Westwood's historic Village Theater, located at 945 Broxton Ave., has been acquired by a coalition of 35 filmmakers led by Jason Reitman. The group aims to preserve the architectural gem and transform it into a cultural landmark dedicated to the cherished tradition of moviegoing. Known for its iconic features such as a soaring tower, neon marquee, and one of the largest screens in Los Angeles, the theater first opened its doors in 1931, making it 93 years old.
The coalition of filmmakers includes prominent names such as J.J. Abrams, Guillermo del Toro, Christopher Nolan, and many others. Their vision for the Village Theater involves showcasing artifacts from their personal collections, including props, wardrobe, and film prints. Plans are underway to introduce a restaurant, bar, and gallery while keeping the theater operational.
The Westside Purple Line extension is set to reach Westwood in 2027, coinciding with the location of the Olympic Village for the LA28 Olympic Games in the area. The filmmakers plan to celebrate the theater's centennial in 2031, emphasizing their commitment to preserving the legacy of cinema and fostering a sense of community.
Notable directors involved in the project expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative. Christopher Nolan highlighted the significance of cinemas as spaces for filmmakers and audiences to converge, while Denis Villeneuve emphasized the importance of the in-theater experience. Rian Johnson praised the trend of neighborhoods embracing theaters with unique programming and character, fostering a thriving moviegoing culture.
The Village Theater project is being overseen by Scott Gordon, a project developer specializing in urban mixed-use properties. Legal counsel for the new owners was provided by Glaser Weil. The collaboration of filmmakers represents a significant step towards revitalizing Westwood as a hub for cinematic art and community engagement.
