While being housebound, there is one activity that I miss the most, going to the movies. While I can easily stream a film or watch a DVD in the comfort of my room, there is no substitute for experiencing it on the big screen. And yes, there are more important things to worry about with the virus going around, but smaller independent theaters will be greatly affected. Unlike other businesses, smaller theaters have difficulty adapting to this changing market. Bigger chains can probably take more of the hit, but niche and independent theaters cannot.
I can still remember in 2008 when the Robinson Film Center opened in my hometown of Shreveport, Louisiana. Granted I was a bit too young to see most of the movies; my dad would take me to the ones that were more suited for me. As a result, the theater struck a chord with me and installed a passion for film. I would not be pursuing my graduate degree or even a career without the programming and summer film classes offered by the Robinson Film Center. Whenever I visit back home, it feels like I am seeing an old friend as soon as I walk through its door.
During my time in undergrad, I would drive as far as an hour and a half to Nashville for the Belcourt to see a movie. I remember seeing Evil Dead II, Akira, the Suspiria remake, and attending a horror writing class at the facility. Many people might not agree with me on the cost of the drive, but every mile was worth it in my opinion. I did not mind waking up earlier and making that drive to Nashville. I would not trade those experiences for the world.
Since moving to Atlanta, I fell in love with the Plaza Theatre. The Plaza, which opened in 1939, has remained open to the present. It remains a cultural anchor to the city and is beloved by many, including myself. Part of my weekend routine was going to the Plaza to see a new film: Colour out of Space, Doctor Sleep, or the director’s cut of Midsommar. It soon became a common occurrence to attend the weekly production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show by the local shadow cast. Even though I have known the Plaza for a few months, it remains close to my heart.
With the virus changing the current landscape, it is important to support not only affected businesses but the arts as well. Some people may not agree that businesses that charge up to fourteen dollars to see a moving picture may not be worth it, the idea of what cinemas stand is worth it. Independent theaters serve as centers of art and dialogue for a community. Not everyone may want to see a cosmic horror film starring Nicholas Cage or a dark comedy where two girls plan on killing one of their fathers, it allows the community to be exposed and have access to films that the larger complexes might not show. So please, do not forget about the arts in these times of trouble and please provide support to your local independent theater by donating money, buying gift passes to the future, or get a membership to it. Please support these venues in anyway you can. You cannot kill film, but do not let independent theaters become graveyards in the wake.