A century of stories: The Classic’s cinematic legacy

It’s no secret that the Classic is steeped in history, with a legacy that stretches back over 100 years.

‘It’s pretty cool to think that the Classic is Victoria’s longest continuously running cinema,’ says Benji. ‘It first opened as a single-screen cinema in 1911, but it’s had many different iterations over the years.’

And that’s putting it mildly. The Classic was a Yiddish theatre – and even an ice-skating rink – before coming back full circle as the 10-screen complex it is today.

The Classic's main transformation began 25 years ago when Benji’s parents, Eddie and Lindy Tamir, took over the closed-down cinema.

‘It was a bold move for my dad, who had no experience running cinemas,’ Benji shares. ‘But he’s always had a love for historical buildings. So, when he saw this old cinema on a side street in Elsternwick, he knew he had to take the risk.’

From there, it was a slow but sure climb to become the local icon it is today – complete with rooftop cinema and jazz room.

‘It’s been an incredible journey, that’s for sure,’ smiles Benji.

 

 

More than a movie: The place where culture comes alive

The Classic is a cinema, yes. But that’s not all it is.

‘Cinemas like the Classic bring so much life to their communities,’ Benji notes. ‘And the Classic is a very local cinema; there probably aren’t many like it left in suburban areas.’

The venue hosts events for the Holocaust Museum, festivals like the Jewish International Film Festival, the European Film Festival, as well as the Czech, Slovak and Polish film festivals.

‘On any given week, we’ve got multiple organisations coming in and booking with us,’ Benji says. ‘Before you know it, there are thousands of people coming in on a Saturday or Sunday night just to be together and experience a film.’

And that’s because, for the community in Elsternwick, the Classic is an extension of home.

‘You can walk right into our stylish foyer as the sun is setting and be greeted by the sea breeze, soft music and friendly smiles from our amazing staff,’ Benji shares. ‘Then, for the people who’ve been coming to us for a while, you can settle into the movie in your usual seat.

‘It’s really just a calm, beautiful vibe.’

 

 

The Classic experience: Handpicked films for an elevated night

In an age dominated by streaming, the Classic sets itself apart by offering carefully curated film experiences.

‘Cinemas curate content in a way that streaming services can’t,’ says Benji. ‘People trust that if we’re putting it on our screens, it’s worth their time.’

And let’s be honest – how often have you felt overwhelmed by the endless array of options on your chosen streaming platforms?

At the Classic, you’re presented with only the best options. Of today, and yesteryear.

‘We’ve got huge retrospective programs every single week where we focus on certain directors and genres throughout history,’ Benji explains. ‘People love to rediscover what was cool and interesting decades ago. It’s a way to experience hidden gems they wouldn’t find otherwise.’

How do they choose these movies? They ask the ultimate cinephiles… their staff!

 

 

Rooftop views, jazz nights and special guests: It’s cinema reimagined

The Classic isn’t just about movies – it’s about experiences. And its rooftop cinema is proof of that.

‘People come from far and wide for the rooftop,’ says Benji. ‘The views are amazing, and it offers a unique experience for moviegoers.’

And their jazz and comedy venue, Southside, adds yet another layer to the experience.

‘Southside is inspired by New York jazz clubs, and there’s really nothing like it nearby,’ Benji explains. ‘It’s become an intimate space for music and performances, giving locals even more reasons to visit.’

As if that wasn’t already enough, locals should always keep their eyes peeled for the Classic’s latest events. You never know who might pop in…

‘Last year, we had Emma Thompson stop by to host a Q&A for her film, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande,’ Benji says. ‘Tickets sold out for that one within 10 minutes!’

 

 

Rich histories: Honouring the past, embracing the new

Yes, Classic Cinemas is, well… classic. But it’s also all about combining modern comforts with its timeless roots.

‘We’re not just moving forward and forgetting the past,’ Benji emphasises. ‘But, in this day and age, we’re competing with amazing TVs and surround sound.’

That’s why the Classic’s comfort, design and technology are always a class above. And so are its food and drink.

‘It’s a cinema. So yes, we have popcorn and coke,’ Benji laughs. ‘But we also have local wines and beers, cheese platters, edamame and more. And we have beautiful spaces to enjoy them in.’

With that said, when it’s time to honour tradition, Classic Cinemas knows exactly how.

‘Our Cinema 1 has a really unique cinema behind it, the David Herman Theatre, which pays respect to the Yiddish theatre it once was,’ Benji explains. ‘Or, more accurately, the backstage area it once was.

‘We’ve got an exhibition down that corridor as well, which we worked on with Kadimah,’ Benji continues. ‘It’s a really special piece of history that we’ve honoured.’

 

 

Two minds are better than one: The Classic’s collaborations

A key to the Classic’s success is its partnerships with local businesses like Gary Peer.

‘Gary Peer has been a huge supporter since day one,’ Benji says. ‘They hold events here, they bring their clients here – and when they’re not hard at work, their agents come to enjoy a film with their families, as well.’

For us, this type of collaboration highlights the importance of local connections. And Benji agrees.

‘It’s 2 organisations working together to keep the community spirit alive,’ Benji states. ‘We help each other out, with both businesses doing our best to lift the other up.’

In short: it’s a true partnership.

 

 

Looking ahead: The future of the Classic – and of cinema

Despite the challenges facing the cinema industry, the Classic is optimistic about the future.

‘We’re seeing younger people coming back to the movies in droves, making it a cool, fun thing to do again,’ Benji shares. ‘People are hungry for experiences in general.’

And the recently launched Movie Club, offering free and VIP memberships, will help with that.

‘It’s all about giving value to our customers,’ Benji explains. ‘Members get discounted tickets, early access to events and sneak peeks into special screenings. It’s for the real die-hard fans of the Classic.’

But after spending so much time building the Classic into what it is today, Benji’s looking forward to enjoying the fruits of their labour. At least for a little while.

‘There’s always maintenance to keep on top of; new seats, new carpets, that sort of thing. But our main focus is always on the movies,’ he says.

‘And that’s the way it’s always going to be.’

 

 

Curious about this cornerstone of Elsternwick’s community? Explore Classic Cinemas’ website today.

And if you’d like to get to know some other members of our community? Head to The Peer Blog to say hello.