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fusion260 t1_ivfq0t3 wrote

Unfortunately our film venues in town have been hurting lately.

Bow Tie Movieland on Boulevard had the Criterion theater (separate smaller building on the lot) that showed indie movies. That closed during the pandemic since the theaters were so small and appears to be permanently closed now.

We also had a little theater out in the Near West End that closed years ago and got redeveloped into housing and restaurants (RIP Westhampton Theater).

That pretty much just leaves the Byrd Theatre that does show indie movies and film festivals as one of the more reliable venues in Richmond itself. There's also Ashland Theatre a bit north of us but they seem to be focusing on holiday film favorites right now.

Edit: formatting

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nfojones t1_ivfwvx1 wrote

Dang, I've all but started to forget Westhampton was a thing. That was such a gem for its arthouse selection.

Being taken high as a kite to see Waking Life there without any concept of the film before it started might have been the hardest my brain has ever worked trying to catch up to what I was seeing and hearing.

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fusion260 t1_ivfxv94 wrote

I smile each time I remember seeing The Grand Budapest there in early 2014 with my now-husband when we were still relatively new to dating each other. It’s one of my favorite movies and soundtracks and I’ll think of the Westhampton every time I watch the or listen to it… or get a sandwich at Taste Unlimited ❤️

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WEGCjake t1_ivh4prn wrote

My wife and I had our first Richmond date (she’s from here, we met and started dating in SWVA where I’m from) at the Westhampton. Saw Bowling for Columbine. Very awkward drive home after such an intense documentary, but I think it was an experience that strengthen our young relationship.

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PhoenixAshies t1_ivhw8dh wrote

I'm 99% sure that Westhampton was where my mom snuck my sister & me in to see The Full Monty at an age we had no business seeing it.

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anthropophagoose OP t1_ivfrs8e wrote

that's a bummer to hear but makes sense! I know theaters are definitely struggling- I hope it can turn around here. Thanks!

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