Like many countries in the world, the Netherlands has one of those companies that tries to go around buying up all the big theaters. There are probably 2 or 3 of these companies normally.. but the one that most people who visit may notice is Pathé. Pathé tends to buy a big theater and throw its name before the title.. like Pathé Tuschinski; which is a fine theater with a classic look. Then they toss in their mass market films, their advertising, and then i think the indivudual theater has some power to try and do different things within those parameters.

Fortunately two theaters in Amsterdam have remained staunchly independent and show films you won't find most places that challenge audiences to think and be informed about the world around them. They are Kriterion, located in the Plantage area of town, and The Movies, located near Westerpark. Both are highly recommended by this trippist, especially The Movies... that place is like stepping back in time when it comes to old-style theaters.

As for Calypso.. I guess its being renovated. Don't be surprised if it goes Pathé.