In a world of corporate-owned movie theaters and increasing streaming at-home viewing options, some independent Connecticut movie theaters are not only surviving but flourishing. It’s an underdog story of venues that have figured out how to get people to put down their phones and experience something IRL. It’s all happening at a theater near you.
Greenwood Features, Bethel
When husband and wife Jaimie and Frank Lockwood decided to take over the former Bethel Cinema space in downtown Bethel, they knew it would be an uphill battle. “We bought the movie theater at the height of the pandemic, says Jaimie. “We knew people were not going to come back in droves, so we were going to need to get creative.”
They’ve brought that creativity to the forefront at Greenwood Features by showing first-run films, as well as hosting concerts and a variety of live acts. They’ve also become known for classic movie event screenings in which they transform the theater into an immersive space where cult movie fandom reigns supreme. “People like an experience, we’ve known that since day one,” Jaimie says.
Frank is the former brewer at Reverie Brewing Co. in Newtown, so it makes sense that the theater has a full liquor license featuring local beer as well as movie-themed cocktails. Recently, the theater presented its annual The Big Lebowski screening, complete with interactive games inspired by the film and drink specials, including the requisite White Russian, which features prominently in the cult classic.
Of course, not every part of the journey has a Hollywood story arc. Attendance at Greenwood Features was better in 2024 than in 2025, largely due to the impact of the writer’s strike. But Jaimie and Frank are persisting in the movie business and planning a variety of events for this summer. They are easing the cost – all movies are $5.00 on Thursdays.
Despite the challenges, there’s a lot of joy in running a theater and bringing people from the community together. “It’s been an adventure,” says Jaimie.
The Prospector, Ridgefield
“There’s something special about having a shared experience in a theater and enjoying a movie with others,” says Ryan Wenke, Chief Executive Officer at the Prospector Theater. “It’s nice to have streaming, but, you know, it’s also nice to be amongst an audience.”
The Prospector’s mission also goes deeper than providing a wonderful moviegoing experience. The show-stopping theater is a nonprofit that opened in 2014, and about 75% its 100-plus employees identify with a disability.
“Our mission is improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, and we do that through meaningful employment,” Wenke says. “There’s a wide variety of jobs available within the context of running a movie theater here. You can pop popcorn, usher, or work the box office. We have our Heads Up Cafe and an events team that hosts parties. We also have a facilities team that does our landscaping and a full-fledged video production team.”
Even though it’s a nonprofit, the Prospector is not immune to the post-pandemic movie-going realities. “We’re probably doing 80% of the pre-pademic business. That’s a reflection of less movies coming out and shorter release windows for movies.” In some cases, movies come out and are available on streaming soon after.
To adjust to this new reality, the Prospector has started manufacturing specialty popcorn that is sold throughout Connecticut and beyond and continues to provide guests with a true experience when they visit the theater. “Prior to every movie, our ushers will go out to the front and give a welcoming speech,” Wenke says. “When you come to The Prospector, you’re seeing people with disabilities sparkle and shine.” •
