Founded by illustrator Russell Grant as Johannesburg’s original independent cinema, The Bioscope started life in Maboneng before relocating to the 44 Stanley retail and creative precinct, reopening there in July 2020 around its tenth anniversary. It screens arthouse, documentary and African film alongside themed nights covering French and Spanish-language cinema and the odd sing-along screening, giving Johannesburg a genuine alternative to the multiplex circuit. The cinema is also available for private hire, hosting everything from birthday parties to conferences and small screenings, and runs a gift shop selling movie memorabilia and merchandise designed by Grant himself. It’s a firm favourite with the city’s film buffs and a cosy, characterful spot for anything from a quiet matinee to a themed event night.