Will the Iconic Cinerama Dome Ever Reopen? Supporters Fight to Save Hollywood Landmark!

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Ben Steinberg is working tirelessly to bring back his preferred movie venues, specifically Hollywood’s ArcLight Cinemas and the iconic Cinerama Dome.

Last month, Steinberg initiated a petition which garnered over 30,000 signatures. On Sunday, approximately 50 individuals appeared following Steinberg’s invitation to assemble at the Cinerama Dome for a collective photograph, demonstrating their backing for the reopening.

Owned by Pacific Theatres, the complex appears to have permanently closed following its shutdown during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although there were indications of renovation over time, it seems that any plans for reopening have been put on hold indefinitely, as reported by actor and filmmaker Steinberg who frequented the venue. “It was one of my favorite spots in the world,” he reminisces.

Steinberg stated, “It won’t reopen this year as I spoke directly with the property manager while on site. He had the keys and informed me that there are no plans for opening at the moment.” Steinberg has been actively advocating for his cause on social media since the cinemas closed down.

Larry Blum, an actor, remembers attending a performance of “Hair” at the theater back in 1979. Blum described the former cinema as being unsightly, or simply put, it has turned into an eyesore. When asked why he was present at the photo opportunity, Blum stated that the place should be recognized alongside iconic theaters like the Chinese Theater and the Pantages in Hollywood – both architectural gems that contribute to Los Angeles’ distinct charm.

The structure still has boards covering its windows, a stark contrast to how lively it was during typical weekend afternoons. Now, it’s mostly deserted, with just a handful of people enjoying their meals at the adjacent Veggie Grill, while the Wildbird eatery appears vacant.

Gunzi Merchant, a film enthusiast, stated, “We boast some fantastic movie theaters such as the Chinese and the Egyptian, but this one is special – it hails from an earlier time, the early 1960s. The interior is truly unique and you won’t find its match anywhere else.

Jessica Brown attended to express her backing for Steinberg’s goals. Having relocated to this region at the beginning of 2020, she watched Damien Chazelle’s “First Man” at the Cinerama Dome. She shared her sentiments by saying, “I used to reside in the North Bay area where a movie theater shut down and turned into a Dick’s Sporting Goods store. I don’t want something similar to happen here.

Despite Pacific Theatres closing its doors, ownership of the property remains with the parent company, Decurion Corporation, which is helmed by Christopher Forman. However, Decurion chose not to respond to comments regarding Steinberg’s campaign.

Steinberg claims that, based on conversations with employees at the complex, Decurion appears reluctant to either sell or reopen the theaters. However, he mentions there has been interest in the property from potential buyers. “I believe it’s extremely unjust towards the people of Los Angeles,” he states.

Since Decurion is privately owned, it isn’t compelled to sell or restart the complex. However, Steinberg is optimistic that film enthusiasts and filmmakers might generate enough buzz to bring about change.

In 2023, there were indications that the Cinerama Dome might reopen by 2025. It had been revealed earlier in 2021 that the renovated facility would be known as Cinerama Hollywood and an application for a liquor license was filed at that time. However, Steinberg claims, based on his sources, that the contracts for the renovation have expired.

Amidst the ongoing struggles of cinemas following the pandemic, us movie enthusiasts in Los Angeles cling onto the dream that the iconic Cinerama Dome and ArcLight theaters might rise again someday. In the interim, AMC theaters at The Grove, Burbank, and Century City have seized the spotlight for major screenings and premieres. Meanwhile, independent films grapple with a tough market. Whether the enigmatic Decurion Corp. will be swayed by Steinberg’s efforts remains to be seen.

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2025-04-14 01:16