“Calgary’s independent film community is facing a crisis with the imminent shutdown of one downtown cinema and the potential sale of another. The closure of the Cineplex Odeon Eau Claire Market Cinemas and the listing of the Globe Cinema have sparked concerns among filmmakers and film enthusiasts in the city.
The Heartache of Losing a Cinematic Hub:
The news of the closure and potential sale has left Brenda Lieberman, the founder of the Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF), in a state of distress. The Globe Cinema has been the heart and soul of the festival, and the thought of losing this cultural hub is keeping Lieberman up at night.
The Threat to Downtown Cultural Footprint:
The Globe Cinema is not just a movie theatre; it is a symbol of downtown Calgary’s cultural vibrancy. If the theatre is sold and transformed into something else, it could threaten the city’s downtown cultural footprint. The loss of independent theatres like the Globe could diminish the city’s cultural fabric and community cohesion.
A Call to Preserve Cinematic Heritage:
Filmmaker Levi Holwell, in his documentary ‘Magic Hours,’ sheds light on the precarious state of movie houses across Alberta. The closure of one theatre could set off a domino effect, leading to the loss of many more historical and cultural landmarks. Holwell urges citizens to recognize the impact of losing these spaces and to take action to preserve them.
Looking Towards a Sustainable Future:
While there are no immediate plans to close the Globe Cinema, it is crucial for the city to come together to find a way to preserve and operate it as a community space. The growing popularity of film festivals in Calgary indicates a strong demand for independent cinemas like the Globe. Investing in these cultural spaces is an investment in the city’s artistic and creative future.
In Conclusion:
The potential closure of the Globe Cinema and the shutdown of the Cineplex Odeon Eau Claire Market Cinemas are not just losses for the film community but for the city as a whole. It is a wake-up call to appreciate and protect our cultural heritage and to ensure that spaces like the Globe continue to thrive in Calgary. As we navigate the changing landscape of cinema, let us remember the importance of preserving our cinematic history and supporting independent film culture.”
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