The Last Reel: Is this the end of independent movie theaters, or just the beginning of a revival?

Let me share a secret that’s close to my heart. For as long as I can remember, I’ve nurtured a cherished ritual: on days with no commitments, I’d slip away to my favorite arthouse theater to enjoy the latest independent film. This habit, rooted in my childhood memories of “The Incredible Mister Limpet” with Don Knotts, has always included a bucket of plain popcorn mixed with regular M&Ms—an unbeatable blend of sweet and salty I highly recommend.

My beloved theater, Chez Artiste, has been a Denver gem for 52 years. Though it’s small and the seats aren’t as plush as those in megaplexes, it’s been my sanctuary. It offers the perfect local charm, exceptional popcorn, and a carefully curated selection of indie films and timeless classics like Hitchcock and Chaplin.

But now, I’m facing an unexpected blow. As I drove into the theater’s parking lot, I saw the dreaded words on the marquee: “Our last day of operation will be 8/8/2024. It has been our pleasure to serve you!” Yes, my favorite theater is closing its doors for good.

I can’t say I’m entirely shocked. Like many, I’ve embraced the convenience of streaming services. A recent IndieWire survey revealed that 66% of American adults prefer platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, while a third watch movies in theaters only a few times a year and then stream them multiple times a week.

Is this the end for movie theaters, from giants like AMC to cherished spots like Chez Artiste? Many survived the COVID era but seeing that closing sign filled me with a profound sadness. The theater staff, taken by surprise and uncertain of their next steps, mirrored my own feelings.

After watching ‘Widow Cliquot,’ a film about the Veuve Clicquot champagne family, I was left wondering whether this theater’s closure signifies the end of an era or if there’s hope for a revival.

In conversations with fellow moviegoers, I heard mixed feelings. One person lamented that some films are meant for the big screen, but with the rise of streaming, movie-going has become a passion rather than a viable business.

Another held a more optimistic view: “Yes, movie houses, especially independent ones, are struggling now. But I believe that, just as vinyl records have made a comeback, the next generation may seek out movie theaters for a sense of community and connection.”

As we face the closing of such a treasured venue, let’s hold onto that hope. Perhaps, in the future, the magic of the movie-going experience will return with renewed vigor.