(757) 625-6276
Join Our E-List
Steven Spielberg’s 2021 Disney-produced remake of West Side Story has garnered glowing audience and critical acclaim. Although it has had a less than stellar box-office performance (for many reasons not having to do with the film’s quality), it is up for several Oscar nominations. It would definitely be an audience favorite during The Naro’s annual big screen rotation of Academy Award candidates and winners, but alas, we are unable to present this film during this period.
Here’s why:
A few years ago (pre-pandemic) Disney bought and took over Twentieth Century Fox studios. Shorty afterwards they required theaters to declare whether they wanted to be a “first-run” theater, which includes movies that may be weeks or months old, or a “repertory” theater showing both older classics, foreign and independent films. Since our programs are an eclectic mix of old and new films, we had no choice but to be registered with Disney as a repertory house. As a single-screen cinema, this designation also give us more flexibility to rotate several movies during the week, whereas being “first-run” usually forces us to show that one film exclusively at all times, possibly for weeks on end. (And yes, that still sometimes happens based on a particular film’s terms for exhibition.)
But in the case with Disney, we cannot show any of their current releases until they move over to their “classics” division, which could take 6-8 months or more. It is such as stupid rule- that is the only way to describe it given the current market climate for both distributors and exhibitors-but we must comply. Obviously we have complained, but to no avail so far.
Hopefully a national grass-roots effort by independent theaters will one day resolve this ridiculous situation. The fact is that there are very few Naro-type movie theaters that have survived that can help, especially after the pandemic.
As always, the patronage and community support of our audience for The Naro’s continued operation is appreciated beyond measure.
Is there any plan to re-run Hallelujah: Leonard Cohen…? I am eager to see it but can’t make the one showing scheduled for this week.
Why isn’t the Naro playing “Unstuck In Time”?
I drive to the Naro from Virginia Beach because it’s not just like every other theater in town. I want to be able to continue seeing films that wouldn’t get played anywhere else in Hampton Roads. I especially love the nonfiction films. Keep doing what you’re doing and I’ll keep the Naro as my first choice in movie theaters.
I so enjoyed seeing Cyrano in classic theater style- as only the Naro can deliver! Really glad to see Tench, as well. It gives me a feeling that our cinematic future will be bright, indeed.
Disney can wait. Actually there are a few things Disney can do. That said, I’m on my way to see Cyranno. Thanks Naro.
I will wait for anything at the naro. love ya’ll.
Because I love and support the Naro, I continue to wait until movies I want to see are featured here. There’s no screen or sound system equal to the Naro, plus they have the best popcorn in town!
Marsha, my sentiments precisely!