Already before the war, film culture flourished in Chelm. In the historic edifice of the Magistrate’s Office on Lubelska Street, a sound cinema theater operated under various names, including “Versal,” “Ton” and “Scala.” On the other hand, at 1 Maja Street (now Adam Mickiewicz Street), screenings were held in a movie theater called “Corso” and later “Apollo.” There were also such cinemas as “Syrena”, “Polonia” and “Oaza”. Nowadays (in the former Magistrat), the traditions associated with the silver screen are continued by the Film Culture Center “Zorza Cinema”. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it invites not only to the novelties and hits of Hollywood cinema, but also offers a sophisticated journey through international, non-commercial, reportage cinema. And on top of that, it is moving and thought-provoking, while providing an opportunity to confront opinions within the framework of the “REWERS” Film Discussion Club. It is worth mentioning that everything takes place in the scenery of the edifice with its original facade, decorated with a mosaic, which was created in the early 1970s according to a design by Leszek Dziekoński.
Ciekawostka
There is a unique cafe in the “Zorza Cinema”. Its decor obviously refers to the film theme. Here and there hang photographs of such stars as: Harold Lloyd (in the famous scene with the clock) or Marilyn Monroe. Meanwhile, over the counter, bowler hats deceptively reminiscent of the one belonging to Charlie Chaplin were hung in a performer’s act.
