5 things you (probably) didn't know about Vancouver's Park Theatre

Cineplex plans to close the historic Park Theatre in Vancouver on October 26, 2025, moving its 70 mm projector to a new location. This closure raises questions about the future of the theatre, which has been a staple in Cambie Village for decades. Originally opened with excitement and praised for its modern features, the Park Theatre has a rich history, including its role in launching Odeon Theatres, a significant player in Canadian cinema. In 2005, Leonard Schein, the founder of the Vancouver International Film Festival, renovated the theatre to save it from closure after Famous Players opened a multiplex. The theatre became notable for introducing loveseats, enhancing the movie-going experience.

Additionally, it was the only theatre in Vancouver to feature Sensurround during the release of the disaster film Earthquake in 1974. Although its future remains uncertain, the Park Theatre's legacy as a cultural landmark in Vancouver endures. The potential for new operators to take over the lease offers a glimmer of hope for its continuation.