When Jason Reitman announced the purchase of the Fox Village Theatre in Westwood, it sparked interest from renowned directors like Steven Spielberg, Chloé Zhao, and Christopher Nolan. This move comes at a challenging time for the theatrical exhibition business, especially for independent theaters that have struggled in recent years.
Many smaller cities have lost their theaters, with closures such as Ridgewood, N.J.'s Warner and Denver's Esquire. Despite these challenges, some operators are determined to revive beloved movie houses with the support of successful filmmakers and local communities.
Efforts to restore classic movie palaces often require significant financial investments, either from celebrities or through community fundraising. In some cities, arthouse operations are being handed over to nonprofits to ensure their preservation.
Revitalization projects, like the one at the Plaza Theatre in Palm Springs, demonstrate a commitment to preserving historic theaters. With substantial donations and community support, these theaters are being transformed into state-of-the-art venues while maintaining their original charm.
Corporations, including streaming services like Netflix and companies like Rivian, are also playing a role in saving theaters. The involvement of these entities has led to the renovation and repurposing of theaters for various events beyond traditional film screenings.
Film festivals have become instrumental in keeping theaters active year-round, offering diverse programming and attracting audiences of all ages. The Seattle International Film Festival and the Milwaukee Film Festival are examples of organizations that have expanded their cinema footprint to support local theaters.
For many cities, preserving historic cinemas is not just about saving buildings but also about maintaining a sense of community and cultural heritage. The resurgence of theaters like the Rialto in Raleigh, N.C., highlights the importance of these spaces as gathering points for various events and activities.
As the industry navigates challenges and changes, the communal viewing experience offered by theaters remains a significant draw for audiences. The post-pandemic era has underscored the value of shared experiences, making the preservation of theaters even more crucial for communities.
