In the heart of Kernersville, North Carolina, a small local movie theater faces a daunting challenge. Trex Cinema, a beloved community hub, may have to close its doors at the start of 2025 due to declining movie ticket sales. But its owner, Don Trexler, and a local resident, Eric Caudle, are determined to keep the projectors rolling and the magic of cinema alive.

Preserving the Cinematic Experience for Future Generations

A Lifelong Passion for the Silver Screen

Don Trexler's love for movies began at a young age, when his mother took him to see the classic film "Old Yeller." That moment ignited a spark within him, and he knew then that he wanted to one day own a movie theater. Years later, Trexler's dream became a reality as he and his family operated a chain of five theaters. However, the decision to sell those theaters left Trexler longing for the movie business once again.

Reviving a Cherished Community Landmark

When the Countryside Cinema in Kernersville shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic, Trexler saw an opportunity. Living just five minutes away, he had watched the theater's closure with a heavy heart, and he was determined to breathe new life into it. After a lengthy and costly renovation process, Trexler reopened the theater as Trex Cinema, driven by his desire to bring the magic of movies back to his community.

The Challenges of Running a Small-Town Theater

While Trexler's passion for cinema is unwavering, the business side of operating a movie theater has proven to be a significant challenge. The post-pandemic decline in movie-going, coupled with the actors' and writers' strike, has resulted in fewer quality films to draw in audiences. Additionally, the high licensing fees demanded by major movie studios make it increasingly difficult for small-town theaters like Trex Cinema to stay afloat.

A Community's Rallying Cry

When local resident Eric Caudle learned of Trex Cinema's plight, he knew he had to take action. Caudle, with his years of marketing experience, has been working tirelessly to boost the theater's social media presence and organize special events to attract more patrons. Caudle, like many in the community, has fond memories of the transformative power of the cinematic experience, and he is determined to ensure that future generations can share in that magic.

The Importance of Preserving Community Hubs

Trex Cinema is more than just a movie theater; it is a hub for the Kernersville community, hosting various events and serving as a gathering place for residents. The loss of this cherished institution would be felt deeply, as Caudle aptly states, "Once it goes away, it's gone. And the chances of getting it back are kind of slim."

A Fight for the Future of Cinema

For Trexler, the battle to keep Trex Cinema open is not just about maintaining his business; it's about preserving the cinematic experience that inspired him as a child and that he wants to share with his grandchildren and future generations. He is determined to do whatever it takes to ensure that the movie projectors at Trex Cinema continue to light up the screen, transporting audiences to new worlds and creating lasting memories.