An inside look at 'The Bellevue' - named one of the world's greatest cinemas
The historic theater first opened in 1922 as a single-screen cinema and quickly became a staple in the community. Officials with Montclair Film say they are thrilled to see the theater receive international recognition.
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The Bellevue in Essex County was named one of the 100 best cinemas in the world by Time Out earlier this month. On Saturday, News 12 got an inside look at the historic theater.
The theater came in at No. 94, joining a list that includes iconic cinemas in cities like Paris, Los Angeles and Tokyo.
The historic theater first opened in 1922 as a single-screen cinema and quickly became a staple in the community. Officials with Montclair Film say they are thrilled to see the theater receive international recognition.
"The history and the design give you this old-fashioned feel,” said Jill Montague, marketing director for Montclair Film. “You feel like you’re stepping back in time a little. It’s not a huge multiplex, it really has that home feel, like it’s your movie theater."
RELATED: The Bellevue in Upper Montclair featured on ‘100 greatest cinemas’ list
The theater closed back in 2017 but reopened last fall after being taken over by the nonprofit Montclair Film organization.
Residents say the theater has long been an important part of the community. Man remember seeing their first movie, going on their first date, or even getting their first job at the theater.
The Bellevue is the only movie theater in the Garden State to make the global list.
