Calgary’s independent film community is growing concerned about the state of the downtown area’s cinemas following the impending closure of one and the possible sale of another.
Cineplex Odeon Eau Claire Market Cinemas in Eau Claire Market, soon to be demolished, is scheduled to close permanently at the end of May 5.
independent theatre, Globe Cinema 617, at 8th Avenue SW, is currently for sale, after originally being listed nearly four years ago.
“It causes me sleepless nights every night,” Brenda Lieberman told Global News.
Lieberman is the founder of Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) – Located in the globe.
“Our office is right here. My whole life is here. The atmosphere of our entire festival is created here,” she said, crying. “I don’t know what will happen with all these festivals and groups.”
The “classic movie house” or “art-house” cinema has existed for decades under various names and owners and is one of the last remaining theaters in the city and region. It has welcomed thousands of guests and hosted several independent film festivals over the years.
Lieberman is concerned about what the theater might look like if it is sold and no longer exists.
“Would someone try to buy it and turn it into a furniture store or a nightclub? And if that happens, where will we be as a community and as a city?” He asked the question.
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“If we rely only on suburban multiplexes, we lose the cultural footprint and vibrancy of our city.”
The Globe Cinema.
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Calgary-born and raised filmmaker Levi Holwell agreed.
He recently raised this topic in his documentary Magic hours. It explores the world of struggling movie houses in Alberta and showcases the “passionate defenders who sometimes revive, re-invent, and sometimes let go of vital community spaces.”
“Many of these theaters are really in crisis mode,” Holwell said.
“A lot of people have closed down and a lot of people are sounding the alarm and saying that if things don’t change, they will close down too.”
Levi Holwell in action Credit: Ethan Wornell.
Credit: Ethan Wornell
Holwell said it might be easy for people to see a theater up close and not be concerned, but he hopes they will understand its impact.
“I think you have to look at the bigger picture and it’s about trends and they’re all connected – like domino pieces,” he explained. “The indifference of letting go of a movie theater always leads to five more, 10 more.”
Therefore, citizens need to be cautious, he said.
“You’re going to lose a lot of these historic places that have been in the community for a while and have a special place.”
Levi Holwell Credit: Ethan Wornell.
Although there are no signs that the Globe will be closed anytime soon, Lieberman said now is the time for the city to speak up and find a way to preserve it and operate it as a community.
The Globe Cinema has been listed for sale for $2.4 million, but it is estimated that the total amount will increase significantly once the business is also purchased, and the necessary renovations are carried out.
Lieberman pointed out that this is money well spent, noting that the city’s film festivals continue to grow in popularity and attendance.
The building owner was not available for comment.
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