As New Jersey’s film and television industry continues to grow, local movie theaters are finding new ways to connect audiences with productions being made across the state.
On the latest episode of Garden State Greenlight, Doreen Sayegh, owner of the Cranford Theater and a board member of the Garden State Film Festival, joins ROI-NJ Multimedia Journalist Thomas Philip to discuss the changing movie theater business, the importance of the communal moviegoing experience and the connection between theaters and New Jersey’s growing film industry.
Sayegh grew up in the movie theater business, working alongside her family before reopening the Cranford Theater in 2019 after it had been abandoned.
Just four months after reopening, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the theater to close. Sayegh responded by offering takeout concessions and temporary drive-in screenings before reopening the theater in 2021.
Sayegh discusses how streaming and shorter theatrical windows have changed the industry while emphasizing that theaters can offer audiences something they cannot get at home: a shared experience.
The Cranford Theater has also expanded beyond traditional movie screenings, hosting comedy shows, film festivals, independent filmmaker screenings, fundraisers and other community events.
Sayegh sees an opportunity for local theaters to play a larger role in New Jersey’s film production boom by showcasing movies filmed in the state. She also discusses how productions can benefit local communities by bringing cast and crew members into restaurants, shops and other businesses.
Looking ahead, Sayegh believes theaters must increasingly become destinations by creating memorable experiences and giving audiences reasons to leave their homes.
Listen to the full conversation with Doreen Sayegh on the latest episode of Garden State Greenlight.
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