The curtains are set to close on two of Los Angeles' most storied movie theaters this week as their leases come to an end. Regency Theatres has confirmed that the Westwood Village and Bruin theaters, both significant cultural landmarks in the Westwood Village district, will cease operations after Thursday. Regency has been operating these venues since 2010 and has now reached the end of its tenure, according to a report from CBS News Los Angeles.
Although it's a time of change, Regency's President Lyndon Golin expressed a sentiment of pride for the past stewardship, saying "We have been proud to steward these buildings for the past 14 years and are grateful to the Hollywood community and patrons alike who have supported these iconic theaters," as reported by Daily News. Golin also conveyed excitement to quickly see what the future may hold for the theaters. While the Westwood Village is slated to eventually reopen following a renovation, there are currently no plans for the Bruin's return.
The landmark Westwood Village Theater, which has been a prominent venue since opening in 1931, is known for its 170-foot Spanish Revival Art Deco tower. Its historical value extends to frequent use for Hollywood premieres and a capacity of about 1,400 guests. The theater is expected to reopen, with a collective led by director Jason Reitman having bought the theater earlier this year, intending to restore it. Alongside Reitman, filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and Christopher Nolan are involved, planning to feature personal collections within the space, as per Daily News.
Directly opposite the Westwood Village, the Bruin Theater leaves a more uncertain legacy. Opened in 1937, it sports a Streamline Moderne marquee, harking back to an era of distinctive architectural styles. A spokesman for Newmark, the commercial real estate firm, informed Variety that no decision has yet been made on whether the Bruin will be offered for lease or sale but noted distinct interest from various parties. Reitman's group of directors has reportedly also shown interest in the property, as noted in a Daily News statement.
