Nova is a movie theatre that opened at the end of January, 1997, in the center of Brussels. The theatre’s programming is dedicated to independently produced films and videos. The Nova Cinema is therefore not a commercial screen, rather a non-profit organization managed by a collective of individuals who work on a volunteer basis. In existence for over a decade now, Nova has become an important reference point for alternative, unconventional or simply different approaches to the audiovisual arts, in Belgium and abroad.
Nova offers monthly programming and events with films and program elements selected to complement chosen (and always changing) themes. Nova also organizes events that bring new, contemporary productions to the screen and offer a general platform for discussion. Nova’s program includes events such as ’The Open Screen’, ’Live Soundtracks", "TV Nova", "Midnight Screenings", "Ears Open" and "Cineketje"... as well as frequent special events organized in collaboration with external associations and groups. Nova screens short, medium and full length feature films, documentaries and experimental films that can’t find distribution in Belgium or are too "difficult" to screen in commercial cinemas.
Nova, with years of programming and curatorial work under its belt, has naturally evolved into a small distribution house. And after dedicating so much attention to different workshops and alternative production methods, it has also put into place its own production structure.
Above all, Nova is a social venue, a space that opens its doors to all disciplines. A variety of different creative forms of expression — visual art, photography, music, performance, etc. — is regularly featured in the spaces and bar located beneath the cinema. The bar-café welcomes diverse crowds and brings them together for meetings, debates, exhibits, installations, performances, workshops as well as events like the Microboutiek, DJs, concerts and parties.
It is difficult to pack everything about this "house of living cinema" and how it’s managed into a few paragraphs. So we invite you to please come and discover the Nova Cinema in person!