SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane’s Magic Lantern Theater is experiencing a revival as small cinemas across the Lilac City see a resurgence in the local film community.
Known for showcasing smaller productions, Magic Lantern is drawing large crowds with the release of Netflix hits such as “Train Dreams” and Guillermo del Toro’s “Frankenstein.”
Bailey Coogan from Magic Lantern Theater noted the enthusiasm for these films, even after their Netflix release.
“So many people were still showing up for Frankenstein and Train Dreams even after it went to Netflix, because everyone would just say, like, this is where you’re meant to see it,” Coogan said.
Coogan emphasized the unique experience of watching a movie in a theater, highlighting the shared moment with fellow audience members.
“Every time, even if it’s the same movie, every time you go see a movie, it’s a unique experience. And the people that you’re in there with are the only other people that have that unique experience with you,” she said.
Coogan described the irreplaceable feeling of a full theater, the surround sound and the curtains pulling back to reveal the big screen. She believes that the unique experience and the community of small theaters keep the “magic” of Magic Lantern alive.
Magic Lantern Theater also hosts special events, with film festivals being a significant part of their offerings. The theater will host the Jewish Film Festival in just a week and the Spokane International Film Festival in February.
