The legendary video shop will reopen as a cinema and storefront in the historic Eagle Rock Theatre.
L.A. natives Patty Polinger and Cathy Tauber established Vidiots in Santa Monica back in 1985 and raised it to cult status amongst Angelenos. It was a hub for all things cinema, where masters, emerging talent and established auteurs had a place to convene and contribute to a diverse industry. At the same time, it made its 50,000-title collection of VHS tapes and DVDs accessible to all cinema lovers to spend hours perusing.
A couple of decades later, streaming giants swiftly rolled into the scene, rendering brick-and-mortar shops relics of the past. While many of our favorite video spots were clinging on by the thread of cinematic nostalgia, Vidiots adapted and became the non-profit. Vidiots Foundation now operates as an organization dedicated to restoring and preserving gems.
When Vidiots, closed its screening space and storefront in Santa Monica, locals mourned the loss of the quirky movie paradise. So, it’ll come as welcome news that they’ll be reviving the historic Eagle Rock Theatre as a retro cinema, complete with a video store and a full bar. Restoration work on the 92-year-old theatre is already underway and renderings by Wick Architecture and Design already have us excited. The plans pay homage to both the original eclectic Santa Monica spot and the historic venue but as well as create space for a unique future in the industry.
Once the new space opens this spring, fans will be able to catch classics and new releases in the 50-seat screening room or rent videos from their iconic collection. Along with that, they plan to host workshops and other film programs to keep the community growing.
Location: 4884 Eagle Rock Blvd. Los Angeles
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