Columbia Theatre Faces New Challenges in Adapting to Changing Cinema Landscape

Columbia Theatre Faces New Challenges in Adapting to Changing Cinema Landscape

In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, the beloved Nickelodeon Theatre, affectionately known as the Nick, is navigating through some *unexpected changes*. This independent theater has long been a sanctuary for fans of indie films, showcasing *emotionally rich and stylistically daring* stories from smaller studios. Yet, as the post-pandemic world has taken over, the Nick is finding it more challenging than ever to remain true to its roots while meeting the evolving demands of moviegoers.

The New Norm: Mainstream Takes the Spotlight

As the team at the Nick prepares for the upcoming fall season, there’s an intriguing film called “Anora” making waves in the indie film circuit. This romantic comedy-drama, which recently claimed the prestigious Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, is anticipated by many as a potential Best Picture nominee at the Oscars. But despite the buzz, it hasn’t yet made it to the Nick’s schedule.

So, what’s up with that? Well, Executive Director Sumner Bender explains, *“It’s tougher than ever to secure these indie films,”* as many productions are now intended for direct-to-streaming releases or are snatched up by larger Hollywood studios. This shift, fueled by the pandemic’s impact, has transformed the theater’s landscape quite drastically. *“They are fighting against the companies sending directly to streaming. We have no control over that,”* Bender points out.

The Nick’s programming has seen an undeniable shift towards more mainstream films. Recent blockbusters like *“Joker: Folie à Deux,” “Beetlejuice,”* and *”Dune: Part Two”* have found their way onto the theater’s screens, taking over slots that might have previously been reserved for indie films. Bender acknowledges this pivot, noting that putting people in seats with popular titles has been crucial for their survival.

Bridging the Gap: Indie and Mainstream

One delightful surprise has been the *“Barbenheimer”* phenomenon, which saw audiences flock to the Nick for double features of *“Barbie”* and *“Oppenheimer.”* Bender proudly shares that *“Barbie”* is now the highest-grossing film in the theater’s 45-year history. “Getting butts in seats made us realize that newcomers were eager to visit downtown Main Street for a movie experience,” adds Bender. So, is it a win-win for the Nick? While some community members express concern about indie films being sidelined, Bender argues that any film bringing in more viewers adds value to Columbia’s movie scene.

The Financial Picture

Numbers give a clearer perspective. In the last fiscal year, the Nick generated over *$413,000* from ticket sales, with first-run films making up a whopping *$370,000*. It also pleasantly exceeded expectations in the concession department, raising nearly *$262,000*. However, as a nonprofit, the theater relies on community support, garnering contributions of over *$324,000* from individuals and more than *$178,000* from grants. Maintaining affordable ticket prices ($10 for matinees and $12 for evening shows) is crucial, says Bender, noting that grants help cover those costs and ensure fair wages for their staff.

A Call for Community Engagement

Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that not all community members feel equally supported. Columbia filmmaker Christopher Bickel expressed frustration after his request to hold the premiere of his film, “Pater Noster and the Mission of Light,” at the Nick was denied due to scheduling conflicts. Bickel later managed to premiere in Charlotte, citing the ease of working with other venues as a stark contrast to the Nick’s scheduling challenges.

Bender and her team have responded to such feedback. They highlight various community events held from July 2022 to December 2024, showcasing local talent and groups. *“People often didn’t realize we were for them,”* she stated, emphasizing the need to engage more actively with the local film community.

Looking Ahead: Building Bridges

Both the Nick and local filmmakers hope to bridge any gaps that have arisen. Bender expresses excitement about future collaborations, *“We want to bring community members’ work in here.”* As the theater considers reviving its internally programmed film festivals, which had been dormant since the pandemic, it’s clear that the Nick is eager to foster relationships with local creatives.

As Columbia continues to grow and adapt, the Nick stands as a reminder of the power of film to connect communities and tell diverse stories. With a little patience, teamwork, and open dialogue, it’s possible that this cherished theatre can remain true to its roots while embracing new opportunities in Columbia’s evolving cultural landscape.