As somebody who used to walk down to the previous movie theater incarnations (AMC, Madstone and Sunrise) in Hyde Park Village, I was delighted to hear last December that another movie house would be setting up shop in the vacated Swann Avenue space. I was immediately reminded that it had been much too long since that “Munich” matinee followed by post-mortem cappuccinos at Indigo.
The new movie house would be one of Cobb Theatres’ CineBistro concepts. The six-screener would open this fall. A walkable option to NetFlix.
And as somebody who cares about the viability of Hyde Park Village, I was happy for the merchants who can use the influx of more potential shoppers, especially during a recession. These tenants can use some energizing news, especially with the holidays approaching. Movie theaters can be catalysts for communities – residential and business.
Moreover, I believe in supporting your own. Restaurants, boutiques, movies.
And now, as of last week, CineBistro is open.
Having said all that, I do have this misgiving. Maybe it’s misplaced. Perhaps it’s just terminal old-schoolism encroaching again. Like iPod zombies not responding to “Hey, watch out” admonitions at intersections.
I like the big-screen, movie-escape experience. So much so, that I don’t suffer distractions well. It’s beyond cell phonies. So much so, I’m wary of a concept that offers restaurant service and (for those over 21) a menu that includes wine, draft beer and cocktails. Patrons, however, are served before the movie begins. But, no, catheters are not provided for the weak-bladdered. I’m leery, maybe unnecessarily, about unnecessary diversions. I’m there for the movie; I can eat at the Wine Exchange or Restaurant BT.
But I really hope this concept, which is no longer novel, succeeds. It certainly has in other places. CineBistro will feature new releases as well as art and indie films — and surround sound…and even accommodations for 3-D. And, imagine, a glass of wine, some sushi and a movie sans teens…and lobby ambience that doesn’t include a gauntlet of video games. Muvico at BayWalk should have it so grown up.
There are good, aforementioned reasons why there are proven markets for this trendy concept. Chances are it’s even made its share of old-school converts. I look forward to the opportunity – and challenge. But I’ll go with a burger over the sushi – and hold the caveats.
And then I’ll let you know how it turned out.