Look Cinemas is set to take over the former iPic Theater in Old Pasadena, with plans to reopen the six-screen venue in December, just in time for the much-anticipated releases of "Dune: Part Three" and "Avengers: Doomsday." Located at One Colorado, the theater will feature luxury reclining pod seating, immersive picture and sound, and a menu of chef-inspired food and craft beverages delivered directly to guests' seats. This takeover comes after the iPic multiplex closed in June amid bankruptcy proceedings, marking a significant shift in the local cinema landscape.
The history of the Old Pasadena cinema dates back to 1991, when it first opened as an AMC before transitioning through various ownerships, including Laemmle and Gold Class luxury cinemas. Brian Schultz, CEO of Look Dine-In Cinemas, emphasized the importance of maintaining a local cinema presence, stating, "A local cinema is where a community comes together to laugh, cry, be inspired and share experiences." Schultz expressed eagerness to welcome the Pasadena community back to the movies, reinforcing the theater's role as a gathering place for shared experiences.S2
Mark Ross, Senior Vice President and head of retail leasing at Perform Properties, highlighted the significance of the cinema as part of the One Colorado experience, which includes popular restaurants and boutique shops. He stated, "Our goal is to create places with people appeal – spaces where people want to shop, gather, and connect." The programming at the new Look Cinemas will encompass first-run films, independent films, documentaries, event screenings, and concert films, alongside options for private screening rentals and group bookings.S2
The Los Angeles area has been experiencing a cinema revival, with several theaters undergoing renovations or new ownership. Notably, the Director’s Village in Westwood is currently being remodeled and is expected to open next year, while Glendale’s historic Alex Theatre has been successfully programming first-run films. The Bay Theater in Pacific Palisades is also set to reopen soon, further contributing to the region's cinematic landscape. Despite the pandemic's impact, moviegoing in the area has seen a strong rebound, with local cinephiles eagerly anticipating the reopening of iconic venues like the Cinerama Dome and Alamo theaters complex in Hollywood, targeted for 2028.S2
