Before the screening at the New Beverly Cinema, Miles Villalon waited outside on a hot summer evening, eager to secure front-row seats for the Watergate-themed double feature of "All the President's Men" and "Dick." Despite battling through Los Angeles' rush-hour traffic, this level of commitment is routine for the 36-year-old Starbucks barista and aspiring filmmaker, who frequents independently owned theaters in and around the city, watching up to six movies a week. Villalon likened the experience to a spiritual one, contrasting it with mainstream theaters like AMC where the communal aspect is lacking.
While streaming and the pandemic have significantly altered cinema consumption, Villalon represents a growing demographic, particularly among younger individuals, who are revitalizing the independent theater scene in Los Angeles. The city's rich cinematic history continues to influence residents' entertainment preferences, leading to a resurgence of appreciation post-pandemic.
One of Los Angeles' unique features is its array of historic theaters, either saved from closure or revived by industry insiders in recent years. These theaters thrive due to their curated programs and tailored experiences, according to Kate Markham, the managing director at Art House Convergence. Quentin Tarantino kickstarted this trend by acquiring the New Beverly in 2007. The resurgence continued with Netflix's restoration of the Egyptian Theater, now a popular venue for premieres and marathons, such as the recent screening of four Paul Thomas Anderson films.
Further east, Vidiots, once a Santa Monica video store, reopened with a 271-seat theater, attracting a new wave of enthusiasts, including filmmaker and actor Mark Duplass. The appeal of independent theaters varies, from their diverse programming to enhanced food and drink options, all fostering a sense of community that larger chains struggle to replicate.
While the pandemic posed challenges for LA's movie theaters, survivors have found niches by offering unique experiences and eschewing mainstream trends like 4DX and dining services. The closure of iconic venues like the Cinerama Dome underscored the industry's resilience and ongoing evolution.
Despite the setbacks, the movie theater landscape in Los Angeles remains vibrant, supported by federal aid programs like the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant. This renaissance, rooted in the city's cultural heritage and cinematic legacy, serves as a testament to the enduring allure of the big screen. As independent theaters across the country thrive, Bryan Braunlich of the National Association of Theatre Owners Cinema Foundation highlights the industry's enduring appeal and the resurgence of cinema culture. The shared experiences and emotional connections fostered in movie theaters, like Vidiots, echo the sentiment that these spaces are more than just venues for entertainment—they are sanctuaries for communal storytelling and shared memories.
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