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In a significant move for Brazilian cultural preservation, Netflix has announced a BRL 5 million ($875,000) donation to the Brazilian Cinematheque as part of its architectural restoration, modernization and expansion initiative. The streaming giant becomes the first private company to join the revitalization effort of this historic institution since its reopening in 2022.
The funds will support the renovation of Sala Oscarito, the Cinematheque’s first screening room at its current headquarters, originally inaugurated in 1997. The modernization will bring the space up to current regulatory standards, upgrade technical infrastructure, and install an advanced climate control system, ensuring accessibility and state-of-the-art technology.
“It is a joy to contribute to the revitalization of such an important space for the history of Brazilian cinema,” said Elisabetta Zenatti, VP of content at Netflix Brazil. “Preserving audiovisual memory is essential to keeping Brazilian culture alive, ensuring that future generations recognize and appreciate the richness of our cinema. Netflix has always supported and will continue to support national cinema, investing in technology, infrastructure, and, above all, in stories that reflect the diversity and talent of our country.”
The partnership is being carried out through the Rouanet Law, marking the first time Netflix has utilized Brazil’s cultural incentive mechanism to support the arts and audiovisual sector locally.
Maria Dora Mourão, general director of the Brazilian Cinematheque, underscored the significance of this step: “The modernization of Sala Oscarito is an important step in the revitalization of the Brazilian Cinematheque. This effort not only helps preserve our audiovisual heritage but also reestablishes the Cinematheque as a reference space for film and audiovisual exhibition.”
The restoration project doesn’t end with Sala Oscarito. The broader plan includes masonry repairs, climate control improvements in research and technical areas, enhanced landscaping and increased accessibility across the Cinematheque’s facilities. An estimated BRL 30 million ($5.2 million) will be needed to complete the full restoration.
The initiative is part of Viva Cinemateca, a program launched in 2023 to restore significant collections like nitrate film reels and the Canal 100 archive. The project has also brought exhibitions and film showcases to over 20 cities in Brazil.
As public-private collaboration becomes increasingly essential for cultural preservation, the Cinematheque continues to seek corporate and individual donors. Contributions can also be made via the Friends of the Cinematheque Program.
This donation cements Netflix’s ongoing commitment to Brazilian storytelling and audiovisual heritage, reaffirming the platform’s role not just as a content provider, but also as a cultural patron.
