West Wind Drive-in Theater – VEGAS UNFILTERED BLOG by Sam Novak

The World’s Most Unique Movie Theater Reveals Expansion Plans in Las Vegas

….and you can make it possible through a perks-packed campaign…

If you only visit Las Vegas from time to time, you might be surprised to learn that Sin City has a lot in common with Hollywood. Not only have dozens of blockbuster movies and televisions shows been filmed here, but there is a vibrant community of filmmakers and actors. Production studios benefit from our gorgeous cinematic locations, wealth of acting talent and the tech industries that call our valley “home”.

In addition, movie-going itself is a staple activity of our residents and visitors. Nearly every off-Strip hotel casino has a multiplex theater off the gambling floor. Our six-screen drive-in was one of only a few in the nation that were able to operate throughout last year’s closures. And during any normal year, Las Vegas attracts thousands of fans, celebrities and Hollywood heavy-hitters for conventions like Star Trek, Days of the Dead and CinemaCon (formerly known as ShoWest).

The most recent only-in-Vegas experience came when The 35 Cinema opened this February in downtown Las Vegas. I told you all about the super-cool retro cinema here, and profiled its owner/creator John Lohmann in this piece. The response to his venture was so overwhelming that Mr. Lohmann decided to expand it into a three-screen multi-plex, keeping the concept intact while adding even more unique elements.

The new location for The 35 Cinema wil be the sprawling, history-rich Commercial Center District World Village (or Commercial Center for short). It’s just a stone’s throw from Sahara Hotel and Westgate Las Vegas on East Sahara Avenue. Regular readers will recognize Commercial Center as the trendy location for businesses like a reborn Vickie’s Diner, ever-popular Lotus of Siam, The Vegas Room, The Nevada Room, Cineloggia Movie Artifact Museum, Hellbound Horror Collectibles and the wonderful Sci Fi Center of Las Vegas.

Relocating to Commercial Center is a no-brainer for The 35 Cinema. As a hotbed for fan-centric activities, this unique plaza will allow moviegoers to visit other movie-related businesses all in one visit. An expanded footprint for the Cinema makes it possible to run three movies at once (the former location was a single-screener) while providing hundreds of free parking spaces, on-property security, expanded hours, all-ages admission (not possible under their previous leasing agreement at Neonopolis), bar service, and lots more.

I so believe in and support this venture that I helped Lohmann to draft crowd-funding proposals to bring a bigger, better The 35 Cinema to Las Vegas. Here is the link to the IndieGogo campaign, which you can see in its entirety below:

The 35 Cinema: Where FILM comes BACK to the Cinema!

There’s never been a better time to rediscover movie-going. And Las Vegas has the ultimate way to experience the magic at The 35 Cinema….movies the way they were meant to be seen.

The 35 Cinema is the only multiplex theater of its kind in the world. What makes The 35 Cinema so special? It’s a retro movie house that presents timeless classics and cult favorites the way they were originally made and shown…with genuine 35 millimeter film and projectors.

There are only a handful of theaters running 35mm film in the US. But what make The 35 Cinema stand out above all the others is that it’s the only 100% revival theater in the world running exclusively on 100% film! We will not be playing anything after the year 2000!

Today’s modern megaplexes utilize a totally digital format, essentially transforming their screens into over-sized televisions. Computers and electronic devices generate sound and imagery that are often called “hyper-realistic”. While the goal of this technology is a perfect presentation, what’s lacking is charm, warmth, and the intimacy of an old-time cinema.

The 35 Cinema restores the original format of movies, once thought to be lost forever. Let the sounds and flickering of 35mm projectors whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure. Classics like The Wizard of Oz, Singing In The Rain, Alien, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Shining, Star Wars, Tron, A Nightmare On Elm Street…all of them were created using movie film, and nothing can replace the thrill of watching them that way.

The above video is not ours, but gives you an idea of the workings of a 35mm projector.

At The 35 Cinema, our meticulously-restored systems are a part of the show. Projectors are located within view of the auditorium, not hidden out of sight. Arrive early to watch our projectionist thread your movie through complex gears and pulleys, into a powerful lamp housing and onto massive take-up reels. Grab an ice-cold soft drink and a bag of the best popcorn in town, then settle in for vintage coming-attraction trailers before the landmark main feature.

Along with being the coolest retro theater in the world, The 35 Cinema is the ultimate gathering spot for cine-philes of all ages. We offer an ever-expanding schedule of fan events, celebrity appearances, themed festivals and all-day marathons. Rare props, movie memorabilia, and dozens of autographed photos take you back to when you first saw your favorites on the silver screen.

One of the many events we’ll be hosting will be our “Breakfast with the Toons” every Saturday and Sunday morning. You’ll be served a continental breakfast and get to watch two to three cartoon shorts before an animated feature! The fun part about it is it’ll be just like when you were a kid watching cartoons Saturday morning…you wont know what will be playing until it starts!

The 35 Cinema has so much to offer so…don’t miss this opportunity to be a part of the greatest cinematic experience of all time. The 35 Cinema – Movies The Way They Were Meant To Be Seen.

Here is a rough draft of the floor plan for our new location in “The Commercial Center” of Las Vegas!

As you can see above, the floor plan for our new location includes a large concession stand, liquor bar and three cinemas. We also have areas of the theater that will be able to host VIP celebrity guests, original movie props and so much more.

Media on “The 35 Cinema”

Here are just a few of the news broadcasts “The 35 Cinema” was featured on at our first location!

What the money will be used for

We already have some of the 35mm equipment in our possession, but we need more for additional auditoriums. We also require funding to secure our new Las Vegas location, construction, additional concession equipment and more.

As a contributor you can take advantage of our many Rewards:

Risks & Challenges

And what happens if The 35 Cinema doesn’t meet its goal? If we don’t succeed — It would be a sad day for 35mm, cinemas and Las Vegas as a whole. We’re relocating into a space 6 times the size of our first location and we’ll finally be family friendly (our first location was 21 and over due to the venue we were in.)

Our audience is growing and people are finding the magic of 35mm movies is still alive and we would love to keep it that way. You have to try our popcorn as well… It has been called “The Best Popcorn In Town!”

If we succeed with your help, we’ll immediately proceed with showing movies the way they were meant to be seen…on film and on a silver screen! We are The 35 Cinema…together!

To be a backer of The 35 Cinema and reap rewards like the opportunity to meet movie stars, hold private screenings and much more, click here.

‘All In Aviation’ Celebrates First Year In Custom-Built Facility With Open House Event

State-of-the-art aviation complex is a one-stop destination for first-time pilots, seasoned pros, and everyone in between…

Update 4/15/21 – All In Aviation will celebrate the first anniversary of its Henderson Executive Airport (HND) facility with a special event featuring aircraft on display, information on how to become a private pilot, and a parachute presentation by Cirrus Aircraft.

All In Aviation’s open house event will feature Cirrus Aircraft’s 8000th edition SR22T, only one of eight in the world, on display as the newest aircraft in AIA’s fleet. Guests can tour through the complex, including hangars, ground school classrooms, training rooms and a premier retail shop for pilots.

Aircraft on display include Cirrus Aircraft SR20’s and SR22’s, Cessna 172 Skyhawks, and the Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet. Cars on display will be provided by Jaguar and Land Rover Las Vegas.

All In Aviation’s Open House Event takes place Friday April 16th 2021 from 3pm to 7pm at 1456 Jet Stream Drive in Henderson, NV.

Last fall I told you about a once-in-a-lifetime experience I had in the air. As unbelievable as it may seem, I was able to taxi, take off, swoop, soar, and land a plane…all during my very first time behind the controls. It’s an incredible activity that just about anyone can participate in at All In Aviation, a dazzling flight school/airplane facility at Henderson Executive Airport (HND).

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

During my pre-flight tour that morning, All In Aviation‘s president Paul Sallach pointed out a large-scale facility that was under construction nearby. He told me that AIA would be moving there in the coming year, greatly expanding its size and adding several exclusive services. I returned last week to visit the newly-opened complex, and it’s even more dazzling than Sallach had described.

The brand new aviation complex is located in the shadow of the massive Las Vegas Raiders headquarters. This purpose-built structure is also home to Lone Mountain Aviation, AIA‘s business partner. Together, the two highly-respected businesses provide comprehensive services, training, education, instruction, and certification for pilots of every level…along with complete maintenance and hangar storage for their aircraft…and yours.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The partnership shares an airy, two-level lobby befitting an operation of this magnitude. Their reception desk is flanked by a Pilot Shop, the only retail space in the Valley dedicated to pilots, students, and flight enthusiasts. It carries authentic uniform apparel, handbooks, test preps, logbooks, headsets, mics, and other necessities. There are tongue-in-cheek novelty tees, polo shirts, and fun stuff for the kids, too.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Exit the Pilot Shop and you’ll notice a fleet of “paper airplanes” guiding you down the corridor into the heart of All In Aviation. The excitement begins here with 9,000 square feet of office space designed to prepare clients for a journey into the skies. Within are five training rooms, a lounge, and a full-sized classroom. Educational areas are equipped with Apple TV connectivity and electronics to support the budding pilot.

The only Cirrus Aircraft training partner in Southern Nevada, All In Aviation is a full-service aviation company offering flight training, pilot certifications, and aircraft rental, sales, management & storage. Dedicated to growing and developing more pilots, All In Aviation is a trusted partner for aviation training, from a student’s very first flight through some of the most advanced pilot certifications.

As a Cirrus Platinum Training Center, All In Aviation’s fleet includes some of the safest and most sophisticated aircraft on the market. The best-selling aircraft in the world, Cirrus airplanes are equipped with glass panels, air conditioning, and whole airframe parachute systems. Open to anyone, private pilot training is conducted in the air and in a classroom setting, with most students certified after completing 60-70 hours of instructed flying.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Above the classrooms, a second level boasts a spectacular conference hall. It features a custom-built table constructed atop an actual airplane wing. Impact-resistant glass windows provide an unobstructed view of the maintenance hangar directly below. This is the mechanical side of operations, courtesy of Lone Mountain Aviation president Kenny Scherando and his team. The maintenance hangar covers 22,000 square feet and includes the Lone Mountain Avionics shop, library for repair manuals, machine shop, and an extensive parts department.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Lone Mountain Aviation is the largest general aviation FAA Part 145 Certified Repair Station in Nevada. We ensure our technicians are uniquely well suited to maintaining, repairing, and modifying the most technically advanced aircraft flown today. With sophisticated tooling and continuous factory authorized training, our technicians are incomparably well equipped to provide the superior quality of service to you and your modern aircraft.

Lone Mountain Avionics is a full-service avionics shop under the Lone Mountain Aviation Repair Station. Lone Mountain Avionics is an approved dealer for Avidyne, Garmin, L-3 Communications, Aspen, Sandel, DAC International Avionics (Heads-Up Technology), and PS Engineering.

According to Sallach, the new facility involved over 500 workers and sub-contractors. Four years elapsed between conception and reality. Permanent positions were created for avionics technicians, maintenance, and support staff. Highly-respected Carl May was brought on for the new position of Director of Flight Operations, and an eight aircraft (a 2016 Cirrus SR22) was added to the ever-expanding AIA fleet.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Beyond the impressive headquarters are two massive rows of newly-constructed hangars. Nine of them are a 60-feet-wide “Executive Box Hangars”, able to accommodate mid-size private jets. Opposite of those are sixteen “T Hangars”, 49-feet wide and named after their shape. Staggered Tetris-style along the row, T Hangars store personal aircraft like the Cirrus one that I flew. All hangar rentals provide discounted refueling. Click HERE for details.

Sallach told me that all 25 hangars were leased before the project was finished and that they now have a waiting list. That’s no small feat, considering that construction (considered as an essential function) was completed after the pandemic arrived. The only thing that’s been postponed is their Grand Opening, and with luck, I’ll be on hand to share the celebration with them.

49209977_1338816899592113_8707621278640504832_o

One positive effect of the shutdown has been the opportunity to learn new things. If you’ve considered taking flying lessons, All In Aviation is making it easier for you to decide. With the skies nearly empty and commercial air travel considered an uncomfortable prospect for many, now’s the perfect time to schedule a flight lesson. AIA is offering discount packages that range from short regional flights in small Cirrus craft to remote destinations in an SF50 Vision Jet.

Many people are waiting until it’s ‘safe’ again to get back on a commercial flight. With the pandemic sweeping the world, hindering travel and making the idea of commercial travel a bit scary, learning to fly can be a great solution. Becoming a pilot allows people to choose when and who they fly with, and can provide for a safer environment for you and your loved ones. – Paul Sallach, President All In Aviation

“Learn To Fly” packages are as follows:

Bucket List Topper
Starting at $800
• Round trip flight lesson with a certified flight instructor in a Cirrus SR22
• Bring 2-3 guests (weight restricted)
• Fly to regional remote destinations such as Zion National Park or the Grand Canyon with views of Red Rock, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam and more

Goin’ Back to Cali
Starting at $2,000
• Round trip flight lesson with a certified flight instructor in a Cirrus SR22
• Bring 2-3 guests (weight restricted)
• Fly to California’s Central Coast region of San Luis Obispo

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
Starting at $2,000
• Round trip flight lesson with a certified flight instructor in a Cirrus SR22
• Bring 2-3 guests (weight restricted)
• Fly to the largest freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

Dealer’s Choice
Starting at $1,500 PER HOUR
• Round trip flight lesson with a certified flight instructor in a Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet
• Bring 4-5 guests (weight restricted)
• Fly to any of our regional remote destinations that are also offered in the Cirrus SR22
• Stop for lunch at the destination

All In Aviation is located at 1456 Jet Stream Drive in Henderson, Nevada. Call 702.ALL.IN22 for more information. Their second location is at North Las Vegas Airport (VGT), 2830 N Rancho Drive, near the West Wind Drive-In Theater.

Photos: Sam Novak, All In Aviation, Lone Mountain Aviation, Gina Yager

John Lohmann: Dream Master of ‘The 35 Cinema’

Film enthusiast achieves lifelong desire to launch a Revival Movie House…

“To sleep, perchance to dream… for in this sleep what dreams may come…” – William Shakespeare

Rallying cries to never give up on your dreams – they’re the essence of nearly every high school graduation speech ever made. Yet when we venture forth into the real world, how many of us forget those goals that shaped our youth? Las Vegas resident John Lohmann never set his dream aside. Now, after the better part of four decades, it’s finally become a reality with The 35 Cinema.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Mr. Lohmann and I are kindred spirits of a sort. We both have a passion for fantasy, horror and sci-fi films of the 70’s and 80’s. Our career paths somewhat intersected, as we were both movie theater managers who worked on marketing projects for major Hollywood releases. My tenure in the film exhibition industry was short, though, and John continues to pursue his passion.

This week, John took a break from the challenges of running his retro-cool revival movie house to discuss his background with me. The conversation ended when he had to thread up a 35mm print of the 1979 classic ALIEN for a 6 pm showing. In that brief time, John shared some incredible memories, a stunning celebrity encounter, and an unusually difficult path to opening the doors of The 35 Cinema.

A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987)

John’s career in movie theater operations began at the age of sixteen. His first recollection of threading a movie onto the massive projection system (an art unto itself) was for the 1987 hit A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors. It’s unlikely that the teenager envisioned one day working side by side in his own theater with actress Lisa Wilcox. Ms. Wilcox is The 35 Cinema‘s manager and the “final girl” from both Elm Street Part 4: The Dream Master and Part 5: The Dream Child.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

As a youngster, Lohmann was entranced by the mechanics of movie projection. He had his own projector and used to charge his friend five cents to watch copies of Ken Films, short Super-8 editions sold for home use through the pre-VCR era of the 70’s. The reels were widely available at K-Mart (this writer had his own collection, a rear-projection viewer and an editing station).

In the 90’s, the movie enthusiast covered a lot of ground. He worked in various capacities for AMC Theaters, Regal, Globe, and the Century brand, which operates Cinemark theaters in the Las Vegas valley. He also branched out into attractions at Knott’s Berry Farm and Disney parks.

It’s was John’s passion for the movie-going experience that served him well in marketing. He received the highest levels of recognition and won prestigious accolades (including the Sid Grauman Award), for his promotions of such varied titles as The Peacemaker (with Nicole Kidman and George Clooney), Deep Impact, family films The Rugrats Movie, its sequel Rugrats In Paris, Barnie’s Big Adventure, Disney hits Mulan and Hercules…and a low-profile sleeper called TITANIC.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Perhaps John’s most incredible experience was when he attended a pre-release screening of the 1998 fantasy What Dreams May Come. A difficult-to-watch, emotional exploration of death and the afterlife, the film presented a considerable challenge to its marketing team. Lohmann was invited to attend an advance screening in order to serve as a consultant and advisor for marketing.

The humbled guest entered the theater along with the movie’s creative team. He noticed that each seat came supplied with a box of tissues. If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll understand why.

When the lights came up, John was dabbing his eyes with tissues when he felt a pair of hands grip his shoulders from behind. Then an unmistakable voice asked “What did you think?”. Spinning around, the sobbing cinephile found himself face to face with the film’s star, Robin Williams.

Robin Williams and costar Annabella Sciorra…

The two gentlemen spent the better part of the next three hours discussing the emotionally-complex feature. As John recounted, Williams was absolutely thrilled by the project. “I love comedy, but acting is what I really want to do” the legendary entertainer proclaimed.

Lohmann came up with a few ideas to promote the drama, which garnered over $75 million at the box office. As for Williams’ dramatic career, it continued to expand with wildly diverse roles in Bicentennial Man, Patch Adams, the frightening One Hour Photo and Christopher Nolan‘s Insomnia.

While immersed in the worlds of film marketing, theme park entertainment, and becoming involved in animation art collecting, the Anaheim native was always looking for the perfect place to open his own revival movie theater. The search stretched through roughly four decades. At one point, Lohmann thought he’d finally found the perfect spot, a four-plex that had been abandoned for a decade. It was in poor shape, smelled badly, and had become a refuge for the homeless.

Abandoned cineplexes await rebirth in a post-pandemic world…

Nevertheless, the cavernous grand lobby of the movie house was too gorgeous to ignore. Lohmann was all set to commit when a second-run (discount) chain swooped in to snatch it. Sadly, their endeavor lasted only a few months, but by that time, John had moved on. Yet he never stopped looking for the perfect venue.

Ira Heiden (left) in Elvira, Mistress of the Dark…

In the years since that first showing of Nightmare On Elm Street 3: The Dream Warriors, the horror franchise has become a permanent part of Lohmann’s life. He personally befriended most of the movie’s cast, and even became best buddies with actor Ira Heiden, who played Will Stanton aka “Wizard Master”.

Elm Street 3 cast recreates iconic “Dream Warriors” photo in 2017

Fast forward to the current decade. As of 2017, virtually every theater has switched to digital equipment. Traditional projection systems were being discarded and replaced around the world. John happened upon a working set-up at Long Beach State University that was in jeopardy. After a little back-and-forth with those in charge, he was given a matter of hours to remove it from the campus.

For the next few years, this marvelous monster resided in a breezeway of its new owner’s California home, covered by a tarp and patiently waiting for an eventual return to usefulness. It joined John’s other treasure, a rare stereo 16mm system that came from a defunct Jerry Lewis Cinemas location in Georgia.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Eventually, John packed up his dreams and possessions (and of course, those two beloved projectors) and relocated to Las Vegas. They can now be found at The 35 Cinema inside The Nerd, a heavily-themed downtown fun spot for adults. You can read all about The 35 Cinema right here in this Vegas Unfiltered Blog companion piece.

It would be a disservice to the efforts of John and his team to close this piece with “they all lived happily ever after”. Getting that first movie onto the screen was anything but easy. The venue should have opened nearly a year ago, but a series of obstacles kept falling into its path. And that’s not even factoring in the pandemic.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The 35 Cinema debuted in February 2021, and even now, difficulties arise. A highly-anticipated booking of 1977’s original STAR WARS promised to put hundreds of fans into the plush new seats, but a delivery problem forced the owner to remove it from the schedule. Lohmann is working to find a more reliable source for quality vintage titles on 35mm film, and each week provides new opportunities to challenge the boyishly handsome businessman.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Fortunately, our city is overflowing with enthusiastic moviegoers. Thousands have flocked in the past year to West Wind drive-in for classic hits (albeit in digital form) and William Powell‘s The Sci-Fi Center in historic Commercial Plaza enjoys huge turnouts for drive-in style “Carpool Cinema” screenings of older titles.

Now that Elm Street actress Lisa Wilcox is managing The 35 Cinema, its owner’s immersion into the dream world of Freddy Krueger is complete. And with our supportive community to rally around the newest Las Vegas cinema experience, it’s only a matter of time before ambitious John Lohmann, an honorary member of the Elm Street gang, ascends from “Dream Warrior” to the “Dream Master” of his own realm.

Update 4/28/21 -Hello everyone. First off wanna thank all of our fans and loyal customers. This past Sunday we pulled out of The Nerd so we could move into a more family friendly venue. We’ll be posting soon our new location which will be 5 times larger, more screens, open to all ages, easier to access and so more. We hope The Nerd well but we could not survive at that venue. Stay posted for updates on the new location that we hope to be open as soon as possible. – John Lohmann, The 35 Cinema

Photos: Sam Novak, John Lohmann, The 35 Cinema, The Sci-Fi Center (William Powell). Elm Street 3 cast reunion photo by Rodney Eastman

‘JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE’ Brings Snowy Cheer to Sin City

Holiday Drive-through Attraction Is A Labor of Love for COVID-impacted Artists…

While other cities were scrambling to adjust to life during a pandemic, Sin City wasted no time in launching COVID-safe alternatives. We already had drive-through wedding chapels and West Wind drive-in movie theater. Then came outdoor fitness and dance classes with Sin City celebrities. We even got to experience Jennifer Romas’ SEXXY revue and drag shows from the comfort of our vehicles. Now you can pack friends and family into the car and head to Santa’s workshop for JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE.

Some of you might be familiar with GLITTERING LIGHTS, the annual attraction at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Now in its 20th year, the massive drive-through celebration is the largest of its kind in the Valley. It’s also about as far from the Strip as you can get while still being in Las Vegas.

JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE is conveniently located at 2330 Industrial Road, just a snowball’s throw from Wynn/Encore under the watchful gaze of the ~~Stratosphere~~ The STRAT tower. During the rest of the year, the venue is known as The Industrial Event Space, an indoor-outdoor venue for special functions.

While it may lack the scope of its older brother, JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE makes up for it for with plenty of charm and good cheer. You’ll know right away when you’re greeted at the gate by one of Santa’s friendly helpers. The happy elf will safely scan your pre-purchased admission code and guide you through the procedures while all of your party remain inside.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

A mask is required if/when you interact with any of the cast members, and your windows should remain up when possible. You’ll be given a radio station to tune to, which syncs seasonal classics with the lights of the attraction. Once inside, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase hot cocoa and snacks (very reasonably priced, by the way) before proceeding.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

The journey begins with a super-cool recreation of the Northern Lights. Once you pass through the garland entrance, you’ll enter the “Path Of Lights”, festooned with glittering orbs, twinkling tunnels and a flurry of “snow”.

Along the way you’ll encounter live dancing elves, whimsical projections, over 100,000 lights, more than 380 strands and over 100 holiday fixtures. Everything has been designed and handmade by more than 30 local creative professionals who’ve been impacted by the events of this year.

The centerpiece of JOURNEY is a computer-programmed “mega tree” which “dances” and blinks to holiday tunes. But of course everything leads to Santa’s Workshop, where you can visit with the big guy himself. Since the original Mr. Christmas is required to maintain distance this year, there won’t be any visits to his lap. But he’ll definitely chat it up and take notes for his gift-giving list.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

“Journey to the North Pole” can be experienced nightly from 5 to 10pm at the INDUSTRIAL event space, located at 2330 South Industrial Road, through Sunday, Jan. 3. Advance tickets are required and start at $20. Purchase at northpolelv.com/tickets. “Journey to the North Pole” is a co-production of Josh Abelson (the INDUSTRIAL event space), Emo Palumbo (Tag Team Productions) and Brian Rogerson (Sin City Scenic).

Photos: Sam Novak

MAYA CINEMAS Brings Unique Entertainment to North Las Vegas

Unconventional theater chain favors quirky gems over mainstream hits…

With so little live entertainment currently available in Las Vegas, some of us who yearn for something to do have been rediscovering the cinemas. Alas, the only apparent winner from a business perspective has been West Wind Las Vegas drive-in, which I’ve reported on several times. But a gorgeous new indoor multiplex on the north side is shaking things up. And it’s definitely worth a visit.

As an avid movie buff (and former manager for AMC Theaters) who attends film screenings at least three times per week, it pains me to admit that the expansion of MAYA Cinemas to Las Vegas escaped me. The high-tech complex began operations in early 2019, but was apparently overshadowed by the hype surrounding downtown’s ECLIPSE Theaters. That pricey restaurant/bar/cinema hybrid reportedly failed to connect with movie-goers, and remains dark for the eight month. Expensive $18 movie tickets certainly didn’t help.

MAYA Cinemas, on the other hand, is a more economical alternative. While their ticket prices are in line with bigger brands like Regal and Cinemark, snack prices are remarkably reasonable. For instance, a large drink/popcorn combo runs $10 at MAYA, compared to over $16 at AMC Town Square. And before you complain about snack prices, keep in mind that food and beverage sales are what keep your local movie house in business, not ticket sales. The vast percentage of your admission price goes back to the studios who make the movies. So…no concession sales equals no movie theater. Period.

MAYA Cinemas is based in California. The Las Vegas location is their first in Nevada. It’s only a few minutes from the NEON Museum, and next to old-time locals casinos Silver Nugget and Jerry’s Nugget. While the location might seem puzzling to some, it was deliberately chosen in keeping with the company’s mission statement.

Maya Cinemas was chartered in 2000 with a mission to develop, build, own and operate modern, first-run, megaplex movie theaters in under-served, family oriented, Latino-dominant communities. In January 2019, Maya Cinemas North Las Vegas opened its doors bringing state-of-the-art movie-going to an area of Las Vegas seeing rapid growth of new business.

Maya Cinemas offers first-run Hollywood movies in high-end theaters focused on quality of design, state-of-the-art film presentation technology, and superior customer service.

It’s hard to downplay the visual appeal of MAYA Cinemas N. Las Vegas. The massive modern structure features a spacious parking lot that’s landscaped beautifully with thoughtful accent lighting. Inside, touchscreen podiums allow you to reserve your tickets, or you can pre-order them online. All seats are assigned, and physical distancing protocols are automatically implemented.

An enormous lobby houses Energi Gaming arcade, a dining area, and Maya Cantina, which serves alcoholic beverages that you can take into the auditorium. Snacks, meals, and drinks can be ordered via the MAYA Cinemas App, which also includes MAYA Rewards loyalty program. Sign up to receive a free small popcorn and accrue points towards future discounts. You’ll be eligible for periodic email deals, too.

Throughout the week, you can take advantage of discounts like “Date Night Mondays”, “Family Day Tuesdays”, and “Senior Day Wednesdays”. Specially-scheduled presentations are targeted towards guests with sensory sensitivities, and the theater is available for private rentals and birthday parties.

The wonderful design of MAYA Cinemas continues into the corridors and auditoriums, which are decorated with mellow earth tones and vibrant yellows. Plush electronic recliner seats are equipped with dining tables that easily swing into position and back out of the way. There is ample spacing between rows, once again ideal for physical distancing. Auditoriums are thoroughly sanitized between each showtime, and extra precautions are regularly implemented by the staff to protect your health.

If you’re a techie, you’ll appreciate the presence of DOLBY ATMOS sound systems, D-BOX motion seats (in select auditoriums), and MPX, Maya’s own large-screen premium format.

MPX is the most immersive movie experience yet! Be engulfed in our large silver screen with the clearest and brightest 2D and 3D images from our projection technology. And hear every detail in amazing clarity with a true 360-degree sound! MPX clarity of sound effects is phenomenal and delivers total immersion into the film.

Attention to detail is even evident in MAYA Cinemas restroom facilities. Family restrooms are ideal for those with small children or special needs. There are environmentally-friendly waterless fixtures for the gentlemen, and all-in-one sinks have high-speed blade dryers that instantly dry hands without paper towel waste or mess.

The best thing about MAYA Cinemas, aside from the unbelievably-delicious popcorn, is their unique approach to programming. As I mentioned in yesterday’s article on the release of STEALING CHAPLAIN, theaters have been impacted by a drought of Hollywood product. Of course, this was caused by the pandemic that shut down all film and television production this year. In place of new titles, theaters have been relying on classics, mostly from the 80s, with a few major studio releases peppered in.

MAYA Cinemas has taken that business model one step further. They’re featuring low-budget indies, urban-appeal thrillers, film festival favs, and genre-busters that might have otherwise gone straight to video. But let’s face facts…no matter how high-end your home system is, nothing beats the massive screens, booming sound, delicious smells, mouth-watering tastes, and captivating atmosphere of a real movie house.

My first visit to MAYA Las Vegas was for LOVE AND MONSTERS, a critically-acclaimed (90% on Rotten Tomatoes) post-apocalyptic romantic adventure starring Dylan O’Brien of the MAZE RUNNER trilogy. Also showing were SPELL, a voodoo chiller featuring an African-American cast, JUNGLELAND, a boxing drama with SONS OF ANARCHY‘s Charlie Hunnam, and THE INFORMER with Joel Kinnaman. None of these titles are playing anywhere else in the city.

Previous discoveries include SAVE YOURSELVES, a riotous comedy of two city-slickers stranded in a rustic cabin during an alien invasion. Horror film favorites Tobin Bell (SAW) and Lin Shaye (INSIDIOUS) teamed up for THE CALL, a nail-biter from the creator of FINAL DESTINATION. Coming soon are SPIRAL, the latest in the SAW franchise, and MURDER IN THE WOODS with Danny Trejo (MACHETE).

Of course, with over a dozen auditoriums to fill, major Hollywood releases like HONEST THIEF and older classics get their fair share of screen time. Ongoing series include family favorites like THE WIZARD OF OZ and BACK TO THE FUTURE, musicals like GREASE and FOOTLOOSE, and the entire HARRY POTTER series.

Retro titles are only $3.00 for adults and $1.00 for children, so pack up the kids and allow them to experience TOY STORY, CHRISTMAS VACATION and more on the big screen for the first time. It’s time to get out of the house and rediscover the pleasures of going to the movies.

MAYA Cinemas Las Vegas is located at 2195 North Las Vegas Boulevard North Las Vegas, NV 89030. Click here for showtimes, ticket prices and more information.

Photos: Sam Novak

‘Stealing Chaplain’ – Las Vegas Indie Headed for the Big Screen

Locally-produced comedy benefits from sHortage of Hollywood theatrical releases…

“Keep digging. Otherwise the next grave we’re digging is our own”. So says ‘Cal’, a con man desperate to stay alive while embroiled in a daring Las Vegas scam. That’s the premise of STEALING CHAPLAIN, a brand-new comedy filmed on location in Sin City.

STEALING CHAPLAIN is an independent production that’s about to hit big screens across the country. It’s being released at a time when theater chains are starving for new titles. For local producer Ken Bressers of Dystopian Films, this came as a stroke of luck, one that he swiftly pounced upon.

After the relative failure of director Christopher Nolan’s expensive (and downright awful, IMHO) TENET on U.S. screens, tentpole features like Pixar’s SOUL, Disney’s MULAN remake, WONDER WOMAN 84 and the latest James Bond film have either been postponed or diverted to streaming services. As a result, chains like AMC, Cinemark and Regal have relied on running retro classic titles…or have shut down altogether.

“Knowing we’ve got a quality movie ready to deliver and that theaters are drying up, we approached several theater chains directly, and they loved the idea” said Bressers. “Beginning November 13, we will be opening in over a hundred movie theaters across six major chains, and we’re still in talks with several others.” Stealing Chaplain is currently in theatrical release in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Stealing Chaplin is a comic caper focused on two British con men who dig up and ransom the corpse of legendary comic actor Charlie Chaplin. It’s inspired by the true story of a pair of crooks actually exhuming and stealing the body of the silent comedy star. Ken oversaw a production also starring The Sopranos star Al Sapienza and The Patriot actor Peter Woodward.

Eagle-eyed viewers will recognize a number of local performers who are featured in Stealing Chaplain. It even includes a cameo appearance from “Mr. Las Vegas” himself, Wayne Newton. Dani Elizabeth, fiance of comedic magician Murray SawChuck, is the popular emcee of CRAZY GIRLS at Planet Hollywood. Handsome Brent Barret of PHANTOM – The Las Vegas Spectacular (and former entertainment director for THE VEGAS ROOM) is on hand, as is sultry Cheryl Prater, a frequent host and guest at ROCKING COMEDY SHOW with Jay Bird.

Cheryl Prater has been in numerous Vegas-centric films and TV series

It was at a Halloween day private screening of the 1984 classic Nightmare on Elm Street (hosted by Jay) that Cheryl Prater first told me the STEALING CHAPLAIN news. She was undoubtedly excited by the chance to reach a large-scale audience in her latest role. In a year filled with endless bad news, this was a solid reason for cast, crew and friends to celebrate.

Bressers echoed those sentiments: “If Charlie Chaplin taught us anything; it was that laughing in times of difficulty sometimes is the best medicine. In light of everything going on in the world at the moment, we are very pleased to be partnering with Cinemark Theatres, Marcus Theatres, Malco, Starlights, and more to deliver Stealing Chaplin to an audience in need of an escape!”

Escaping to movie theaters has long been a popular Las Vegas pastime. Fremont Street’s historic El Portal Theater, built in the 1920s, was the city’s very first air-conditioned structure. Casinos throughout the valley have multi-screen theaters under their roofs, and the West Wind 6 Drive-in is filled with hundreds of cars every evening.

Several local movie producers and directors have turned Las Vegas into their own private Hollywood. Directors Joe Lujan and brothers Sonny and Michael Mahal use local talent and locations for outrageous cult horror films like Art of the Dead, Bus Party to Hell and the Immortal Wars franchise. Along with Sharknado actress Tara Reid, their films feature handsome future stars like Mark Justice, Ben Stobber, and burlesque performer Ronnie Nanos.

Even Gregory Popovich of David Saxe‘s POPOVICH COMEDY PET THEATER got bit by the movie-making bug. His endearing “Popovich and the Voice of the Fabled American West” had an exclusive run at Brenden Theaters at The Palms Casino Hotel. So, it’s no surprise that Stealing Chaplain benefits from the talent of many Las Vegas entertainers.

With all of the new precautions that have been standardized to make your movie-going experience safe and enjoyable, there’s no better time to head out and experience a new film. Enjoy this trailer for STEALING CHAPLAIN and see it on theater screens beginning November 13th. Visit the official Facebook page for more information and showtimes.

October Horror-Fest at Las Vegas Drive-in Theater

Retro outdoor theater screens dozens of spooky comedies, bloody shockers and romantic chillers for safe Halloween fun…

The effort to successfully reopen indoor theaters has been such a struggle that eleven movie theaters in the Las Vegas valley closed once more this month. Some, like Eclipse Theaters in the downtown area and Tropicana Cinemas, a second-run bargain house, never unlocked their doors. Nevertheless, West Wind Drive-ins have been thriving!

West Wind Las Vegas is one of seven in California and Nevada operated by their parent company. I told you about this six-screen outdoor theater here. With budget-friendly prices on tickets and snacks, you can pack up the family (or a hot date) into your car and have a fun night out without breaking the bank. Even better, physical distancing is NEVER a concern at a drive-in, since you’re in control of your environment. You don’t have to interact with anyone if you choose not to (online ticketing is coming soon).

Modern conveniences like digital picture and stereo FM sound enhance the movie-going experience. Snacks and meals can be ordered from your smartphone for quick pick-up at the concession stand. You can smoke, bring your own food, turn up the volume as loud as you like on your car’s sound system and chat about the movie if you want to. It’s your own private universe under the stars.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

All of those advantages are why the drive-in theater has surged in popularity this year. Not only has the retro concept become a place to rediscover classics on the big screen, but locations around the country have been showing new concerts and hosted comedy and drag shows. Even Jennifer Romas and the cast of Westgate’s SEXXY revue performed drive-in shows this summer at a special location.

COVID-19 is still affecting seasonal activities like sporting events and holiday parties. Depending on your neighborhood, even trick-or-treat might not happen. But nothing is tastier than freshly-buttered movie popcorn, and you can still dress the kids (or yourself) in costumes to see a great Halloween hit, double-feature, or even a trilogy….all for one low price.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

From now through October 31st, West Wind is lighting up their six massive screen with dozens of horror titles. From franchise hits of the 80’s to the latest spooky titles. there’s something for EVERYONE.

Click here for the latest schedule, and check back often.

Family-friendly Spookers –

Romantic Vampire Films –

Franchise Horror Films –

Tim Burton Favorites –

John Carpenter Classics –

Low-Budget Shockers –

Big-Budget Titles –

Groundbreaking Classics –

There are plenty more films to be added to the list, and the festival runs through Halloween night. Click here for updates, and check back often.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

West Wind Las Vegas Drive-in Theater is open year-round, rain or shine. They’re located at 4150 West Carey Avenue, northwest of downtown. Call (702) 646-3565 OR (702) 647-1379 for more information.