The ongoing saga of cinema revivals in Tempe continues, with contrasting fortunes for two local favorites. The Valley Art Theater's future hangs in the balance, with Phoenix film aficionados hoping for a renaissance, while Pollack Cinemas teases its clientele with the promise of imminent upgrades and a grand reopening.
Despite a Change.org petition aimed at convincing Harkins Theatres to reopen and to possibly upgrade the Valley Art theater, only a modest outpouring of community support has been evident. Just 77 signatories have lent their digital autographs since the petition went live on December 2, according to an article published by Phoenix New Times. The petition calls for honoring the theater's historic role while evolving to meet the modern moviegoer's experience.
On the brighter side of the marquee, Pollack Cinemas is actively embracing change. An update shared on their Facebook page confirmed plans for an "amazing remodel" that will include not only plush seating and a revamped concession stand but also a state-of-the-art arcade and memorabilia area. The exact date for the grand reopening remains under wraps, but management promises an announcement is forthcoming, as chronicled by ABC15.
Valley Art, on the other hand, has yet to confirm any concrete plans to rise from a silence that has stretched for half a decade. Laurie Foster, President and CEO of the Downtown Tempe Authority, expressed her support for the theater's comeback, a sentiment she has also seen echoed across social media platforms. "We would love for it to be open again," Foster told Phoenix New Times, highlighting the potential for the venue to weave back into the cultural fabric of Mill Avenue.
As Valley Art continues to project uncertainty on its marquee, one side of which once optimistically read, "Movies are forever. We'll see you soon," the stubborn shadows cast by the pandemic persist. However, in the interim, cinephiles in Tempe can look forward to revisiting the nostalgic and affordable pleasure offered by Pollack Cinemas, which has been a community cornerstone known for its budget-friendly second-run screenings.
