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The rise of the Internet and piracy, as well as the dominance of streaming platforms such as Netflix, HBO and Amazon Prime Video, has accelerated a process that we once considered inconceivable: the closure of many mythical cinemas in Catalonia. The last of them, that of the Yelmo Icaria cinemas, has made us reflect on it and, to pay homage to the theaters that are closing little by little, we wanted to review the last emblematic cinemas that have closed in Catalonia, especially in Barcelona.
Icarian Helm
We start with the most recent closure and the one that has motivated us to write this list. After more than 25 years active, andn July 28th, the most mythical cinema in the Vila Olímpica del Poblenou closed. Jaume Ripoll, co-founder and editorial director of Filmin, gave the news on social networks, but did not clarify the reasons for the end of these cinemas. The establishment had 15 rooms and a total of 2,269 seats.
Cinemas Urgell
Was one of the largest cinemas in Barcelona, with a total of 1,832 seats. On May 30, 2013, they closed their doors due to a drop in ticket sales, an increase in VAT and piracy. The last film he screened was Fast & Furious 6 and during his later years he hosted many Phenomena screenings.
Palau Balaña
The great multiplex of Grupo Balaña which was next to the Sants station. It opened on December 11, 1965 and had 1,610 locations at the time. It closed on February 28, 2020, shortly before the confinement due to Covid began. In interior years he tried to adapt to new times, implementing 3D technology, for example. It wasn’t enough and the audience languished over the years.
Cines Rex
It opened its doors on December 24, 1940 and disappeared on July 29, 2010. A large part of its offer consisted of films in the original version with subtitles. His last film was a French film, Le concert. The end of the Cines Rex was precipitated after the Balañá chain opened the multiplex in the current Las Arenas shopping center. There is still no news of its possible reuse.
Cines Casablanca Chaplain
It was the only cinema open during the democratic epic during Passeig de Gràcia (it opened its doors in December 1980). It consisted of two small rooms that would almost always project auteur films or original version. It was not the best cinema in terms of facilities: the seats were uncomfortable and you could hear the movie from the other room. But the public was delighted to see good cinema that is difficult to find in other theaters. It closed in 2011.
Who is Alexandra?
The history of these cinemas is full of curiosities. For example, on May 13, 2022, the movie marquee collapsed, slightly injuring two assistants. And it ended up closing in 2013 due to the crisis in the sector. His last film of his to be screened? Sitting Pretty, the same film that opened the Alexandra Cinema in the distant 1949.
2023-07-30 20:02:49
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