Cinema closure to be a genuine tear-jerker
A RIPPLE of sadness has spread throughout the Cairns community with many movie buffs already in mourning for the imminent closure of the Grafton St cinemas.
Mooroobool resident Vinie Lal said it was the only Cairns cinema that played Bollywood films and he worried there could be a lack of cultural diversity if the other cinemas didn’t fill the void.
So far nothing has been confirmed for the prime CBD space once the cinemas close on July 18.
“We are saddened to permanently close the Cairns City site,” said Event Cinemas team member Deanne Clark.
“We believe, however, it was the best decision for the Cairns market as we can invest and focus on the best movie experience across our other three cinemas.”
She said that “virtually all staff” would be redeployed across the other three sites.
It’s possibly the end of an era for the site, which has screened movies since the Odeon Cinema opened in 1972.
Mount Sheridan couple Richard and Eleanor Visser have been watching flicks at the Grafton St cinema for 20 years and were very disappointed to hear it was closing.
Both loved the more intimate feel of the cinema.
“It’s smaller and more private … not as busy,” Mrs Visser said.
Mr Lal and his partner, Celine Rasaili, started going to the CBD venue since moving to Cairns two years ago from Brisbane.
“In Brisbane every other cinema plays Bollywood movies, but in Cairns this is the only one,” he said.
“We love Bollywood movies, so every time there is a new one out we come and have a look. When this one closes down I hope they screen Bollywood movies in the other cinemas for all the fans.”
Event Cinemas sent an email alerting their Cinebuzz members of the closure on Monday afternoon.
The final event will be a Chicks at the Flicks screening of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again on Wednesday, July 18.
“We expect this to be a big celebration with many stories to be shared,” Ms Clark said.
“The Cairns City site has seen many magical moments from first dates, family celebrations and romantic anniversaries and we have loved sharing these memories.”