Kamloops theatre reopens for private bookings just in time for Valentine’s Day

Paramount Theatre in Kamloops has come up with a unique way to try and generate some much-needed revenue while COVID-19 restrictions continue to put a damper on operations.

The Kamloops Film Society is offering Valentine's Day bookings for couples or groups of up to six that include popcorn, drinks, candy and a film of your choice.

Couples can book their date night for $150 plus tax for two-and-a-half hours of theatre time. And groups of up to six from the same household can get their theatre time and snacks for $225 plus tax.

"For moviegoers, it is a perfect opportunity to have the theatre experience for films they did not before, like Jaws," said Kamloops Film Society executive director Dušan Magdolen.

If they want a more contemporary flick, Magdolen recommended Christopher Nolan's Tenet since itwould have been difficult to catch in the fall but great on the big screen.

Bookings come with the option to bring your own BluRay, DVD, or device with an HDMI output to watch the film of your choice. The Kamloops Film Society can also try to source a copy of the film, if needed.

The Kamloops Film Society was forced to cancel private bookings in December after public health restrictions tightened.

They had a successful run of screenings in the fall, but when the provincial notice came in they had to cancel 22 bookings, according to Magdolen. 

After receiving a few private screening requests already in anticipation of restrictions loosening this month, Magdolen said they look forward to allowing viewers the ability to experience films they love on the big screen again.

Although the Rio Theatre in Vancouver found a new way forward by closing then re-opening as a sports bar in January, the Kamloops non-profit says they have no plans to do the same. 

"We don't want to look like we're trying to game the system," said Magdolen. "To some extent, we're all fighting for our lives. So we just want to come up with safe options and opening up for families in private screenings seems like a way to do that."

See the Kamloops Film Society's website here for more information on private screenings.

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