It began simply: to bring the movies back downtown

FilmScene is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the cultural vitality of the Iowa City area through the presentation and discussion of film as an art form. With programming that entertains, inspires, and educates, FilmScene works to build and connect the community through film.

Founded by Andy Brodie and Andrew Sherburne in the fall of 2011, FilmScene began with a simple goal: to bring movie magic back to downtown Iowa City. Early on, we focused on building and connecting with the Iowa City film community by producing exciting events like Alloy Orchestra and the Starlite Cinema open-air movie series.

Early on, FilmScene forged alliances with community leaders, cultural institutions, and film lovers, as well as creating a formal partnership with the University of Iowa’s Bijou Film Board.

In 2013, we endeavored to open a full-time cinema on the Pedestrian Mall in downtown Iowa City. Following a year-long fundraising effort, which included the Founders Circle initiative and a $90,000 IndieGoGo crowdfunding campaign. Thanks to the support of over 1,000 contributors, FilmScene which opened the doors to our “Scene 1 Cinema” on Thanksgiving weekend 2013.

With the consistent support of our community, FilmScene has exceeded our initial goals, and we have grown to screen over 300 feature films on two screen each year, with an annual attendance of over 35,000.

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, FilmScene is mission-driven and community-oriented. With that in mind, our focus is the operation  of a first-rate cinema for the Iowa City area that provides an enjoyable and rewarding moviegoing experience, and enhances the area’s artistic and cultural opportunities.