Full Breakdown
Kristen Stewart Revives Historic Highland Theatre in Los Angeles
2/5/2026, 4:09:00 AM
Highland Theatre Purchase and Vision
Kristen Stewart has confirmed her acquisition of the historic Highland Theatre, located in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. Originally opened in 1925, the theater has been a significant cultural landmark but closed its doors in 2024 due to economic struggles exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Stewart's purchase aims to revitalize this nearly century-old venue and transform it into a community-driven cinema space.
Stewart expressed her fascination with old theaters, stating, “I didn’t realize I was looking for a theater until this place came to my attention. Then it was like a gunshot went off and the race was on. I ran toward it with everything I had.” Her vision for the Highland Theatre extends beyond mere restoration; she aims to create a gathering space for the community, emphasizing that it should not cater solely to "pretentious Hollywood cinephiles."
Plans for Restoration and Community Engagement
Stewart envisions the Highland Theatre as a hub for creativity and community interaction. She articulated her desire to create “a space to gather and scheme and dream together,” indicating that the theater will serve as a venue for both families and filmmakers. The project is seen as an antidote to the commercialization of cinema, with Stewart stating, “I see it as an antidote to all the corporate bullshit, a place that takes movie culture away from just buying and selling.”
The restoration will require significant effort, as Stewart acknowledged the need to preserve the theater's historical features while introducing new ideas. “There are so many beautiful details that need to be restored. I think there’s a way to bring the building back to life in a way that embraces its history but also brings something new to the neighborhood and the whole L.A. film community,” she explained.
Broader Implications for Cinema
Stewart's initiative reflects a growing trend among filmmakers to reclaim and revitalize historic theaters. This movement includes notable figures like Quentin Tarantino, who owns the Vista Theatre, and Jason Reitman, who led a coalition to purchase the Fox Village Theatre in Westwood. Stewart's commitment to the Highland Theatre aligns with her broader advocacy for the local film community and the preservation of classic cinema.
In her own words, Stewart emphasized the importance of cinema as a communal experience, stating, “Making films is a political act. You have to decide how you want to wield your presence and your voice.” Her dedication to the project underscores a desire to foster a new model of film exhibition that prioritizes community engagement over commercial interests.
Official Statements & Responses
Stewart's plans have garnered attention and support from various sectors of the film community. Her approach is characterized by a commitment to inclusivity and a rejection of the transactional nature of modern cinema. She aims to create a space that not only showcases films but also facilitates dialogue and collaboration among filmmakers and audiences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I didn’t realize I was looking for a theater until this place came to my attention. Then it was like a gunshot went off and the race was on. I ran toward it with everything I had,” — Kristen Stewart, Actor-Director
- “It’s an opportunity to make a space to gather and scheme and dream together.” — Kristen Stewart, Actor-Director
- “I see it as an antidote to all the corporate bullshit, a place that takes movie culture away from just buying and selling.” — Kristen Stewart, Actor-Director
- “There are so many beautiful details that need to be restored.” — Kristen Stewart, Actor-Director
Stewart's acquisition of the Highland Theatre represents a significant step toward revitalizing local cinema and fostering a community-centric approach to film in Los Angeles.
