The Fight to Keep North Jersey’s Independent Movie Theaters Alive

file photo courtesy of Boyd Loving

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, independent movie theaters in North Jersey are facing an uphill battle. With the rise of streaming services and competition from major theater chains, small cinemas must reinvent themselves to survive.

The struggle was underscored at the 97th Academy Awards, when New Jersey native and director Sean Baker warned that traditional theaters are “under threat” and urged audiences to support them.

“If we don’t reverse this trend, we’ll be losing a vital part of our culture. This is my battle cry.” – Sean Baker

His plea resonates deeply in New Jersey, where many historic theaters have closed in recent years—including Maplewood, Paterson, Ramsey, Ridgewood and Rutherford cinemas.

In January of 2024 , Ridgewood Village Manager Keith Kazmark commented on the closing of  Warner Bow Tie Cinemas saying in a Facebook post;

“While our community is saddened by the news of the closing of Warner Bow Tie Cinemas (after 90+ years), a new chapter will soon be written. Mayor Vagianos has been in touch with ownership and Bow Tie Partners plans to remain part of the downtown Ridgewood community. They are currently evaluating multiple scenarios for redevelopment of the movie theater space, including conversion back to a single auditorium to be used as a performing arts venue. More to come as plans finalize!”

How Are North Jersey’s Theaters Surviving?

The key to survival? Diversification.

At Westwood Cinema, corporate events, school fundraisers, and birthday parties help keep the doors open.

“If it weren’t for that, we’d be out of business.” – Roger Tashjian, Westwood Cinema

Meanwhile, Fort Lee’s Barrymore Film Center has embraced live events, including:
✅ Film Q&As
✅ Live comedy
✅ Music performances
✅ Cinema education programs

“Our goal is to make a visit to the theater more than just watching a film.” – Nina Larson, Barrymore Film Center

The Biggest Challenges for Independent Theaters

1️⃣ Shorter Exclusivity Windows – Studios are sending films to streaming faster than ever, reducing the draw of the big screen.

2️⃣ Rising Costs – Real estate prices and rent increases have forced theaters like Center Cinemas in Rutherford to shut down.

3️⃣ Streaming Giants Dominate – Netflix, Hulu, Apple, and Amazon are shaping viewing habits, making at-home entertainment the norm.

4️⃣ Pandemic Aftershocks – From 2020-2023, over 4,800 theaters closed nationwide, and many never recovered.

Can Special Events Save Theaters?

Blockbuster events like “Barbenheimer” in summer 2023 proved that audiences still crave the big-screen experience.

💥 Sing-along screenings of Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour”
💥 Cult film marathons
💥 Themed premieres (like the upcoming “Wicked” movie)

“There is still tremendous money to be made in theatrical releases.” – David Fresko, Rutgers University

Why Going to the Movies Still Matters

Movies aren’t just about watching a film—they’re about shared experiences.

“We can laugh together, cry together. In a time where the world feels divided, that’s more important than ever.” – Sean Baker

For North Jersey’s independent theaters, adapting is essential—but community support is just as crucial. Without it, these cultural landmarks could become a thing of the past.

The King of Con by Thomas Giacomaro and Natasha Stoynoff https://theridgewoodblog.net/king-of-con-by-thomas-giacomaro-and-natasha-stoynoff/#invest ,#Wefunder #startupfunding, #venturecapital, #crowdfunding, #fundmystartup, #investinstartups, #startupinvesting, #fundraising, #startuplife, #startupcommunity, #startupgrind, #investmentopportunity