Having lived in Miami, New York City, and Los Angeles, I tend to assume independent movie theaters are all alike. Slightly snooty, filled with hipsters, and a little too cool for their own good. Not the case at Film Streams in Omaha, Nebraska.
Housed in a multiuse complex that’s also home to a hip pizza joint, two of the city’s most creative marketing shops, a combination bar and music venue that has been named one of the best bars in America, and, of course, an Urban Outfitters, this small movie house operates as a non-profit thanks to support from various foundations, individual donors, and volunteers. The vibe is decidedly unstuffy, from the warm lighting, to the casual lobby seating area. Friendly staffers man a concession stand offering beverages and snacks – candy and popcorn plus some healthier options – and a small, yet acceptable compliment of beer and wine. (Try a bottle of Nebraska’s own Lucky Bucket beer – very refreshing.)
Film Streams’ repertoire of movies varies from classic films (think Cary Grant and Katharine Hepburn’s 1940 film, “The Philadelphia Story”) to socially-relevant documentaries (like 2011’s “Tabloid” about a former beauty queen turned regular gossip fodder) and other artistically interesting films. The theater hosts various educational events, including local filmmaker showcases and guest lecturers, including Omaha’s own Alexander Payne, the brilliant mind behind About Schmidt (2002), Sideways (2004) and Election (1999). Mr. Payne sits on the Film Streams Board of Directors bringing the theater added credibility and attracting involvement from various influentials in the film world.
But the true dynamo behind Film Streams is Founder and Executive Director Rachel Jacobson who developed the idea as a senior in college. After moving to New York City to gain some real-world experience in the non-profit theater realm, she returned to her hometown to follow her passion. The theater’s hundreds of supporters have helped her realize her dream, making Film Streams a cultural anchor for the city of Omaha.
Tickets are $9 for general admission, $7 for seniors, students, teachers, and military, and $4.50 for Film Streams Members. Membership ranges from $35 for students and teachers, to $5,000 for the “Director” level which gets you a slew of perks that include a cinema tour and private party for you and your friends in upstairs event space.
Film Streams is located at 1340 Mike Fahey Street, Omaha, NE 68102. For more information, visit www.filmstreams.org or call 402.933.0259.