 The venue opened as State Theatre in 1925, and was known as Vista during 1941–1942 and 21st Avenue Theatre from 1942 to 1965.Cinema 21 is known for supporting independent and local filmmakers and has hosted many events and festivals during its long history.Mike Birbiglia, Mark Duplass, Todd Haynes, Miranda July, Richard Linklater, Russ Meyer, Steven Soderbergh, Gus Van Sant, and Wim Wenders have all discussed their projects at the theater.