Movieland Update
This is not directly Hills and Heights related but I am sure I am not the only one interested in some more details on the movie theater that is opening up. This was posted on the “Why Richmond Why?!?” section of Richmond.com. I can’t wait for the theater to open.
What’s the deal with the new Movieland theater? When does it open and what’s the big deal.
– CathyIn my opinion, the big deal is that there hasn’t been a first-run theater within the city limits in over a decade. Remember Willow Lawn and its sad two-theater operation? It’s slated to open on February 27 with 17 screens. But I spoke to Lindsay Grant, who’s helping with the launch of Movieland, to get more details:
City-dwellers have been waiting for a move theater, and Bow Tie is delivering a state-of-the-art theater in a restored historic property that will be unlike any theater in the region. For example, no commercials (ever!), wine and beer will be served, no arcade games, event rooms available, digital and 3-D projection and more.
Bow Tie Cinemas has been in business for more than 100 years as a family-owned and operated business. They got their start with street side nickelodeons and ventured in to the cinema business during the 1930s—commonly known as “the golden age of Hollywood”. Because their history dates back to this time period they focus on returning style and elegance to the movie-going experience.
Wow, that’s cool! I’ve been very curious myself; thanks for checking into it.
In these hard economic times this is quite the miracle. These people are taking a risk. I hope that Richmond realizes what a great place this could become and will support it.
I have talked to a number of people who plan to attend opening night.
“returning style and elegance to the movie-going experience”
I hope this means they’ll show some decent movies. Westhampton is the only theater in town that doesn’t play crappy films.
Preview here: http://www.richmondbizsense.com/2009/02/13/sneak-preview-movieland/ not much info (I haven’t looked at the video yet) but wanted to pass it along.
More photos here: http://www.lestercat.net/blog/2009/02/12/photos-from-movieland/
I am very glad about the coming of Movieland. It is about time! Is everyone dressing up for “opening night”? But note that the Westhampton does play ‘first run’ films and is in the city. Their films are most often great indie films that don’t play anywhere else!