Bilgesu Sisman, Cleveland Cinematheque Director: Most Interesting People 2026

Why She’s Interesting: Bilgesu Sisman’s path from a philosophy scholar in Istanbul to a film programmer in Cleveland might seem unlikely, until you hear her share her insights on cinema. In 2024, she succeeded Cleveland Cinematheque co-founder John Ewing, who directed the alternative and repertory film theater at the Cleveland Institute of Art for nearly four decades. As the new director, Sisman blends scholarship and storytelling to keep one of the city’s most revered film institutions thriving.  

From Plato to Projectors: After obtaining a master’s degree in philosophy in her native Turkey, Sisman came to the U.S. to complete her doctorate degree at DePaul University in Chicago. She specialized in political philosophy, writing her dissertation about “state violence over dead bodies as a technique of modern political power.” While in academia, she taught classes on philosophy and film. “I realized that those were my favorite classes to teach.” 

A New Wave of Programming: “One of my main goals coming into the role was to bring in younger people to the Cinematheque. Looking at the numbers, I’ve been able to fulfill that goal, which makes me really happy and proud.” Still, she honors the theater’s loyal base. She estimates about 80% of the films she’s showing would also be what Ewing would select if he was still in the role. For the other 20%, she’s been programming more genre pieces and non-exclusive films.  

Making Cleveland Home: Sisman moved to Cleveland Heights with her husband and their two cats. She enjoys the short commute from her home to CIA, especially since she doesn’t drive a car and uses public transportation and a bike to get around. “I’m a homebody at the end of the day. I enjoy staying at home and reading a book with the cats.” 

Meet the rest of the 2026 class of Most Interesting People >>

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