Coolidge Corner Theater, Kendall Square Cinema, Somerville Theater, Brattle Theater, Dedham Community Theater, Embassy Cinema in Watham - These are all smaller independent or community theaters just outside the city of Boston. With the closing of the Copley Place Cinemas a few years ago, our city no longer has a theater dedicated to independent film. Dorchester would be a perfect place to open a new small theater. With the diversity of culture and a growing art community, as well as the neighborhood's dedication to supporting local business, such a theater would thrive. Not only that, people would patronize local eateries and cafes before and after their shows, bringing even more into the neighborhood.Two examples shine as great models: The first is the Pleasant Street Theater in Northampton, Mass. This two screen theater is not in a traditional movie-house, but instead opened in 1976 in a former shoe store. The second example comes from San Francisco and the 4 Star Theater on Clement Street. Its screen is not very large and they don't have the latest super-surround sound, but its focus on ethnic films (particularly Asian and Asian American films) makes it an asset. Both are no frill theaters that serve as a bedrock of their communities. (In full disclosure, Chris grew up in western Mass. and Erin in the Bay Area and so we have a lot of expeierence going to these two theaters and can vouch for their greatness...)
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