This makes me sad. I _really_ enjoy the drafthouse and I rarely see movies anywhere else because all other major theater chains prioritize squeezing dollars vs the experience.
I see that the founder(s) are still involved but I can't help think that it'll just be a slow decline until the drafthouse is indistinguishable from AMC or other chains and their infinite commercial pre-rolls and dirty theaters.
I hope I am proven wrong OR another theater that respects the art springs up to fill the potential void.
I generally feel that the Alamo Drafthouse experience is actually pretty terrible for movies other than big action or comedy blockbusters. I don't see how a place that serves popcorn in a giant metal bowl takes quietness seriously. And although they advertise it, they really don't police talking or distractions anymore or even equivalently as other theaters.
Don't worry; this is just Chapter 11. It gives Alamo time to restructure their debts, and likely is a prelude to a big cash infusion from somewhere. They're a fantastic, profitable business in normal times; tearing the company apart and selling it for scrap would not be in anyone's best interests.
On the downside, as the article mentions, some of their lower-performing locations will likely close.
I see that the founder(s) are still involved but I can't help think that it'll just be a slow decline until the drafthouse is indistinguishable from AMC or other chains and their infinite commercial pre-rolls and dirty theaters.
I hope I am proven wrong OR another theater that respects the art springs up to fill the potential void.