The last few years have been tough for our movie theaters.

Starting in the late 20-teens, as streaming really took off, movie theaters started to see a drop in attendance.  Many movies were being released to streaming only a few days after they hit the theaters.  Additionally, people began to care less about the big screen (and big sound) experience.  Many were just as happy watching a movie on their TV or, in some cases, even on their tiny phone screens.

Then, in 2020, most theaters were forced to close to help prevent the spread of the virus.

In most cases, the theaters that were forced to close during the pandemic did reopen, but it was not the same.

Now, it looks like New England is losing another movie theater.

The Mountain Valley Mall Cinema in North Conway, New Hampshire

According to a post on the Mountain Valley Mall Cinemas Facebook page, the theater, which has served the White Mountains of New Hampshire for three decades, will be closing permanently.

While no reason was given for the closure, residents of the area have said that it is due to a drop in attendance and the difficulties in finding enough employees.

At one time, the area was home to a trio of great movie theaters: the classic Majestic Theater in Conway Village, the North Conway Twin in North Conway Village, and the Mountain Valley Mall Cinemas in North Conway.

Once the Mountain Valley Mall Cinemas closes, the Magic Lantern in Bridgton will be the closest movie theater.

Locals and visitors have been sharing their memories of the cinemas on the theater's Facebook post.

Matt said:

My first movie here was in 2007 (ratatouille). My parents and I ate at panda garden before going we watched the movie. From watching panda garden close to JCP and now the theater :(( . I hope they something nice with it
Jayne commented:
This is sad. We went to see Barbie, Willy Wonka & Beetlejuice most recently. I remember going to see Snow White & Days of Thunder as a kid. Definitely going to miss the Theater
Basil said:
Made great childhood memories here so sad to see it go !
As a former resident of Mount Washington Valley, I have many fond memories of the theater.  Some of the movies I saw at the theater were great (Avatar, Gravity), some not so much (2012, Indiana Jones & The Kingdom of the Crystal Skull).  But, it is not really about the movies, is it?  It's about the experience.
 We are definitely sad to hear of the theater's closing.

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