About Rialto

For over 100 years, a leading film theater.

Rialto has been a leading film theater in Amsterdam for over 100 years, with a clear mission: to showcase cinema that broadens your perspective. What began as an ambitious film theater with an idealistic vision has grown into a leading cultural meeting place in Amsterdam. Today, we have two inspiring and unique locations: Rialto De Pijp, and from 2026, Rialto Silo on Zeeburgereiland. Together, they form one family, deeply rooted in the city while also focused on the world.

At Rialto, film is about more than just watching. We screen carefully selected arthouse films with artistic value, social relevance, and international perspectives. Our program is quirky, engaged, and always driven by quality and relevance. We give a platform to voices that are less visible elsewhere – from established creators to new talents who embrace experimentation and innovation. With introductions, Q&As, debates, and special programs, we provide depth and context, ensuring that films continue to resonate long after the credits have rolled.

Rialto is also a place for meeting, reflection, and connection. Our cinemas are cultural anchors in their surroundings and accessible spaces where local residents, creators, and film lovers come together. We believe that film can contribute to a better understanding of each other and the world around us.

With an engaged audience, strong collaborations, and a growing reach – both in our theaters and online – we continue to build a future in which film inspires, challenges, and connects. Whether you are a seasoned film lover or curious and exploring: at Rialto, you are welcome.

The history of Rialto

Rialto has been a well-known name in Amsterdam for over a century. Since its opening on Ceintuurbaan, the film theater has distinguished itself as more than just a neighborhood cinema. In the first advertisement, the public was invited to view “only the very latest films” – an ambitious promise that set the tone for the future.

Founder Anton Pieter du Mée, a passionate film lover and social democrat, gave Rialto a distinct character from the very beginning. For him, film was more than entertainment: it should contribute to cultural development and social awareness. His international outlook and involvement with various organizations ensured that Rialto had a broad and progressive program early on.

Due to this vision, Rialto grew into a respected film theater. However, after World War II, it became increasingly difficult to stay afloat. In 1982, closure was even threatened. The unexpected salvation came from a group of young film enthusiasts from Amsterdam's youth culture. They opposed the dominant Hollywood offerings and sought to create space for independent, artistic cinema. Through the Stichting Amsterdams Filmhuis, they took residence in the historic building of Rialto – a partnership that continues to this day.

Under the leadership of director Raymond Walravens, who took office in 1989, Rialto further developed into a leading film theater. It became a place where films from Latin America, Asia, and Africa were also given a platform. In doing so, Rialto remained true to its original mission: to present cinema that surprises, deepens, and connects.