Oscar-nominated actor Kristen Stewart has acquired the historic Highland Theatre in Los Angeles, with ambitious plans to transform the shuttered venue into a vibrant community hub. The Spencer star revealed her vision to create "something for the community" rather than an exclusive space for Hollywood elites, marking a significant personal investment in preserving cinematic heritage.
A Vision for Community Gathering
Stewart confirmed the purchase to Architectural Digest, expressing particular fascination with "broken-down old theatres" that hold historical significance. "I didn't realise I was looking for a theatre until this place came to my attention," Stewart explained. "Then it was like a gunshot went off and the race was on. I ran toward it with everything I had." Her enthusiasm underscores a deep commitment to cultural preservation beyond her acting career.
The actor envisions the restored theatre as "an opportunity to make a space to gather and scheme and dream together," describing the project as "creating a new school and restructuring our processes, finding a better way forward." She emphasised the family-oriented nature of her plans, stating: "We want to make it a family affair, something for the community. It's not just for pretentious Hollywood cinephiles."
Countering Corporate Influence
Stewart positioned her venture as a deliberate alternative to commercial cinema operations, calling it "an antidote to all the corporate bulls***, a place that takes movie culture away from just buying and selling." She believes there exists "a huge desire and craving for what this kind of space can offer" - suggesting audiences yearn for more authentic, community-focused cinematic experiences.
Historic Venue's Century-Long Journey
The Highland Theatre represents a significant piece of Los Angeles cultural history, having opened its doors in 1925 under architect Lewis Arthur Smith. Originally operating as a vaudeville and silent-film house, the venue adapted to changing times by transitioning to mainstream releases before being subdivided into a triplex during the 1980s.
Previous owner Dan Akarakian revealed to the Los Angeles Times in March 2024 that post-pandemic recovery proved impossible, forcing the permanent closure on 29 February 2024 - just six days before what would have been the theatre's 99th anniversary. Final screenings included Madame Web and Bob Marley: One Love, marking the end of an era for the historic venue.
Restoration Challenges and Opportunities
Stewart acknowledged the substantial restoration work required, noting "so many beautiful details that need to be restored" within the aging structure. Her approach balances historical preservation with contemporary relevance: "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 neighbourhood and something new to the whole LA film community."
Joining Cinema Preservation Movement
Stewart's acquisition places her among notable film figures actively preserving Los Angeles' cinematic landmarks. Quentin Tarantino previously purchased the New Beverly Cinema in 2007 and the Vista Theatre in 2021, telling Deadline in 2014 he acquired the former specifically to prevent commercial multiplex conversion. Similarly, the Village Theatre in Westwood was purchased in 2022 by an investor group including Jason Reitman, Steven Spielberg, and Bradley Cooper amid redevelopment concerns.
Broader Industry Context
While promoting her directorial debut The Chronology of Water, Stewart addressed broader industry concerns, expressing apprehension about working in the United States during potential future political administrations. She described feeling unable to "work freely" in the US under certain conditions, though maintained: "I don't want to give up completely. I'd like to make movies in Europe and then shove them down the throat of the American people."
This theatrical preservation project represents Stewart's tangible commitment to fostering creative communities despite industry challenges, transforming a historic venue into what she hopes will become a cherished gathering space for Los Angeles residents and film enthusiasts alike.
