Where the owner is as entertaining as the films
New Orleans has a rich history of cinema. In 1896, the first movie house in the United States, Vitascope Hall, opened on Canal Street. Admission was ten cents. For an extra ten cents, you could peek into the booth to watch the projectionist, and for another dime you could buy a frame of discarded film. Imagine what those frames would be worth today.
A bit of a less historic (it opened in 1914) but honored spot is the Prytania Theatre, the oldest New Orleans movie house still in operation and the only single-screen theater remaining in Louisiana. The theater began as an outdoor venue, where patrons literally received a “rain check” if it rained. The Prytania survived a devastating fire in 1926, which allowed for elaborate improvements during the restoration, like a red-velvet-and-polished-brass lobby, a new façade, and a state-of-the-art Hillgreen-Lane organ (this was the silent film era, when the accompanying organ occupied a pivotal role).
Info
Address 5339 Prytania Street, New Orleans, LA 70115, +1 504.891.2787, www.prytaniatheatreneworleans.com | Hours Check website for screening schedule| Tip At the opposite end of the movie-going experience are the Theatres at Canal Place (333 Canal St, 3rd floor), located in an upscale mall. Here you can watch current blockbusters from VIP plush leather motorized recliners; every one has a personal table, drink holder, and call button for in-seat food and cocktail service throughout the show.
The Prytania now shows “talkies” using Sony Digital 4K projection and Dolby Digital surround sound. They screen first-run releases and also premiere movies starring or made by New Orleanians. Every year, before the Academy Awards, they play nominated films, even obscure ones, and host an annual Oscar party.
But the absolute treasure of the Prytania is owner Rene Brunet Jr. Now in his 90s, he no longer greets every customer at the door. His son Robert has taken over that job. But Rene is easy to spot inside, with his signature suit and movie-themed tie. It’s been said that after paying admission, your most entertaining evening can be spent by skipping the movie and talking to Rene instead. He is a historian of grand movie palaces and author of a book about movie theaters in New Orleans. Rene’s love for the Prytania shines through. He once said about his chosen career: “I feel like I’m host to a party every day and every night.”
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