As moviegoers in Denver increasingly seek alternatives to blockbusters and franchise films, the quest for unique cinematic experiences continues.
Residents like Susan Green have voiced their concerns about the limited variety available in local theaters. “I noticed that they all show the same blockbusters and I have to go to see my family in New York or Chicago or the Bay Area to see movies that I can’t see in Denver,” she expressed.
In search of insights, we turned to Keith Garcia, artistic director of the independent Sie FilmCenter, who elaborated on the situation surrounding movie theaters in Denver.
Denver is categorized as a “C market” in the film industry, which sets it apart from “A markets” like New York and Los Angeles. “There are so many films coming out these days… The movie studios and distributors think that there are more people in those cities who want to see movies all the time,” Garcia explained.
This designation affects the types of films that are showcased in the city. Due to its smaller urban population compared to larger metropolitan areas, Denver has fewer screenings of independent or foreign films that often debut in big markets.
Garcia pointed out that the studios frequently launch films in these A markets first. They tend to conduct brief theatrical runs before shifting their focus to streaming or home video sales, leaving smaller markets like Denver with limited options.
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered movie-watching habits, impacting the box office and movie theater programming.
Despite the industry’s gradual recovery, attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels, as many moviegoers have formed a preference for streaming content from the comfort of their homes. A report by Advan Research highlights the ongoing challenges theaters face, including lingering consumer apprehension about crowded indoor environments.
Given this backdrop, theaters have become increasingly focused on profitability, further complicating the situation for independent films seeking audiences.
When looking into the distinctions between various types of theaters, the differences become evident.
Major chains like AMC Theatres, Regal Cinemas, and Cinemark often find themselves in a situation where they have excess screen time but aren’t always able to fill it with diverse content.
Garcia described this issue as a “good problem” for corporate multiplexes, which means they might resort to showcasing independent films simply to fill their schedules.
The limited marketing for these sporadic screenings can leave audiences unaware that such films are even playing. Garcia notes that oftentimes, potential viewers might stumble upon a screening when attending a blockbuster and decide to check it out on a whim.
Unfortunately, these independent films frequently vanish from the lineup within a week. “If you’re really looking for some of these smaller films, they may show up at a multiplex, but they’re not being handled with any care or any real hope that people will see them,” Garcia said.
In contrast, the Sie FilmCenter fills a unique niche within Denver’s film landscape as the only independent movie theater in the area.
Unlike corporate theaters that rely on profit-driven algorithms for programming, the Sie FilmCenter has a distinct mission. “We like to take risks… to keep it exciting and give opportunities, as much as we can, to as many of these films,” Garcia emphasized.
By monitoring popular films in larger markets, the Sie FilmCenter aims to bring engaging content to Denver audiences, reflecting a commitment to diversity in cinema that is often overlooked by corporate chains.
As cinephiles in Denver continue to seek alternatives to mainstream films, the future remains uncertain. With the film industry evolving, patrons hope for a more vibrant movie theater experience that highlights lesser-known projects alongside the ever-present blockbusters.
In a landscape where the preferences of audiences are shifting, it remains vital for independent theaters like the Sie FilmCenter to thrive and provide Colorado residents with the diverse selection they crave.
image source from：https://www.cpr.org/2025/06/16/where-to-watch-indie-films-in-denver/
