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Westwood’s historic Village Theater is now owned by a coalition of 35 filmmakers led by Jason Reitman.
Alex J. Berliner/ABImages
Westwood’s historic Village Theater is now owned by a coalition of 35 filmmakers led by Jason Reitman, the group announced Wednesday.
The group’s mission “is to preserve the architectural gem and create a cultural landmark dedicated to the beloved experience of going to the movies,” according to a statement. The theater, located at 945 Broxton Ave., is “known for its soaring tower, neon marquee and one of the largest screens in Los Angeles.” Inaugurated in 1931, it is 93 years old.
The coalition of filmmakers includes JJ Abrams, Judd Apatow, Damien Chazelle, Chris Columbus, Ryan Coogler, Bradley Cooper, Alfonso Cuarón, Jonathan Dayton, Guillermo del Toro, Valerie Faris, Hannah Fidell, Alejandro González Iñárritu, James Gunn, Sian Heder, Rian Johnson, Gil Kenan, Karyn Kusama, Justin Lin, Phil Lord, David Lowery, Christopher McQuarrie, Chris Miller, Christopher Nolan, Alexander Payne, Todd Phillips, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Reitman, Jay Roach, Seth Rogen, Emma Seligman, Brad Silberling, Steven Spielberg, Emma Thomas, Denis Villeneuve, Lulu Wang and Chloé Zhao.
“I have been coming to Westwood for as long as I can remember,” Reitman said in a statement. “Many of my films, including Juno, In the air and Ghostbusters Future life all premiered on the corner of Broxton and Weyburn. When the Village Theater came on the market, I had visions of how quickly the National Theater became a condominium block. I immediately made an offer and hoped that my fellow directors would join me in this adventure. “We take this stewardship very seriously and hope to offer a true community for anyone who loves movies.”
News of Reitman’s effort first made headlines earlier this month, but the list of his collaborators was not made public until Wednesday.
Filmmakers owning and maintaining movie theaters in Los Angeles is not a new phenomenon: Quentin Tarantino owns the Vista and the New Beverly, for example.
At the Village Theatre, the directors’ coalition will display many artifacts from their personal collections, including props, costumes and film prints. Columbus will share his extensive collection of 16mm film prints.
“The theater will remain open while plans for a restaurant, bar and gallery are finalized,” the statement continued. “The Westside Purple Line extension will arrive in Westwood in 2027. The Olympic Village for the LA28 Olympic Games will also be located in Westwood. In 2031, the Teatro del Pueblo will celebrate one hundred years of operation.”
In a statement, Nolan said: “Cinema has always been where filmmakers and cinephiles meet, and I’m thrilled to collaborate with so many of my favorite directors in a space that will show what the future of film exhibition can be. “
Del Toro described the vision as “a way to ensure perfect screening conditions, but also a place where filmmakers, cinephiles and future filmmakers can come together to collectively celebrate and discuss the art and craft.”
“I have been advocating for the theater experience for years,” Villeneuve said. “Thank you to Jason for this fantastic opportunity that allows me to put money into what I say.”
“Across Los Angeles we are seeing neighborhoods embrace theaters that offer new programming, real character and a sense of community,” Johnson said. “That’s where the movie-going experience is flourishing. “I’m so excited to be a part of this, with Jason and this amazing group of filmmaker friends.”
Wang added, “There’s nothing like watching movies in a theater and I’m so excited to celebrate with this group of incredible directors who love cinema and the community it can provide.”
“Audience is everything,” McQuarrie said. “They deserve to be reminded of that every time they honor us with their presence.”
Gunn, one of the new owners who have debuted their own work in Westwood, said: “Seeing terminator opening day in 1984 to have my own movie The suicide squad Premiering there in 2021, Village has been part of my personal filmmaking journey. “I am elated and, honestly, a little overwhelmed to be part of this group of directors committed to making it a vibrant place to experience cinema.”
Added Spielberg: “I have many vivid memories of seeing movies at the Village Theater and am excited to be part of this group that intends to restore Westwood to its glory years as a film cultural institution.”
Chazelle said, “It is an honor to be able to join many of my favorite working filmmakers to help breathe new life into a legendary theater. I remember when Jason first proposed the idea to me last year and I’m so excited to see it come to life. Long live cinema!”
Heder added: “It’s exciting to be a part of this company with so many of my film heroes. And create a place that celebrates both the films and the community. “This group of artists might be the most badass film group ever assembled.”
The Village Theater project is represented by Scott Gordon, project developer and chief investment officer at Blatteis & Schnur. Blatteis & Schnur’s core business specializes in the acquisition and creative development of mixed-use properties on High Street in major urban markets across the United States. Glaser Weil acted as legal advisor to the new owners.