only rooftop trailer park hotel this exclusive 35-seater
cinema showcases contemporary classics screening films twice a week on
Sunday and Thursday nights at 19:30 with an intermission during each
screening. Guests from private parties receive sweets and refreshments and
the Sky Bar serves drinks before and after the show.
38 Long Street | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 424 7247

5. Cinema Privet
Get pampered like a VIP at this first class cinematic haven by sinking into
wider-than-average seats with the family whilst you watch the latest
blockbuster movies. Alternatively head to nearby state-of-the-art Nu Metro for
screenings of all the newest releases.
Canal Walk | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 555 2510

6. Cinema Nouveau
Specialising in foreign and art movies, Cinema Nouveau's Cavendish Square
Mall theatres are often packed. Expect some main stream movies but popular
art movies can show for anything up to a year.
Lower Level | Cavendish Square | Cape Town | +27 (0)86 130 0444 / V&A
Waterfront Lower Level | V&A Waterfront | +27 (0)86 1300 444

7. Ster Kinekor
National chain Ster Kinekor allows you to experience movie magic on the big
screen and offers Premier Nights so that those who want to get in on the
action are able to view the latest movies before they're released.
Tyger Valley Centre | Tyger Valley | +27 (0)21 914 1822

8. Obs Cafe
Iconic feature of the bohemian suburb of Observatory, Obs Cafe is a platform
for the theatre and arts industry. Doc Love is a thought provoking showcase of
independent documentary films showing each Monday.
115 Lower Main Road | Observatory | +27 (0)21 448 5555

9. Le Quartier Francais Hotel

Set in the romantic charm of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, sip local
 12

wine, savour a snack and enjoy your favourite movie on the comfortable back
row couch of the exclusive Screening Room.
16 Hugenot Road | Franschhoek | +27 (0)21 876 2151

10. 3 Arts Theatre

Located on Main Road and one of the oldest theatres in Cape Town this
cinema holds strong memories for locals who have watched classic and new
releases for many years. The venue is also now a concert hall that hosts
upcoming talent.
260 Main Road | Plumstead

11. Frankly, my deary

This weekly cinema is found in the city centre. They screen classic motion
pictures onto a blank background. Settle down to watch iconic movies and
cult favorites while sipping on cocktails. They screened Pulp Fiction on their
opening night which sets a good precedent of things to come.[2]
12 Spin Street | City Centre | 083 612 72 92

12. Numetro Cinemas

Grand West, 1 Vanguard Dve, Goodwood, Goodwood , Western Cape, South
Africa.
lydiapy@numetro.co.za/ 0215340255.

13. Longbeach Mall Centre Management

Buller Louw Rd, Sun Valley, Fish Hoek, Western Cape, South Africa.

diacobs@growthpoint.co.za/ 0217855955.

14. Nu Metro Cinemas

Canal Walk S cntr, Century Blvd, Century City, Milnerton, Western Cape, South Africa.
• 0861246362

15. KENILWORTH CENTRE

Loch Rd, Claremont, Claremont, Western Cape, South Africa.
0216743625@efg.co.za / 0216715054 .
 13

16. Tyger Valley Centre

Willie van Schoor Av, Bellville, Bellville, Gauteng, South Africa.
• 0219141822 /0219141318@efg.co.za

17. Movies @ Hemingways

476 BOULEVARD SQUARE, 1 RING RD, CENTURY CITY, MILNERTON, Western
Cape, South Africa.
• 0215552510

18. NEWWOOD FILM PRODUCTIONS

3 Sheffield St, Malibu Village, Blue Downs, Western Cape, South Africa.[ 3]
• 0219091970

……………………………………………………………………………………..

1. Khulekani Magubane,Uncertain future for independent Cape Town

cinema venue, 04 January 2013.(Journal)

2. Source: www.capetownmagazine.com

3. Data from interview.

 14

Top death cinema venues of Cape Town.

1. Bijou.(1981)
observatory , Lower main Road, Cape Town, South Africa.

2. Cine-400 CC.( 1996)

63 College Rd, Rylands, Rylands Est. Cape Town, Western Cape ,
South Africa.

3. Kismet Cinema. (2000)

Station Road, Athlone, Cape town, Western Cape , South Africa. [1]

Non-mainstream cinema houses are facing hard times, with cinema chain
Ster-Kinekor’s Cinema Nouveau theatre at Cavendish Square in Cape Town
to close its doors on January 17, 2013 leaving only the Cinema Nouveau at the
V&A Waterfront. [2]

……………………………………………….

1. Data from interview.

2. Khulekani Magubane,Uncertain future for independent Cape Town cinema venue,

04 January 2013.(Journal)
 15

Chapter -4

Death cinema venues:

Bijou,
observatory , Lower main Road, Cape Town, South Africa.

Observatory, located in the southern suburb of Cape Town, had a cinema

Venue called “ BI JOU”. It was shut down nearly about thirty years. when it
was first opened ( Early in the 1950s ) it was a very busy and crowded place.
It screened its last film in the year 1981. At present it is considered as a death
cinema venue.

Observatory is situated in one of the main part of Cape Town city. It is

opposite of University of Cape Town and The school of South African
motion picture medium and life performance (AFDA). The surroundings
include “The Bijou”, some craft and old book shops and lots of pubs, Café,
and restaurants apart from its Victorian style residential areas and lot of other
interesting shops in addition to the industries in this aria. Therefore,
community includes people of different interest. Majority in the community
are educated. They love art and culture , and they love film. A very interesting
finding is that most of the people in the community do not go the cinema
halls anymore to watch films. They collect new movie/ DVDs from nearest
DVD rental places.
 16

The Current Status of “ Bi-JOU” cinema venue

Bijou is no longer a cinema venue. It has been converted now into a tools
manufacturing factory. Some local people say within short time this once
popular cinema venue will be broken down to make rooms for new
commercial project.

Why “Bijou” is closed now?

In 1981 Bijou was caught on fire and destroyed. Everything was damaged
inside. It was unexpected. Therefore it was shut down.

Local people opinion :

Early in the 1950s Bijou was open as a cinema venue. Surrounding areas
were very busy and crowded for this cinema venues. People were coming to
every show, and it was house full most of the time. Morning, afternoon,
evening and night shows were all busy. Lots of small business like still
photography shop, sweet shop, grocery shop, bar, book shop, painting shop,
barber shop, take way shop were opened because Bijou attracted so much
people everyday here.

Most people complain about the venue because the owners did not renovate
the venue over the years. It was not modern and up to the standard as a venue.
People were also concerned about the night time security in the area which is
why it lost lot of revenues.

Land lord Opinion: ( he is not interested to disclose his name and present
address)

After bijou was burnt, partners were not interested anymore to keep this
cinema venue open. The cinema venues business was not bad that time. Bijou
was always presenting interesting films for audience. Problem came from the
management side as they did not cater money to renovate the place. In
addition, Bijou was totally damage by burnt. therefore, there was financial
loss. One partner died within short time and one partner already invest his
money in another business. It was a sad ending for Bijou. In the end the
 17

business was shut down due the financial crisis. The owner of the building
wanted new business and it moved on from there on.

***One of the Land lords say cinema business was going down. Every year
business had no profits only lose.
Wind has changed world wide. Cinema business are no longer in the hands of
independent owners. Corporate giants have taken over. They want to play
monopoly.
Therefore, we had to shut the business down.

One of the oldest worker (Mr. Abdulla):

Mr. Abdulla now he is 70 years old. He was the last film projection machine
operator of the Bijou. He told us, after burnt not only he all worker also lost
their job. It was very pain full for every one. Within a day they were jobless.
Every body felt big economical problem. Within a year lots of small business
of this areas shut down dew to the bijou. Their family also felt big
economical crisis.

Social effect :

Last 30 years local people watched lot of social effect after Bijou shut down.
New generation have no felling but old citizen of this have different opinion.
They have lots of emotional teach with Bijou.

Younger generation lose their golden time for close Bijou. Local family were
meet each other in front of bijou. They were make friend ship through to the
bijou. So socially big negative effect after close down Bijou in this aria.
crime ret: Local people opinion after close down Bijou, this aria crime ret is
incising. Every day after evening now surrounding aria so quite. No one want
to come out from the home for crime.

Economical effect :

Near about 25 people direct lose their job after close down the bijou. They
lose their earning source. within one year 50 small shop close down in this
aria. For this reason 4X50 =200 people lose their job with earning source.
Indirectly moor then 200+25=225x 5= 1100 people lose their economical and
social security.
 18

Economical point of view if one people were average earn R 5,000 per
month. Then total earn R 5,000x225= R 11,2 5,000 per month. After close
down the bijou R,11,25,000 per month South African economy also lose their
service.

South African Economical effect after close down Bijou:

If you watch very closely then you can find out big and deep economical
effect for long time south African economy after close down cinema venues
‘Bijou’.
We already discus near about 25 people direct lose their job after close down
the bijou. They lose their earning source. within one year 50 small shop close
down in this aria. For this reason 4X50 =200 people lose their job with
earning source. Indirectly moor then 200+25=225x 5= 1100 people lose their
economical and social security.
Economical point of view if one people were average earn R 5,000 per
month. Then total earn R 5,000x225= R 11,2 5,000 per month.
Per month:
After close down the bijou R,11,25,000 per month South African economy
also lose their service.
Per year:
12x 11,25000 = R 1,3 5,00,000 per year South African economy lose their
service.

Last 30 year :

30x 13500000 = R 40,5 0,00,000 last 30 year south African economy lose
their service only for Bijou close down.

Informational effect :

A cinema venues is not only the entertainment place. It is also a good

information center for audience. A movies always serve the lots of
information for the audience. A film can change the people mind , philosophy
and ideology. So when a cinema venues close down. The audience miss all of
them and information gaps make a knowledge less society. It is not for good
for society.
 19

Chapter -5

Cape Town public opinions about the topic:

Question paper
For academic research.
4th Year (Hon ours)
The South African school of motion picture medium and live performance(AFDA)
18, Scott Road, Observatory, Cape Town, RSA.

Topic :“Problems at the Cinema Venues in Cape Town in the recent years”

A. Your position or job : …………………………………………….

B. Your surname:…………………… First name : …………………………………..
C.Age : ………… Sex …………….. .Education :……………………………….
D.Address : ………………………………………………………………………………
cell phone: email :
Question are :

1.Remember last time when you went to cinema to see a film ?...........................
2,What kind of film do you love ?: romantic, /comedy, /action ,etc.
3.Why are you interest/ not interest in cinema anymore?..........................................
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
4. How do you consume film ?....
Why ?...................................................................................
5. What is your opinion about South African film ?
6.Do you think film can change your intellectuals life ? if no why ?who can change ?
7.Do you think film can change your cultural life ?
8.What is your opinion about ‘Bijou’ as a death cinema venues?
9.Do you want Bijou open again for audience ? why?
10.Do you think it will be economically success ?
11. What is your advice for it’s make success ?
12.Why a several number of cinema venues are now close down in Cape Town ? ( Your
opinion)
13. Do you think depend on foreign films is good for cinema venues business in Cape
Town?

End
 20

Cape Town public opinions :

The participants of this survey are local observatory of cape town public.
They are educated/ no educated. Most of them are student, service man,
factory worker, retired person . Man and woman both and aged 18-70. They
have experience with cinema venues and are from all races. (White/coloured
and black)

Q.01.
Question was : Can you remember last time when you went to cinema to
watch a film ?

Their opinion is
[25 Woman out of 50 m/w]

Present age Sex Answer[Last time]

18-25 F (12) 1day-1 month(48.00%)
18-25 F(9) 2 month- 6 month(36.00%)
26-70 F(4) 6 month-5 years. (16.00%)

***Observation:
48% New generation (observatory) of Cape town woman still love watch
film go to cinema venues than old generation.

[25man out of 50 m/w]

Present age Sex Answer[first time]

20-25 M(11) 1day- 1month (44.00%)
26-70 M(3) 1day-1month ( 12.00%)

20-25 M (7) 2month-1 year(28.00%)

26-70 M(4) 6month -7 year(16.00%)

***Observation:
44% New generation (observatory) of Cape town man still love watch film
go to cinema venues than old generation.
 21

Q- 02.

Question was : what kind of film do you want to watch? (Romantic/

Comedy/ Action ,etc )

Their opinion is :
[25 Woman out of 50 m/w]

Present age Sex Answer[Last time]

18-25 F (2) Comedy (8.00%)
18-25 F(13) Comedy+ Romantic+ Action (52.00%)
18-25 F(1) psychological thriller (4.00%)
18-25 F(1) Thriller+ Drama (4.00%)
18-25 F(1) Psychological Drama+ Fantasy (4.00%)
18-25 F(1) Action+ Animation + Drama (4.00%)
18-25 F(1) Animation + Fantasy (4.00%)
18-25 F(1) Fantasy + Science fiction + Thriller (4.00%)

26-70 F(1) Science Fiction. (4.00%)

26-70 F(2) Romantic+ Comedy (8.00%)
26-70 F(1) Drama (4.00%)

***Observation:
Woman of the Cape town city( observatory) are very interesting character,
they want to watch deferent kind of movie but 52% young generation(18-25)
woman love Romantic + Comedy+ Action films .
And 8% old woman(26-58)love Romantic films.

[25man out of 50 m/w]

Present age Sex Answer[first time]

20-25 M(14) Romantic+ Comedy + Action (56.00%)
20-25 M(1) Comedy+ Suspense + Arts film (4.00%)
20-25 M(1) Suspense + Thriller (4.00%)
20-25 M(1) Romantic + Comedy + Action+ Horror + Fantasy (4.00%)
20-25 M(1) History + Action (4.oo%)
 22

20-25 M(1) War movie (4.00%)

20-25 M(1) Romantic Comedy (4.00%)

26-70 M(2) Comedy ( 8.00%)

26-70 M (1) Action(4.00%)
26-70 M(1) Drama(4.00%)
26-70 M(1) Romantic+ Comedy + Action (4.00%)

***Observation:
Man of the Cape town city( observatory) are very interesting character, they
want to watch deferent kind of film but 56% young generation man love
Romantic +Comedy+ Action movies . but only 4% old generation man love
Romantic+ Comedy+ Action movies.

Q-03.

Question was : why are you interest/ not interest in cinema anymore ?

Their opinion is :
[25 woman out of 50m/w]
Present Age Sex Answer
18- 25 F (15) Interest (60.00%)

Because :
1. The more exhilarating experience that it offers [F-2]. (8.00%).
2. I like watching many new movies on the big screen[F-1].(4.00%).
3.I love and feel interest. [F-2] (8.00%).
4. It is a place where you can come together with friends and family
and enjoy film. [F-1] (4.00%).
5. It’s provides me with an escape from reality. [F-1] (4.00%).
6. I love the experience , big screen and cinematograph.[F-1](4.00%).
7. It’s my happy place. [F-1](4.00%).
8. Relaxing, fun and exciting . [F-1] (4.00%).
9. Nothing beats the grand felling of beats in cinema. [F-2](8.00%).
10. Quality of the movie is should the best. [F-1](4.00%).
11. I enjoy it. [F-1](4.00%).
12. It’s much more relaxed and you see people out. [F-1](4.00%).

*** Observation:
 23

60% Woman of observatory in Cape town city are very interesting

character, but their are interest watch deferent kind of films for deferent
reason .

Present Age Sex Answer

18- 25 F (6) Not Interest (24.00%)

Because :

1. It’s very expensive. [F-3] (12.00%)

2. It’s how, I treat myself [F-1] (4.00%)
3. I can watch films from my bed now.[F-1] (4.00%).
4. It’s a distraction entertainment.[F-1].(4.00%).

***Observation:
24% Woman are not interest watch films for deferent reason but 12.00%
young woman not interest for too expensive .

Present Age Sex Answer

26- 70 F (4) Not Interest (16.00%)

Because :

1. It’s very expensive. [F-1] (4.00%)

2. Unsafe [F-2] (8.00%)
3. Dirty, fixed times + shows restrict selective .[F-1] (4.00%).

***Observation:

16% Old woman of Cape town city are very interesting, their are not interest
watch films for deferent reason but 8.00% old woman not interest for unsafe
.

[25 man out of 50m/w]

Present Age Sex Answer
* 20- 25 M (14) Interest (56.00%)
 24

Because:
1. I like pure cinema experience with big screen. [M-5](20.00%)/
2. I love the experience of being in a cinema the sound [M-1](4.00%).
3. Learning new things. [M-1](4.00%).
4. It’s hard to recreates the experience. [M-1](4.00%).
5. Cell phones , Bad quality cinema venues. [M-1](4.00%).
6. I met office people and movies also .[M-1](4.00%)
7. I enjoy the formality of being in a cinema more engaging.
[M-1](4.00%)
8. It’s a nice day out. [M-1] (4.00%)
9. Offers escape from reality. [M-1](4.00%)
10. Great generic place for a date. [M-1] (4.00%)

***Observation:

*56% Man of the Cape town city are very interesting , their are interest
watch films for deferent reason but 20.00% young man interest for they like
pure cinema experience with big screen.

Present Age Sex Answer

20- 25 M (2) Not Interest (8.00%)

Because :

1. It’s very expensive. [M-1] (4.00%)

2. Can download anything[M-1](4.00%)

***Observation:

8% Man of Cape town city are very interesting character, there are not
interest watch movies for deferent reason.

Present Age Sex Answer

26- 70 M (4) Interest (16.00%)

Because :
 25

1. I love the magic of the big screen. [M-2] (8.00%)

2. It give me more emotional experience. [M-1] (4.00%)
3. I feel happy there .[M-1] (4.00%).

***Observation:

16% Old man of the Cape town city are very interesting, their are interest
watch films for deferent reason but 8.00 % love the magic of the big screen.

Present Age Sex Answer

26- 70 M (5) Not Interest (20.00%)

Because :

1. It’s very expensive. [M-1] (4.00%)

2. An no longer into film [M-2] (8.00%)
3. for one small kids .[M-1] (4.00%).
4. Family responsibility [M-1](4.00%)

*** Observation:

20%Old Man of Cape town city are very interesting , their are not interest
watch films for deferent reason but 8.00 % an no longer into film.

Q-04.

Question was : How do you consume film ?

Their opinion is :

[25 woman out of 50m/w]

Present Age
18- 25 [Woman]
1. DVD, Online, TV, Cinema [F-4] Because: I enjoy all forms. (16.00%)
2. DVD [ F-2] B: It is much more comfortable then going out. (8.00%).
 26

3. Download/Cinema [F-2] B: Don’t feel like going to get a movie from

DVD store. (8.00%)
4.DVD/Cinema(occasionally) [F-3]B: Time and money . (12.00%)
5.Cinema[F-4] B : It‘s a better visual experience. (16.00%)
6. Internet [F-3] B: It’s affordable, convenient. (12.00%)
7. T.V screen [F-3] B: Most accessible. (12.00%)

*** Observation:

Young woman of the Cape town city( observatory) are very interesting ,
they have deferent opinion about consume film but 16.00% are interest
watch movies forms DVD, Online, TV and Cinema hall.

Present Age
26-70.[Woman]
1. DVD [F-2] Because: More affordable. (8.00%)

2. T.V. [ F-2] B: It is much more relaxing and comfortable then going out.
(8.00%).

***Observation:

Old woman of Cape town city( observatory) are very interesting character,
they have deferent opinion about consume film but 8.00% are interest
watch movies forms DVD and TV.

[25 man out of 50m/w]

Present Age
20- 25 [man]

1. DVD, Online, TV, Cinema [M-2] Because: I enjoy all forms. (8.00%)
2. DVD [ M-8] B: It is much more cheaper and comfortable then going out.
(32.00%).
3. Download [M-3] B: Don’t feel like going to get a movie from
DVD store. (12.00%)
4.Cinema[M-1] B : It‘s a better visual experience. (4.00%)
 27

5.Internet and T.V.[M-1] B:It’s affordable, convenient. (4.00%)

6. T.V screen [M-1] B: Most accessible. (4.00%)

***Observation:
Young man of Cape town city(observatory) are very interesting, they have
deferent opinion about consume film but 32.00% are interest watch
movies forms DVD.

Present Age
26-70.[man]
1. DVD .T.V. and Internet [M-3] Because: More affordable- do my own
time . (12.00%)

2. DVD [ M-1] B: It is much more cheap and convenient . (4.00%)

3. At home[M-2] B: To watch at home as well as. (8.00%).

4. Cinema And DVD.[M-1] B: Cinema for big screen and DVD for cheap.
(4.00%)
5. Cinema [M-1] B: s a better visual experience. (4.00%)

***Observation:

Old man of Cape town city (observatory) are very interesting character, they
have deferent opinion about consume film but 12.00% are interest watch
movies forms DVD ,TV and Internet .

Q-05.

Question was : what is your opinion about South African movies ?

Their opinion is :

[25 woman out of 50m/w]

Present Age
18- 25 [Woman]
1.The stile need a lot of work.[F-1] (4.00%)
2. Quality of the South African is not the same as the international film. I
believe South African film is growing and improving.[F-2] (8.00%)
 28

3. Amusing but room for improvement.[F-1](4.00%)

4.It is getting better starting to get as good as Hollywood.[F-1](4.00%)
5. There are some beautiful short film. [F-1](4.00%)
6. They are not recognized. [F-3](12.00%)
7.They could improve.[F-3](12.00%)
8.I think we are really picking up in the film industry and soon we’ll reach
international standard.[F-1](4.00%)
9. Some South African movies are nice and a person can learn many things.
10. It is not on the level of Europe and Hollywood but we are slowly getting
there.[F-1](4.00%)
11. I don’t have one.[F-1](4.00%)
12.Awesome for the Win.[F-1](4.00%)
13. Not enough variety.[F-1](4.00%)
14. They are good, nothing ,bad to really say.[F-1](4.00%)
15. Don’t know any. [F-1](4.00%)
16. Hollywood is on the top list in comparison to South African films. [F-
1](4.00%)

***Observation:
Young woman People of Cape town city are very interesting character, they
have deferent opinion about South Africans film but 12.00% could
improve. .

Present age
26-70.[Woman]
1.Getting better. [F-1](4.00%)
2.Boring. [F-1](4.00%)
3.Some are good but need development. [F-1](4.00%)
4.Doog. [F-1](4.00%)
Observation:
Old woman of the Cape town city are very interesting character, they have
deferent opinion about South Africans film .

[25 man out of 50m/w]

Present Age
20- 25 [man]
1.This is growing industry[M-1] (4.00%)
2.Enjoy on the rise.[M-1] (4.00%)
 29

3. I love South African stories. I love the characters that South African writers
create. [M-1](4.00%)
4.No good writers.[M-1](4.00%)
5. South African movies have industry ancepts but lack in term of research.
[M-1](4.00%)
6. Growing but fun behind tiep and type film. [M-1](4.00%)
7.Very interesting.[M-1](4.00%)
8.The quality of the movies is not that good and actor’s actresses.[M-
1](4.00%)
9. It’s growing more and more.[M-1](4.00%)
10. They are low budget and safe.[M-2](8.00%)
11. South African movies are not speak universal languages.[M-1](4.00%)
12.Good but not good as Hollywood movies.[M-3](12.00%)
13. No comment .[M-1](4.00%)

***Observation:
People of Cape town [ Young] are very interesting character, they have
deferent opinion about South Africans film but 12.00% say it is good but
not as good as Hollywood movies .

Present age
26-70.[man]
1.Good –they have made in roads on the international scene. . [M-1](4.00%)
2.It’s not a good quality . [M-3](12.00%)
3. I have no knowledge about SA film . [M-1](4.00%)
4.Need improvement. [M-1](4.00%)
5. I enjoy some SA movies. [M-1](4.00%)
6. We have potential to grow if more funding could be made annullable. [M-
1](4.00%).
7. Need to make film human issues. [M-1](4.00%).

***Observation:
People of Cape town [ Old man] are very interesting character, they have
deferent opinion about South Africans film but 12.00% are believe it is not
good quality .
 30

Q.06.
Question was :
Do you think film can change your intellectuals life ? if no why ?
who can change ?

[50 m/w out of 50m/w]

Present Age
18- 70 [educated]

75% Cape Town young generation say they do not believe film can change
his /her intellectuals life . but 53% old generation say they also do not believe
it.

Why ?

1. Present moment subject of the film is not intellectually high quality.

2. Story level is not good an up.
3. Story is not real life base.
4. Story is not ideological base.
5. Most film is violence and six life.

who can change ?(major)

1. philosopher can change. (80%)

2. write can change. (72%)
3. politician can change.(54%)
4. Film director can change. (39%)

*** 80 % people believe philosopher can change the intellectuals life not film
director.
 31

Q.07.
Question was :
Do you think film can change your cultural life ? if no who can change ?

[50 m/w out of 50m/w]

Present Age
18- 70 [educated]

52% Cape Town young generation say yes film can change his /her cultural
life . but 71% old generation say yes.

Q.08.
Question was:
What is your opinion about ‘Bijou’ as a death cinema venues?

[25 man out of 50m/w]

Present Age
20- 25 [man]

*** 65 % new generation public(Man and Woman) of observatory are not

feel any pain for death cinema venues` Bijou’.

Because :

1. They do not want to watch moves here.

2. Bijou is not running now.
3. They haven’t any experience with Bijou.
4. Bijou is old now.
5. Society of observatory is so change now.
6. Change their test of enjoyment.
7. They think Bijou will not fulfill their new generation demands.
8. They do not feel, any big problem bijou is close for culturally for next
generation observatory people.
 32

**35.00% new generation public( man and Woman) of observatory , they

feel very pain about death cinema venues `Bijou’.

Because:

1 They want to watch moves here.

2 Nearest cinema venues so far from observatory .
3 They miss night show.
4 They want to use `Bijou’, as a muss information center.
5 Last near about 30 years Bijou is not a cinema venues.
6 They want to enjoy watch film with Bijou.
7 They want to learn different cultural through the Bijou.

[25 man out of 50m/w]

Present Age
35- 70 [man and woman]

*** 85 % old generation public(Man and Woman) of observatory are feel

any pain for death cinema venues` Bijou’.

Because:

1. Really they miss their boyhood and yang age’s beautiful enjoyment
moment with Bijou.
2. Still they want to watch moves here.
3. Nearest cinema venues so far from observatory .
4.They miss night show.
5.They want to use `Bijou’, as a muss information center.
6.Last near about 30 years Bijou is not a cinema venues.
7.They want to enjoy again watch film with Bijou.
8.They want to learn different cultural through the Bijou.

*** 15 % old generation public(Man and Woman) of observatory are not feel
any pain for death cinema venues` Bijou’.

Because :
 33

1.They do not want to watch moves here.

2.Bijou is not running now
3.Bijou is old now.
4.Yes ,Society of observatory is so change now.
5.Change their test of enjoyment.
6.They think Bijou will not fulfill their new generation demands.
7.They do not feel, it is a big problem bijou is close for culturally for next
generation observatory people.

Q.09.

Question was: Do you want Bijou open again for audience ? why?

[50 out of 50m/w]

Present Age
18- 70 [man and woman]

*** 62 % local observatory people want Bijou again open for audience.

why ?

1. It will be less expensive then nearest waterfront cinema venues.

2. They will again watch moves night show.
3. A group of local people could be start their small business.
4. Economically it will be good effect for local society.
5. Bijou will create several number of job for local people.
6. Culturally it will be good effect for observatory local society.

***38 % local observatory people do not want Bijou again open for audience.

Why?

1. Now observatory is so quit for local people. They do not want crowed.
2. They believe if bijou is again open for audience , then crime will be
increase.
3. Present social invar mints will be change.
Q.10.
 34

Question was: Do you think it will be economically success ?

[50 out of 50 man/woman.]

age 18-70 years.

*** 74% are believe yes if Bijou open again for audience it will be
economically success.
And 26% are doing not believe it.

Q.11.

Question was :What is your advice for it’s make success?

[50 out of 50 man/woman.]

age 18-70 years.

Their advice(major) :

1. admission fees should be chip.( 80%)

2. Bijou will be newly decorate for audiences.(90%)
3. Film will be most of the audience chose .(75%)
4. Local security will be good un up. (80 %)
5. Good campaign for audience attraction.(70%)
6. Venues facility should be international label.(75%)

They want to open again Bijou for audience but they haven’t any idea now it
will success for business or not.

Q.12.

Question was:
Why a several number of cinema venues are now close down in Cape
Town ? ( Your opinion)

[50 out of 50m/w]

Present Age
 35

18- 70 [m/w]

Their opinion :

85% public express their opinion about the question. 5% public say they do
not feel any interest for express their opinion. 10% say they haven’t any idea
about the question.

85% public opinion:

1. May be those Cinema venues business man haven’t an up knowledge
about this business.
2. May be those Cinema venues are not perfect place for cinema business.

3. Cinema venues facility are not good an up for the audience .

4. Watching movies very costly here.

5. Publicity of the new film is very poor in Cape town city.

6. Major parts of the audience like black people are not economically sound
for watch movies at cinema venues.
7. Major part of audience want to watch African moves.
8. The government should stop the film piracy business.

9. Film stories are not good.

10. We need a South African voice in film and we should stop copying
Hollywood ,” Tell a south African story.”

11. Most of the movies are not interesting.

12. A part of audience haven’t an up time for watch movies at cinema venues.
13. Public, private and government sectors are not interest moor money invest
in this business.
 36

Q.13

Question was :

Do you think depend on foreign moves is good for cinema venues

business in Cape Town?

Their opinion is :

82 % public of Cape Town say no. It is not good for cinema venues business
in cape town depend on foreign moves. They should show quality of South
African film for audience.
 37

Conclusion :
I have come to the end of my research. It is time to reveal the quantitative
part of my research about mass peoples views and opinions. through my data
collections I came up wit the following figures.

48% woman, and 44% man of cape town want to watch moves go to cinema
venues(data from interview). 52% people of Cape Town want to watch
romantic, comedy and action moves. 60% woman feel unsafe particularly
night show. 52% are interest watch moves DVD, Online and T V. 75% public
do not believe film have any power for change his or her intellectuals life but
52% believe film can change his or her cultural life. 85% people believe when
a cinema venue closes down then it leaves lots of negative impacts in the
society both economically and culturally.

According to the research sample the People of Cape town do not only have
one crisis with cinemas, there are several other major problems or issues that
are challenging to the community here. It includes the fight with the corporate
giants versus the local cinema venues owners.

Data based on public recommendations

85% public opinion:

1. Start the Cinema venues business before the new investors should know
about this business perfectly.

2. City planners must allocate ideal places where Cinema venues will be
situated so that it is in the reachable distance for the locals and support the
local traders.

3. Every Cinema venues should have international level facility for the
audience .

4. Cost of the movies watching must be at a level that mass people can
access.

5. Audience want good communication and security .

 38

6. Publicity of the new film will be good for audience.

7. What kind of Major audience for your locality you should think about it.

8. Respect the audiences’ choice of the movies.

9. The government should stop the film piracy business.

10. South African Film maker should choose good stories for making films for
the audience.

11. Cape Town audience want to watch good quality and interesting local
South African films .

People believe those are the major problems of the Cape Town Cinema
venues industry business. So everyone should think about it.
 39

RECOMMANDATION

Cinema viewing is fascinating. It changes peoples ethics, morals , and

societal values. it is therefore necessary to reach the mass people via cinema.
If the corporate giants want to play monopoly and keep the entry price to the
cinema very high, surely mass population will not be able to view cinemas. In
the past, cinema venues were mostly owned by private people in independent
areas. Because of the crowd cinemas generate other business opens up in the
surrounding areas and it helps sustain the local economy. It empowers local
economy and create variety jobs. Wind has changed world wide. Cinema
business are no longer in the hands of independent owners. Corporate giants
have taken over. We do not find the cinema halls away from the mall.
Everything centers around the big malls which is also a part of the corporate
giant. Therefore, they can do anything with the types of films they will view
to the mass, and they do the price fixing. It is virtually impossible for a
medium size (4-6) family to go and entertain themselves to watch a film
because of the cost that associate with film viewing. In my recommendation,
independent owners of venues must be given subsidies by the government in
creating a cinema venues. However, they must be monitored also to see what
type of films they are showing. Government must do the role play to
encourage showing good motion pictures that reflects upon societal values and
both commercial at the same time. In this way, small businesses in the
surrounding areas will be benefited. More entrepreneurs will generate in the
areas to open up new business and sustain the economic growth.
 40

Reference:
A.
Books:
• Geoffrey Nowell-Smith(Editer),The Oxford History of World
Cinema,Pb(1996),Oxford University Press,Oxford New York.
• Robyn Karney(Editor).Joel W.Finler(Ass.Edit) Cinema Year by Year
1894-2004 ,Pb(2004),Amber Books Limited,London N1 9PF,UK.
• Edward Buscome,Cinema Today,Pb(2003) Phaidon Press Limited,
London N19PF,UK.
• Manthia Diawara, African Film-New forms of aesthetics and
politics,Pb(2009),Prestel Publishing,New York,NY10003.
• Josef Gugler, African Film(Re- Imagining a Continent)
,Pb(2003),James CurreyLtd,OXford OX2 OBS.

B.

News paper.

1. US Travel and July 2007.

2. UK Telegraph 2004,2005.
3 UK Trends and Spends Survey 2003.2004.2005.
4. Sunday Times Top Brands Survey 2005.
5. BBC’s “ Holiday” Programme.
6. US Travel & Leisure Magazine 2007.
7. -Travel and Leisure Magazine.
8. Newsweek.
and
9. expedia.co.uk, UK July 2006

C.
Magazine:
• Joanna Sterkowicz(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol23-Sep2011.
• Angela van Schalkwyk(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol22-Nov/Dec2010.
• Angela van Schalkwyk(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol23-Jan2011.
• Angela van Schalkwyk(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol20-Aug2008.
• Joanna Sterkowicz(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol23-April2011.
 41

• Joanna Sterkowicz(Editer),ScreenAfrica,Vol23-Oct 2011.

• Mercedes Westbrook( Editer),South Africa, Vo4 issue 1 2006.
• Isla Haddow (Editer),the filmmakers guide to south Africa,2008.
• Keri Lancellas (Editer),Cape film Commission,2010.

D.
Enternet:
• History of South African cinema venues.

E.

*Interview:
Interview the Cape Town People: 50 man an woman (25 man and 25
Woman we take interview for the Topic.

J.

1. Khulekani Magubane,Uncertain future for independent Cape Town

cinema venue, 04 January 2013.(Journal)
 42

Thanks for all.

• Thanks and thanks a lot for my supervisor Mr. Leslie Lendis Sir. He
always give me time, advice and proper guidelines for complete this
research. I will never forget it.
• Thanks for all my teachers, Staffs, who gave me interviews, all my
friends. Really they always helped me for complete my research.
Thanks again.
• May Allah help you rest all of your life .

The End