$35 a movie? Coming soon to Pasadena, Costa Mesa and Ontario
The big box office business this summer broke records -- but experts were quick to point out that one reason is because the price of movie tickets is higher than ever before. But are we ready for the $35 movie ticket? The Press-Enterprise reports on an ultra-luxury cinema chain is planning to move into Southern California, with theaters in Costa Mesa, Pasadena and Ontario. Details:
"Thirty-five dollars per person? No way," Ted Williams, 37, balked as he strode into the AMC Theaters at Ontario Mills shopping mall last week. He said he'd rather watch the Lakers. Officials with Village Roadshow Ltd., the Australian-based entertainment company behind the Gold Class cinemas, believe their brand will attract adult moviegoers who favor a classier night out and who chafe at the long lines and hordes of gum-smacking teenagers that populate movie monsterplexes. The cinemas will feature suede-covered reclining armchairs, and each theater will seat no more than 40 people. Moviegoers can sip fine wine and dine on gourmet food prepared on the premises, though they will pay more for that. Feeling chilly and need a blanket? Not a problem. Personal attendants clad in black uniforms can be summoned with the press of a button.
The Times' Josh Friedman had the scoop last week, getting the view from the top:
"We're redefining our business as a hospitality business," said Robert G. Kirby, chairman of the entertainment conglomerate, which produces films and already has a line of Gold Class theaters operating Down Under as well as in Singapore and Greece. Kirby said Gold Class was designed a decade ago to enable regular schmoes to enjoy movies like Hollywood studio bigwigs do, in plush screening rooms with first-class catering. "We can all get from A to B," Kirby said, "but people like to drive a BMW. You can stay at a motel or enjoy the luxury of a Four Seasons Hotel."
-Shelby Grad
Photo of Robert G. Kirby by Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times
