Denver loses another unique business

Submitted by Mickki Langston on Wed, 09/24/2008 - 1:20pm

The Denver Post ran an article today about the closing of Neighborhood Flix, a locally-owned and independent cinema located on East Colfax. The cinema had been open less than a year, and served some of the best macaroni and cheese I've ever tasted.

Built upon concepts of art, community and one-of-a-kind experiences, the theatre served good popcorn for $3.50 and featured comfy couches to watch the big screen.

The Post article says Neighborhood Flix was "done in by an inability to compete for first-run films." We posted a letter last week from manager Leeanna Marsh, who shared:

"Since Neighborhood Flix opened its doors a year ago, it has had to fight against larger territorial movie chains for the fair opportunity to showcase first-run films," she wrote. "In the film industry, the first few weekends of a film are the most lucrative.

"We've been working very hard to secure these opening films for our fans, and to help us bring in the business we need to keep our doors open. Yet, we haven't been successful due to the overwhelming influence, deep pockets and business practices of our competitors."

I was heartbroken when I heard the news that Denver has lost yet another unique, locally-owned business. The cinema was well loved (I heard from people all the time who were huge fans of the place) Whatever debate may be raging on the Post site about whether it was a good idea or whether the owners made the best decisions, there is something for us to deal with as a community:

Having unique local businesses is not an accident. Nor does it happen magically. It takes our participation, our business. Our choices - where we shop, what we buy, where we dine - have real consequences beyond the immediate impact on our bellies and wallet. We have the opportunity to vote with our dollars to say, "I like this, and want to keep it around." The creation of community, of a Denver that's not like every other city - this can not be passive.

We're about to step up our Colorado Local First media campaign, to raise awareness of who is truly local and what that really means to our community. You can already search for great local businesses on our local business directory, and leave feedback about your experiences. Check it out, as this is your opportunity to ensure that we don't lose another great local business.