Skip to content

Movie magic: Behind the scenes at the Philadelphia Film Society

The PFS grand reopening is a hub for community and cinema.
Film projectionist Bob Strohm loads the 35mm film of "Eraserhead" by David Lynch at the Film Society Center.Read morePhotography by Jessica Griffin

There’s just something romantic about going to the movies. Projectionists thread reels. Concession workers scoop popcorn. Guests gather under the glow of the lobby lights.

Currently, the Philadelphia Film Society is preparing for its biggest week of the year: the Philadelphia Film Festival, running Oct. 16–26. The festival brings 10 days of premieres, conversations, and late-night audiences.

But you don’t have to be a festivalgoer to enjoy a night at the cinema. The Film Society operates nine screens in Center City — at Film Society East, Film Society Bourse, and the recently reopened Film Society Center at 1412 Chestnut St. — providing ample opportunities to experience movie magic.