Following last week’s launch of “Operation: Save Houston Cinema” by the Houston Film Critics Society (HFCS), Houstonians rallied to the cause by purchasing every available ticket to Saturday’s screenings of the now Oscar-nominated film “The Father” at Landmark’s River Oaks Theatre. The HFCS had designated that day and that specific film, in order to focus the public’s support for this historic theatre and promote the preservation of theatre-going experience.
The theatre’s lease on the property, held by Weingarten Realty, expires on March 31, 2021 and negotiations between the two parties are at a standstill. A shutdown within weeks is expected.
Paul Serwitz, President and COO of Landmark Theatres, expressed his thanks to the HFCS and acknowledged the weekend’s success. “Landmark Theatres has been incredibly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for our residency at the River Oaks. The Houston Film Critics Society’s initiative to sell out the opening Saturday of “The Father”, brought pre-pandemic energy back to the River Oaks. We are so grateful for this gesture.”
In addition to these four sold-out showings, the theatre reported high levels of activity for its weekend screenings of “Nomadland” and “Minari”. Landmark’s COVID-19 mask and social distancing protocols were in place and all three auditoriums were at reduced capacity.
“With the help of the media and our HFCS members’ outlets, we put out the call and people responded quickly and decisively,” notes Doug Harris, HFCS President. “Many bought tickets, even though they were unable to attend a showing. That’s how committed Houstonians are to keeping this theatre.”
Harris admits the theatre’s future remains uncertain. “We’re not privy to the details of these negotiations, but we’re hopeful and will continue to encourage people to write and email local officials and Weingarten Realty.”
Additional information on the campaign is available at https://houstonfilmcritics.com/hfcs-launches-save-houston-cinema-campaign/.
About The Houston Film Critics Society
The forty-one members of the Houston Film Critics Society are working film journalists on television, radio, online and in traditional print. Together, they reach millions of people each week across the United States with their critiques and commentaries on film. The organization’s mission is to promote the advancement and appreciation of film in the Houston community and beyond. For a list of members, visit HoustonFilmCritics.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Doug Harris, President
Houston Film Critics Society
(713) 569-7716
