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The end of an era: Westwood Village’s Bruin Theatre and Fox Village Theatre screen their last films
A nostalgic farewell to historic cinemas
In the heart of Los Angeles, two iconic cinemas, the Bruin Theatre and the Fox Village Theatre, are set to screen their final films this Thursday. These historic venues, which have been a cornerstone of the Westwood Village moviegoing experience, will close their doors as Regency Theatres’ lease comes to an end. This marks the end of an era for these beloved cinemas, each with its own rich history and cultural significance.
The Bruin Theatre: A cinematic gem since 1937
Opened in 1937, the Bruin Theatre is a stunning example of streamline-moderne architecture. With its 670 seats, it has been a more intimate counterpart to the larger Fox Village Theatre across the street. The Bruin has hosted numerous movie premieres and played a significant role in Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.” For those interested in revisiting this cinematic landmark, you can watch the trailer for the film here.
Owen Solomon, a representative for the building’s owners, expressed gratitude towards the Golin Family and Regency Theatres for their 14-year relationship. “The owners are currently evaluating future opportunities for The Bruin,” Solomon stated, leaving a glimmer of hope for the theatre’s future.
The Fox Village Theatre: A new chapter begins
The Fox Village Theatre, which opened in 1931, is set to reopen at an unspecified date after being acquired by director Jason Reitman and a consortium of partners, including Christopher Nolan, Rian Johnson, Steven Spielberg, Chloe Zhao, and J.J. Abrams. This group of filmmakers plans to add a bar and restaurant and make use of their personal collections of prints and memorabilia. For a glimpse into the world of these filmmakers, check out the trailer for Tenet by Christopher Nolan.
The decline of Westwood’s moviegoing scene
Once the most popular moviegoing destination on the Westside of Los Angeles, Westwood has seen a significant decline in its number of theaters over the past decades. The Landmark Westwood on Broxton and the iPic on Wilshire are the last remaining venues in Westwood Village. Meanwhile, AMC’s nearby Century City 15 has become the most prominent exhibitor in the area.
Personal reflections: The magic of the silver screen
As someone who has spent countless evenings at the Bruin and Fox Village Theatres, this news feels like a personal loss. These cinemas were more than just places to watch movies; they were communal spaces where stories came to life, where laughter and tears were shared among strangers. The closing of these theaters is a poignant reminder of the ever-changing landscape of the film industry and the impact of digital streaming on traditional moviegoing experiences.
The future of the Bruin Theatre
While the future of the Bruin Theatre remains uncertain, there is a sense of optimism that it will find a new purpose. Whether it continues as a cinema or transforms into something entirely different, its legacy will undoubtedly endure. The Bruin has been a witness to countless stories, both on and off the screen, and its walls hold memories that will not easily fade.
A reflective closure
As we bid farewell to the Bruin and Fox Village Theatres, we are reminded of the transient nature of cultural landmarks. These cinemas have been a part of Los Angeles’ history for nearly a century, and their closure marks the end of an era. However, the stories they have told and the memories they have created will live on in the hearts of moviegoers. The magic of the silver screen may be shifting, but it will never truly disappear.
