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- Reviving a Westwood landmark: plans and vision
- Who will run programming: American Cinematheque partnership
- Filmmakers’ collective: the Village Directors Circle
- Programming highlights: premieres, retrospectives, festivals
- Lobby, exhibits and audience amenities
- Funding, timeline and the capital campaign
- Community impact and cultural goals
- How the partnership will work: roles and responsibilities
The century-old Village Theater in Westwood is getting a new lease on life. A coalition of filmmakers bought the landmark and struck a programming and operating pact with the American Cinematheque. The move aims to restore the iconic movie palace and reopen it as a premier screening destination by 2027.
Reviving a Westwood landmark: plans and vision
The theater, long known for Hollywood premieres, will be remodeled into a versatile cinematic and event space. The project blends preservation with modern upgrades. Planners hope to reopen in 2027, offering first-run films, premieres and curated retrospectives.
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- Restoration of historic architectural elements.
- Installation of modern projection and sound systems.
- Addition of event and hospitality areas for premieres and special events.
Who will run programming: American Cinematheque partnership
The American Cinematheque will manage operations and curate films. The organization will bring existing festivals and series to the venue. This partnership is intended to combine nonprofit programming with filmmaker involvement.
The Cinematheque will handle day-to-day programming, management, and operation of the 1,000-seat-plus house while collaborating with the Directors Circle on special events and filmmaker-driven series.
Filmmakers’ collective: the Village Directors Circle
A group of more than 30 directors spearheaded the acquisition. They formed the Village Directors Circle to raise funds and guide creative use of the space. Their involvement brings both prestige and industry connections to the restoration effort.
Notable directors participating
- Jason Reitman (lead organizer)
- Steven Spielberg
- Denis Villeneuve
- J.J. Abrams
- Guillermo del Toro
- Christopher Nolan
- Chloé Zhao
- Ryan Coogler
- James Gunn
- Gina Prince-Bythewood
- And others including Judd Apatow, Damien Chazelle, Alfonso Cuarón, and Seth Rogen
Programming highlights: premieres, retrospectives, festivals
The plan blends commercial and cultural programming. Audiences can expect:
- Major red-carpet premieres and awards-season events.
- New theatrical releases alongside curated retrospectives.
- Filmmaker-led conversations and in-person screenings.
- American Cinematheque festivals such as genre and revival series.
Programming will include the Cinematheque’s established offerings and new initiatives curated by directors. The goal is to attract both local moviegoers and international visitors.
Lobby, exhibits and audience amenities
The lobby will become a cultural showcase. Artifacts and memorabilia from participating directors will be displayed. Visitors will find concessions, retail kiosks and flexible event space designed for premieres and receptions.
Exhibit and event zones will connect the venue’s cinematic history to contemporary filmmaking.
Funding, timeline and the capital campaign
Reitman and the Cinematheque are quietly building support for a major renovation fund. They are in the early phase of a capital campaign targeting $25 million.
- Quiet fundraising is underway with early leadership commitments.
- A major technology partner is already involved.
- Construction is expected to begin early next year.
Leaders say individual donors and industry sponsors are key to meeting the restoration goal and equipping the theater with state-of-the-art systems.
Community impact and cultural goals
Organizers emphasize the theater’s role as a cultural hub for Los Angeles. They envision a venue that celebrates cinema and serves local neighborhoods.
The team aims to offer diverse programming that attracts residents, cinephiles, and visitors from around the world.
How the partnership will work: roles and responsibilities
The Directors Circle will focus on fundraising, creative input and community outreach. The American Cinematheque will operate the venue and oversee film curation and programming logistics. Filmmakers will participate in events, curate series, and lend artifacts for display.
- Directors Circle: fundraising and creative stewardship.
- American Cinematheque: management, programming, and operations.
- Filmmakers: guest appearances, curated programs, and exhibitions.
