Movies
Plaza Frontenac Court Battle: Evicting Silver Cinemas
2024-12-04
The St. Louis movie scene has witnessed a significant shift with the dwindling presence of Silver Cinemas. Once a prominent name with theaters in various locations, it now finds itself with only the Frontenac location. This article delves into the details of Silver Cinemas' acquisition and its current predicament at the Plaza Frontenac mall.

Unraveling Silver Cinemas' St. Louis Journey

Silver Cinemas' Acquisition History

Silver Cinemas Acquisition Co. has long been associated with the showing of independent movies. It started with a diverse portfolio of theaters across the St. Louis area. However, recent events have led to a consolidation, leaving only the Frontenac location. This change has not only affected the moviegoers but also the local film industry. The Tivoli Theatre in the Delmar Loop and Hi-Pointe Theatre, which were once part of the Silver Cinemas empire, have now closed their doors. This marks a turning point in the history of Silver Cinemas and the St. Louis movie scene.

The acquisition of Silver Cinemas by an unknown entity and its subsequent struggles at the Plaza Frontenac mall have raised several questions. Why did the mall owner decide to evict the longtime movie theater? What led to the financial difficulties faced by Silver Cinemas? These are some of the issues that this article aims to explore.

The Lawsuit and Back Rent Issue

An entity tied to New York-based Brookfield Properties has taken legal action against Silver Cinemas Acquisition Co. in St. Louis County Circuit Court. The suit alleges that Plaza Frontenac Cinema, run by Los Angeles-based Landmark Theatres, owes $274,000 in back rent. This has put the future of the Frontenac location in jeopardy. The lawsuit seeks possession of the premises located on the second floor of the mall near Saks Fifth Avenue.

The legal battle between Brookfield and Silver Cinemas has drawn significant attention. It has raised concerns among movie lovers and industry insiders alike. The outcome of this lawsuit will have a profound impact on the future of Silver Cinemas in St. Louis. Will they be able to pay the back rent and retain their location? Or will they be forced to close their doors forever?

The Impact on the St. Louis Movie Scene

The closure of Silver Cinemas' other theaters and the potential eviction of the Frontenac location have had a significant impact on the St. Louis movie scene. Independent movies, which were the mainstay of Silver Cinemas, now have a limited number of screening options in the area. This could lead to a decline in the visibility and popularity of independent films in St. Louis.

Moreover, the loss of Silver Cinemas has also affected the local economy. The theaters employed a significant number of people, and their closure has led to job losses. Additionally, the mall itself may also suffer as a result of the absence of a popular movie theater. The future of the St. Louis movie scene remains uncertain, and it remains to be seen how it will adapt to this change.

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